love-in-a-mist

Love-in-a-mist (Nigella damascena) should be watered whenever the soil is slightly dry. Generally, this plant species tends to prefer well-draining soil, so too much moisture can cause root rot. Water thoroughly until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Allow the top inch or 2 of soil to dry out before watering again. During hot, dry weather, water the plant lightly every few days to ensure the soil doesn’t completely dry out. During cooler weather and when the plant is dormant, watering every 7-10 days is usually sufficient.

Love-in-a-mist thrives in full sun and will suffer in shaded areas. It prefers 8-10 hours of sunlight per day, which should be mostly direct sunlight. It should be grown in an area with at least 6 hours of peak sun each day – mid-morning to mid-afternoon – and an hour or 2 of dappled shade each day. Aim for maximum sun exposure in the summer, when the plant is in full bloom. The plant should be partially shaded in hot climates, but sheltered from strong winds.

Love-in-a-Mist should be pruned in late winter or early spring. The entire plant may be cut back to approximately 6 inches in height to encourage fresh growth and a fuller plant. It may also be cut back again after flowering to encourage additional blooming. Deadheading any faded flowers to keep the plants flowering throughout the season is also beneficial. Finally, it is important to remove any straggly or damaged growth as soon as possible.