This beauty is an annual that comes in heavenly blue, pink, purple, white and even bi-color blossoms. It has trumpet-shaped blooms and heart-shaped leaves. They love to climb, so have a fence or trellis handy. The Morning Glory Heavenly Blue blooms full in the morning and closes up when the afternoon sun appears.
There are reasons, though, why this plant may fail to bloom. Here’s that list and how to avoid these pitfalls.
- Disease – If you plant in soil that is well-drained and space the seeds so you have accounted for the width of the mature bloom, you can avoid black rot and rust. These are the two most common diseases that affect the Morning Glory.
- Hungry Herbivores – If you plant some strong-smelling herbs close to the Morning Glory this might stop your friendly neighborhood groundhog or other herbivores from eating away at your blooms. Those herbs might be oregano or rosemary.
- Not Enough Sunlight – These flowers grow best in the full sun. They need that sun to bloom each morning. If you have planted them in a shady area, they are apt to produce fewer blooms.
- Too Much/Little Moisture – These plants grow best with about an inch of water per week (this includes you watering them or natural rainfall). If they get more or less than that, the leaves will turn yellow. If you’ve had too much rain, or you’ve over-watered, mix in some appropriate sand to improve drainage. If you are responsible to water this week, then make sure it meets the standard of that one inch.
- Soil That’s Too Rich in Nutrients – This plant does not appreciate nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Avoid their use.
- Pests – There are many pests that feed on the foliage of the Morning Glory. If this is the case, your plants may slow up their growth to try and survive. Pests like aphids can be thrown off with a strong spray of water from a hose, while Japanese beetles need to be handpicked off and then destroyed by dropping them in a pail of soapy water. An eco-friendly insecticide is also an option when they become persistent.
- Self-Sown Offspring – The seeds of this plant like to self-sow. Fresh seeds from a reputable seller like ourselves allow the best opportunity to avoid most of that unwanted self-sowing to take place. Keep in mind you can hoe up and get rid of unwanted seedlings each spring.
Good luck with your glorious Glories!
