Creeping Charlie Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea) is a fast-growing, low-maintenance ground cover plant that is perfect for shady areas of your garden. It has attractive green leaves and produces small, violet-blue flowers in the spring. If you are interested in growing this plant in your garden or want to store its seeds for future use, then this guide will help you with all the information you need on storing, sowing, and germinating Creeping Charlie plant seeds.

Storing Creeping Charlie Plant Seeds

The first step in storing Creeping Charlie plant seeds is to collect them when they are mature. The best time to collect the seeds is in late summer or early fall when the flowers have turned into small round seed pods. Cut off the seed pods from the plant using scissors or pruning shears and put them in a paper bag.

Once you have collected the seed pods, you need to dry them out before storing them. Spread them out on a piece of newspaper or a drying rack and leave them in a warm, dry place for about two weeks or until they are completely dry. You can then remove the seeds from the pods by gently crushing or shaking them.

Store the seeds in an airtight container such as a glass jar or plastic container. Label the container with the name of the plant and the date of collection. Store the container in a cool, dry place like a pantry or refrigerator.

Sowing Creeping Charlie Plant Seeds

Creeping Charlie seeds can be sown directly into garden soil or started indoors in pots. If you choose to sow them directly into the soil, wait until after the last frost date for your area and prepare the soil by loosening it and removing any weeds or debris. Scatter the seeds over the soil surface and gently press them into the soil. Water lightly but avoid overwatering.

If you prefer to start the seeds indoors, fill a pot with potting soil and plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep. Water the soil lightly and cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect. Place the pot in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight.

Germinating Creeping Charlie Plant Seeds

Creeping Charlie plant seeds usually germinate within 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, remove the plastic covering and place them in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.

After a few weeks, when the seedlings have grown larger, you can transplant them into your garden or into larger pots. Choose a shaded area with well-draining soil for planting Creeping Charlie as it prefers moist soil but does not like waterlogged conditions. Space the plants about 6 inches apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.

FAQ

Can Creeping Charlie be invasive?
Yes, Creeping Charlie is known to be an invasive plant that can quickly spread and take over an area if not controlled properly.

How often should I water Creeping Charlie?
Creeping Charlie prefers moist soil but does not like waterlogged conditions. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I grow Creeping Charlie in full sun?
No, Creeping Charlie prefers shade or partial shade and does not tolerate full sun well.

Is Creeping Charlie poisonous?
No, Creeping Charlie is not poisonous to humans or animals but should not be consumed in large quantities as it can cause stomach upset.

Can I use Creeping Charlie as an herbal remedy?
Yes, Creeping Charlie has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties but should be used with caution and under the guidance of a medical professional.