When I first heard about Ten O’Clock flowers, I thought it was a joke. Flowers that tell time? Well, as it turns out, it’s completely true!
These flowers, also known as Portulaca or Moss roses, really do open up at around 10 AM like they’re waking up from a floral dream. If you’re anything like me and want to grow strange flowers with unique features, then you’re going to adore planting these delightful blooms.
The first time I planted them, I was skeptical. But every day, like clockwork, those blooms would open and I’d get this little thrill watching them greet the day.
Although they might be tricky to plant, it’s not impossible (I mean, if I could do it, so can anyone). All you have to do is…
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you get your hands dirty, make sure you’ve got everything you need:
• Portulaca seeds or seedlings (if you’re feeling fancy, go for a mix of colors)
• A sunny spot in your garden (these guys love soaking up the sun)
• Well-draining soil (think sandy or gritty)
• A watering can or hose with a gentle spray nozzle
When I first planted Ten O’Clock flowers, I didn’t realize how much they love the sun. I mistakenly put them in a shaded corner of my garden, and let’s just say they were less than thrilled.
Lesson learned – find the sunniest spot you’ve got!
2. Prepare the Soil
These flowers are not picky, but they do have one request: well-draining soil.
If your garden soil is heavy and clay-like, you might want to mix in some sand or compost to lighten it up. This step is crucial because the soil will become their new home, and I bet you want your plants to be comfortable and happy!
Related: These 6 Tips Will Help You Improve Your Garden Soil And Grow Healthier Plants
3. Put Those Seeds In The Ground
You can start from scratch and grow plants from seeds, or you can immediately go for seedlings. Whatever you choose, here are some tips to get the job done:
For seeds:
• Sprinkle the seeds lightly over the soil. They’re tiny, so a little goes a long way.
• Gently press the seeds into the soil with your fingers or a piece of cardboard.
For seedlings:
• Dig small holes just deep enough to cover the root ball of each seedling.
• Place the seedlings in the holes and gently cover with soil.
Keep in mind that these flowers like to sprawl and spread, so give them enough space to stretch out.
4. Remember To Water Wisely
Now, you should water your seeds or seedlings gently. The goal is to ensure that the soil stays moist but not soggy. Overwatering can drown the seeds (and no one likes a soggy start).
In my early gardening days, I went heavy with the watering and nearly washed my seeds away! Go easy and think of it as giving them a refreshing drink (not a bath like I did).
This might be helpful: Discover 4 Smart Ways To Use Rainwater In Your Garden And Home
5. Wait Patiently
Here’s where patience comes into play.
Keep an eye on your little green babies and make sure they get plenty of sunlight and water. And in about 7-14 days, you should start seeing tiny sprouts making their debut.
The first time my Ten O’Clock flowers sprouted, I immediately called my sister because I needed another set of eyes to look at them. I just couldn’t believe it, but there they were – little green shoots!
6. Now, Enjoy The Show
Get yourself some coffee in the morning and, around 10 AM each day, you’ll get to see your flowers open up like they’re on a floral schedule.
If you don’t know the time, just look at the flowers – it’s like a natural clock in your garden (and trust me, it never gets old!).
7. Don’t Forget To Take Good Care Of Your Flowers
If you want your plants to be on time every morning, you’ll have to take good care of them. Here are some tips that helped my roses thrive:
• Deadheading – remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
• Watering – water when the soil is dry. These plants are drought-tolerant, so don’t worry if you miss a day or two.
• Weeding – keep the area around your plants free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
One summer, I went on vacation and left my Ten O’Clock flowers to fend for themselves. When I returned, they were still good as new (they’re tough cookies, it surprised me).
If you’re still skeptical about planting Ten O’clock flowers, just follow these instructions and get the job done. If you fail, just try again next season (though I’m sure you’ll do great!).
Also read: Enjoy A Fresh Smell As Soon As You Walk Out The Door With These 8 Scent-Sational Plants