Starting Seeds – Sensitive Plant
Seedlings are aplenty at the Limbrick house this year! Cameron started oodles of tomatoes and peppers several weeks ago. I followed with lots of zinnias and a smattering of herbs, marigolds, morning glories, and moonflowers. Then I remembered that I forgot to start Sensitive Plant. I found my little half-used packet of seeds from two years ago, soaked them as directed, and put 3-4 in each little peat pot, hoping that at least one would surface in each. Well, look – almost every seed is working its magic! (And there are six peat pots!)
If you haven’t seen or even heard of Sensitive Plant before, take a look at the info and photo on the Monticello site. I first saw Sensitive Plant when I visited Monticello in 1997 and took the garden tour. Every time I go back, I locate the plant in the garden behind the house and test out it’s sensitivity by giving the leaves a slight brush with my fingertips. I feel like a little girl every time, thrilled that the leaves retract like they do – then sloooooowly open up again.
Speaking of a little girl (or boy), these plants are really fun for kids. My seeds came up very quickly – in about three days – so there’s some instant gratification, which is always a plus. This little kit is really sweet for young gardeners: Grow Your Own Sensitive Plant
I’ll post more photos later as the plants grow, but thought you might like to see these little wonders. Aren’t they cute?
