Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’
Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’
Botanical Name:
Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’
Common Names:
Blue Daze, Dwarf Morning Glory
Family:
Convolvulaceae
USDA Zone:
Suitable for zones 9-11
Origin:
Native to Brazil
1. Introduction
Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’ is a stunning and compact perennial known for its vibrant blue flowers and trailing growth habit.
This plant has gained popularity among gardeners for its profuse blooming and ability to thrive in various conditions.
Learn more about this charming plant’s characteristics, growing requirements, and care tips in this comprehensive guide.
2. Description
Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’ features small, vibrant blue flowers that resemble those of morning glories.
It has trailing stems with fuzzy, silver-green foliage, creating a lush carpet of blue blooms.
This plant is prized for its continuous flowering throughout the growing season, adding a splash of colour to borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
3. Growing Conditions
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade; requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal flowering.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to frost; protect from cold drafts and freezing temperatures.
Soil: Well-draining soil with good fertility; neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Humidity: Tolerates average humidity levels; avoid overhead watering to prevent foliage diseases.
4. Planting
When to Plant: Plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in early summer for continuous flowering.
How to Plant: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after planting.
5. Care and Maintenance
Watering: Maintain even soil moisture, especially during hot, dry weather; reduce watering during periods of dormancy in winter.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning: Trim back leggy stems and spent flowers to encourage bushier growth and continuous blooming.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew; treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
6. Propagation
Propagation Methods: Propagate from stem cuttings or by division.
Propagation Tips: Take 4 to 6-inch stem cuttings from healthy plants and root in a well-draining
rooting medium; divide established clumps in spring. The method I found more successful, is to start the stem cuttings out in water first. Place the newly cut stems into water in a glass jar and place in a warm bright position. Within 7 days you should start to notice little roots appearing. Once new roots are about 1-2 cm long, plant directly into potting soil and not too long from now you will have stable plants.
7. Flowering
Blooming Season: Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’ blooms profusely from spring to fall, with flowers lasting for one day.
Flower Description: Small, trumpet-shaped, sky-blue flowers with a yellow centre; blooms open in the morning and close in the afternoon.
Longevity: Individual flowers last for one day but are produced continuously throughout the blooming season.
8. Uses
Ornamental: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, containers, and hanging baskets, where its trailing habit and vibrant flowers add a pop of colour.
Ground Cover: Forms a dense, low-growing carpet of foliage and flowers, making it suitable for ground cover in sunny areas.
Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden with its nectar-rich flowers.
9. Conclusion
Evolvulus ‘Blue My Mind’ is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that brings beauty and charm to any garden or landscape. With its stunning blue flowers and easy care requirements, it’s sure to ‘blue’ your mind with its captivating appeal.