Live to Plant

How to Grow Mullein Plant Indoors

Scroll down to article
Updated: July 11, 2023

Mullein, also known as Verbascum, is a versatile and easy-to-grow plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. With its tall stalks of vibrant yellow flowers and fuzzy leaves, it adds a unique touch to any garden or indoor space. Growing mullein indoors allows you to enjoy its beauty year-round, even in regions with colder climates. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing mullein plant indoors, from selecting the right variety to providing the optimal growing conditions.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before you start growing mullein indoors, it’s important to choose the right variety for your indoor space. While there are several species of mullein, some are better suited for indoor cultivation than others. Here are a few popular mullein varieties that can thrive indoors:

  1. Verbascum bombyciferum: This variety stands out with its silvery leaves and tall flower spikes. It is well-suited for indoor cultivation due to its compact size.

  2. Verbascum phoeniceum: With its vibrant purple flowers, this variety adds a pop of color to any indoor space. It is a perennial plant that can bloom for multiple years.

  3. Verbascum chaixii: This variety features unique bi-colored flowers with yellow centers and purple edges. It is a smaller species that doesn’t require a lot of space.

Choose a variety that suits your personal preference and the available space in your home.

Propagation

To start growing mullein indoors, you need to propagate the plant. Mullein can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings. Here’s how to propagate mullein using these methods:

Seeds

  1. Fill a seed tray or small pots with well-draining potting soil.

  2. Moisten the soil before sowing the seeds.

  3. Scatter the seeds on top of the soil and gently press them down. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they require light to germinate.

  4. Place the seed tray or pots in a warm and sunny location, such as a south-facing window.

  5. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

  6. Germination can take anywhere from 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have grown a couple of inches tall, you can transplant them into larger pots.

Cuttings

  1. Take 4 to 6-inch stem cuttings from a healthy mullein plant.

  2. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a few at the top.

  3. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development.

  4. Fill a small pot with well-draining potting soil and make a hole in the center using a pencil or finger.

  5. Insert the cutting into the hole, ensuring that at least half of the stem is submerged in the soil.

  6. Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm and sunny location.

  7. Mist the cutting regularly to maintain humidity levels.

  8. Roots should start developing within a few weeks. Once the cutting has established roots, you can transplant it into a larger pot.

Providing Optimal Growing Conditions

Mullein plants require specific growing conditions to thrive indoors. By providing these optimal conditions, you can ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Here’s what you need to consider:

Lighting

Mullein plants thrive in bright sunlight, so it’s essential to provide them with adequate light indoors. Place your mullein plant near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with artificial grow lights.

Temperature

Mullein plants prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). Avoid placing the plant near sources of heat, such as radiators or vents, as this can cause stress and hinder growth. Maintain a consistent temperature to ensure optimal growth.

Watering

Mullein plants require regular watering, but it’s crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Check the moisture level by inserting your finger into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Mullein plants are drought-tolerant, so it’s better to underwater than overwater.

Soil

Use well-draining potting soil for mullein plants. A mixture of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and vermiculite works well. This type of soil allows excess water to drain away, preventing waterlogging and root rot.

Fertilizing

Mullein plants benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and application.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your mullein plant healthy and thriving indoors, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Pruning: Regularly pinch back the tips of the plant to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too tall and leggy.

  • Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

  • Pest Control: Mullein plants are generally pest-resistant, but occasionally they may be affected by aphids or spider mites. Monitor your plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

  • Transplanting: As your mullein plant grows, you may need to transplant it into a larger pot to provide more space for the roots. Choose a pot that is one size larger and use fresh potting soil.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow mullein plants indoors and enjoy their beauty year-round. With their unique appearance and vibrant blooms, mullein plants are sure to add a touch of natural elegance to your indoor space.

Related Posts:

Mullein Plant