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Five Spot (Nemophila maculata) Planting Instructions

Outdoor Planting (Direct Sow)

1. 
   Timing:
   Sow seeds outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in fall in mild-winter regions (like California) for natural spring blooms.
2. 
   Site Selection:
   Choose a sunny to partly shaded location (4–6 hours of sunlight daily). Five Spot prefers cool spring weather and will fade as temperatures rise.
3. 
   Soil Preparation:
   Loosen soil to a depth of 4–6 inches.
   
   Mix in compost or organic matter for better drainage and fertility.
   
   Rake smooth before sowing.
4. 
   Sowing:
   Sprinkle seeds evenly over the soil surface.
   
   Press lightly into the soil (do not cover deeply — light aids germination).
   
   Space seeds about 6–8 inches apart for best display.
   
5. 
   Watering:
   Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until seedlings emerge, usually in 7–14 days.
   
   Once established, water lightly but regularly during dry periods.
   
6. 
   Care:
   
   No fertilizer is usually needed.
   
   Remove weeds carefully to avoid disturbing young plants.
   
   Allow flowers to reseed naturally for blooms the next spring.

Indoor Planting (Seed Starting)

1. 
   Timing:
   Start seeds 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
2. 
   Containers & Soil:
   
   Use small pots or seed trays with well-draining seed-starting mix.
   
   Moisten the soil before sowing.
   
3. 
   Sowing Seeds:
   
   Press seeds gently into the soil surface (do not bury).
   
   Maintain gentle light contact—light is needed for germination.
   
4. 
   Light & Temperature:
   
   Place in bright light or under grow lights for 12–14 hours per day.
   
   Keep temperatures between 55–65°F (13–18°C) for best germination.
   
5. 
   Watering:
   
   Mist lightly to keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged.
6. 
   Germination typically occurs in 7–14 days.
   
7. 
   Transplanting:
   
   Harden off seedlings gradually outdoors for a week before planting.
   
   Transplant into prepared beds once soil is workable and frost danger has passed.
   
   Space 6–8 inches apart.
   

🌸 Tips for Success

• 
  Five Spot thrives in cool, moist spring conditions and is ideal for early-season color.
• 
  Excellent for containers, borders, and native wildflower meadows.
• 
  Allow to self-seed each year for recurring blooms.