Planting and caring for Flowering tobacco
Probably the most robust continuous bloomers
Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana) is truly incredible: probably the most robust plants grow from the finest seeds. I use a seed chute when growing them, as the seeds are far too fine for my fingers. Once the ornamental tobacco starts to flower, there is little that can stop it. It tolerates partial shade as well as occasional drought and flowers for months, even if faded plants are not regularly pruned. Its neutral colours make it the perfect companion flower in bouquets.
THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTS IN BRIEF
- annual cut flower
- sunny or semi-shady location
- fresh, loose soil
- Sow indoors from February, in the garden from May
- Direct sowing possible
- Light germinator
- suitable for beds, tubs and pots
- insect pasture
Sowing flowering tobacco
You can cultivate the beautiful, delicate flowering tobacco indoors from February. As it is a so-called light germinator, the seeds should only be pressed on superficially and not be covered or only covered with a very thin layer of soil. As soon as the last frosts have passed (from around mid-May), the young plants can be planted outdoors. Direct sowing is then also possible. Make sure to keep the potting compost evenly moist.
At an ideal germination temperature of 18-20 °C, you can look forward to the first seedlings after approx. 2-3 weeks.
It takes about 90 days from sowing to flowering.
Site & soil
Flowering tobacco loves warm and sunny conditions. It is very undemanding and can also be planted in partial shade. However, the shadier the location, the more restrained the flowering tobacco’s flower production.
The plants are very delicate and are among the more sensitive annuals, so a sheltered spot in the garden is advisable. A fresh to moist and loose soil is ideal. Drought is tolerated at times. The soil should also be well supplied with nutrients.
Flowering tobacco also thrives in containers as long as waterlogging is avoided.
Caring for flowering tobacco
The beautiful flowering tobacco needs a lot of nutrients. So spoil it with regular fertilisation. You will be rewarded with an even fuller bloom. Occasional pinching also supports flower formation. Also make sure that the soil is rather moist. If it is persistently dry, the ornamental tobacco needs to be watered very regularly.
Cutting flowering tobacco for the vase
As flowering tobacco is quite delicate, it is important to be particularly careful when cutting the flowers. The vase life will be for around eight days.
