How to Grow Morning Glory Plant Indoors

Morning glory plants (Ipomoea spp.) are known for their stunning trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, red, and blue. While they are commonly grown outdoors in gardens, morning glory plants can also be successfully grown indoors, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant blooms all year round. In this article, we will guide you on how to grow morning glory plants indoors and provide tips for their care and maintenance.

Choosing the Right Morning Glory Variety

Before you start growing morning glory plants indoors, it is important to choose the right variety that is suitable for indoor cultivation. Some morning glory varieties are better suited for outdoor growth due to their vigorous growth habits. Look for compact or dwarf varieties that are specifically bred for container gardening. Some popular indoor varieties include ‘Heavenly Blue,’ ‘Grandpa Ott,’ and ‘Sunrise Serenade.’ These varieties have a more manageable growth habit and are well-suited for growing in pots.

Preparing the Soil and Container

Morning glory plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can prepare a suitable potting mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and compost. This will ensure good drainage while providing the necessary nutrients for the plant’s growth. Select a container that has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. A 12-inch pot with good depth is usually sufficient for growing morning glory plants indoors.

Planting Morning Glory Seeds

Morning glory seeds have a hard outer coating that prevents water from penetrating easily. To increase the chances of successful germination, it is recommended to scarify the seeds before planting. You can do this by gently nicking the seed coat with a nail file or sandpaper. Soak the seeds in warm water overnight to further soften the seed coat.

Fill the pot with the prepared potting mix, leaving about an inch of space from the top. Plant the scarified seeds about half an inch deep into the soil, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and gently pat it down. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a warm location that receives bright, indirect sunlight.

Providing Optimal Growing Conditions

Morning glory plants thrive in warm and sunny conditions. Place the pot near a south-facing window where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If natural light is insufficient, you can also use fluorescent grow lights to supplement the light requirements.

Maintain a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures or drafts as this can cause stress and affect its overall health.

Watering and Fertilizing

Morning glory plants prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It is important to water deeply, allowing the excess water to drain out through the bottom holes.

Fertilize morning glory plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer according to package instructions and apply it to the soil around the base of the plant. This will provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Training and Supporting Morning Glory Plants

Morning glory plants are vigorous climbers that require support as they grow. Provide a trellis, bamboo stakes, or a wire frame for the plant to climb onto. As the plant grows, gently guide its tendrils towards the support structure to encourage upward growth.

Regularly check for any tendrils that may be trailing along the ground or entangling nearby plants. These tendrils can be redirected back onto the support structure to prevent overcrowding and promote better air circulation.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

While morning glory plants are generally resilient, they can still be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If detected, treat the infestation promptly using organic insecticidal soap or neem oil.

To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If you notice any signs of disease, such as wilting leaves or discoloration, remove the affected parts immediately to prevent the spread of infection.

Enjoying the Blooms

With proper care and attention, your indoor morning glory plant will reward you with beautiful blooms. Morning glory flowers usually open in the morning and close in the afternoon, hence their name. You can expect a profusion of blooms throughout the growing season, which typically lasts from late spring to early fall.

Feel free to cut some of the blooms to enjoy indoors or share with friends and family. Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Remember to save some seeds from your morning glory plant to grow new plants in the future.

In conclusion, growing morning glory plants indoors can be a rewarding experience. With the right variety, suitable growing conditions, proper care, and support structures, you can enjoy the beauty of these vibrant flowers all year round. So why not bring a touch of nature’s elegance into your home by starting your own indoor morning glory garden?