Planting Instructions for Baptisia alba (White Wild Indigo)

Outside Planting (Direct Sow)

1. 
   Site Selection – Choose a site with full sun (6–8+ hours daily). Plants tolerate partial shade but flower best in sun. Soil should be well-drained sandy, loamy, or rocky. Avoid heavy clay or standing water.
   
2. 
   Seed Preparation – Scarify seeds (nick or sand the seed coat) to improve water absorption. For spring sowing, cold stratify seeds for 4–6 weeks in moist medium (peat, vermiculite, or sand) in the refrigerator.
   
3. 
   When to Plant – Sow outdoors in fall for natural winter stratification, or in early spring with pre-treated seeds.
   
4. 
   Planting Depth & Spacing – Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and cover lightly. Space plants 24–36 inches apart, as each will form a large clump.
   
5. 
   Watering – Keep the soil lightly moist until seedlings establish. Once mature, plants are drought tolerant and rarely need extra watering.
   
6. 
   Growth & Care – Germination can be slow, taking 2–6 weeks or longer. Plants grow slowly at first as they develop a deep taproot. Avoid moving established plants. Cut back old stems in late winter.
   

Inside Planting (Starting Indoors)

1. 
   Timing – Start seeds 6–8 weeks before last frost.
   
2. 
   Seed Preparation – Scarify, then cold stratify seeds for 4–6 weeks in a moist medium.
   
3. 
   Planting Medium & Depth – Use a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow ¼ inch deep in trays or pots.
   
4. 
   Light & Watering – Place under grow lights or in a bright window for 12–14 hours daily. Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy. Germination in 2–6 weeks.
   
5. 
   Seedling Care – Transplant to larger pots once seedlings have true leaves. Handle carefully to protect taproots.
   
6. 
   Hardening Off & Transplanting – Acclimate seedlings outdoors for 7–10 days before transplanting after frost danger passes. Space plants 24–36 inches apart. Choose permanent sites; mature plants do not transplant well.