Growing and Sowing forget-me-not

The forget-me-not (Myosotis alpestris) is a low-growing, early spring bloomer from the genus Myosotis that instantly brings color to the garden with its small, often blue or pink flowers. The plant is frequently used in borders, rock gardens, and pots because it quickly forms a dense, elegant carpet and combines well with other spring plants. Additionally, it is valuable to the garden as the flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other early insects at a time when few flowering plants are available. This allows the forget-me-not to contribute to biodiversity and an insect-friendly garden.

Sowing and growing forget-me-not?

The forget-me-not (Myosotis alpestris) is a low-growing, usually perennial species from the genus Myosotis. The name alpestris means “of the mountains” and refers to its natural habitats in mountainous, cooler regions of Europe and Asia. This species forms compact clumps with small, bright blue flowers featuring a yellow center, and blooms from spring into early summer. The plant grows best in a sunny to partially shaded location in humus-rich, well-draining, yet slightly moist soil. Thanks to its early blooming and compact growth, the forget-me-not is popular in rock gardens, borders, and pots.

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How sowing forget-me-not

Forget-me-not is usually sown from May to July in a seedbed or in pots, either outdoors or under glass. Sow the fine seeds shallowly onto moist, well-draining seed-starting mix and press them down lightly without covering them, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the seeds in a cool, bright spot. Germination usually takes 10 to 20 days. When the young plants are large enough to handle, they can be pricked out and later transplanted to their permanent location with a planting distance of approximately 15–20 cm for optimal development.

Position and soil for forget-me-not seeds?

Forget-me-not grows best in a partially shaded to sunny location, preferably in a spot that does not become too hot and dry. The plant loves a humus-rich, well-draining, and slightly moist soil, and performs less well in heavy, wet, or bone-dry ground. A light, airy garden soil with some compost ensures healthy growth and a rich blooming period in spring.

How to care for your forget-me-not flowers?

Forget-me-not is an easy and rewarding plant that requires little care. Keep the soil slightly moist, especially during dry spells, but prevent the roots from sitting in waterlogged soil. Remove faded flowers to extend the blooming period, or leave them in place if natural self-seeding is desired. In spring, a small amount of compost or organic fertilizer can be applied to support growth. The plant frequently self-seeds, allowing it to easily return to the garden year after year.

Is the forget-me-not bee and/or butterfly friendly?

The forget-me-not is bee- and insect-friendly. The small flowers produce nectar and pollen, primarily attracting bees, bumblebees, and hoverflies. Because the plant blooms early in spring, it provides an important food source at a time when few other flowers are available. This way, the forget-me-not contributes to a healthy biodiversity in the garden.

Can you sow forget-me-not in the vegetable garden?

The forget-me-not is not typically used as a vegetable garden plant, but it can be beneficial in the kitchen garden because the flowers attract bees and other pollinators, thereby contributing to better pollination of fruits and vegetables. The flowers are, to a limited extent, edible and are sometimes used as a garnish. The flowers can also be used in bouquets.

Is the forget-me-not edible and/or medicinal?

The forget-me-not is edible to a limited extent and is sometimes used as a garnish for dishes. The flower is quite flavourless. The plant is not considered to have medicinal properties.

Please note, we at Dutch Garden Seeds do not give medical advice. Always ask a professional if and how the plant can be used medicinally.

Forget-me-not seeds in our collection

We offer various types of forget-me-not seeds from the brand 'Buzzy Seeds' in our product range.

Tips

The plant can be highly useful as a ground cover, as it quickly forms a low, dense carpet of leaves and small flowers. This helps suppress weeds and provides a natural, full floral carpet in the garden during spring.