Clitoria Ternatea 'Night Sky' | Variegated Aparajita Flower Seeds

Easy

Sowing:

• Clitoria ternatea seeds can be started indoors or directly in the ground.
• To start the seeds indoors, fill a seed tray or pots with seed compost and water it well.
• Sow the seeds on the surface of the compost, making sure they are not too close together.
• Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost or vermiculite.
• Place the tray or pots in a warm, sunny spot and keep the compost moist.

Planting:

• Clitoria ternatea plants can be transplanted into the ground when they are large enough to handle.
• Choose a sunny spot in the garden with well-draining soil.
Water the plants well before transplanting them.
• Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball of the plant.
• Place the plant in the hole and fill in with soil, making sure the plant is at the same depth as it was in the pot.
• Water the plant well after planting.

1-2 Week

For Aparajita seeds (Clitoria ternatea or butterfly pea), proper feeding and fertilization are essential for healthy growth and abundant flowering.

During Early Growth: When the seeds germinate and the seedlings are developing, use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (like 10-10-10). This encourages strong root development and foliage growth. Organic fertilizers like compost or vermicompost are ideal at this stage, as they provide a slow release of nutrients.

During Flowering: Once the plant starts flowering, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to support blooming. A fertilizer with a ratio like 5-10-5 or 10-20-10 works well. Organic alternatives like bone meal or banana peels can also be used to enhance flower production.

Organic Feeding: Aparajita responds well to organic fertilizers. Apply compost tea or liquid seaweed fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to provide ongoing nutrition. Fish emulsion or cow dung manure are excellent organic fertilizers to maintain nutrient levels throughout the growing season.

Application Tips: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to avoid root burn, and avoid over-fertilizing, which may lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers. A balanced, consistent feeding regimen ensures that your Aparajita plants thrive and bloom profusely.

It's important to water Clitoria ternatea plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, the plants will need to be watered about once a week, but the exact frequency will depend on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and soil type.

To water the plants, use a watering can or hose to apply water to the soil around the base of the plant. Try to avoid getting the foliage wet, as this can encourage the growth of fungal diseases.

In addition to watering the plants regularly, it's a good idea to mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture in the soil. This can be done with materials such as straw, bark chips, or compost.

If you are growing Clitoria ternatea in pots or containers, be sure to check the soil moisture level more frequently, as containerized plants tend to dry out faster than those grown in the ground.

When potting Clitoria ternatea plants, choose a potting mix that is well-draining and contains a balance of nutrients. Avoid using heavy, clay-based soils, as these can retain too much water and lead to root rot. It's also a good idea to fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilize to ensure they have all the nutrients they need to grow and bloom.

This sun-loving beauty thrives in full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal blooming and vibrant colors. A little afternoon shade won't hurt, especially in hotter climates.