How to Plant Black-Eyed Susan Vine Seeds

Black-eyed Susan vines, or clock vines, produce flowers similar to actual black-eyed Susans, but on a long twining vine. The yellow or orange flowers have five petals and a deep purple, nearly black center. The annual twining vine climbs trellises, fences and other supports, reaching up to 6 feet tall. The plants grow readily from seed. Start the seeds indoors six weeks before the last expected spring frost so the plants are ready to climb and blossom once planted out in the garden for summer.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Seedling pots
• Potting soil
• Tray
• Plastic bag

1. Fill 3-inch diameter pots with a general purpose potting soil. Place the pots in a tray.
2. Fill the tray with 1 inch of water. Allow the pots to soak for 30 minutes or until the soil surface begins to moisten. Pour the excess water from the tray.
3. Sow two seeds per pot, placing them on the surface of the soil. Cover the seeds with a 1/8-inch layer of moistened soil.
4. Slide the tray of pots into a clear plastic bag. Place them in a warm, 70 to 75 degree Fahrenheit room where they receive bright light. Black-eyed Susan vines require light for germination.
5. Remove the plastic bag once sprouts emerge from the soil, usually within seven to 14 days of sowing. Keep the pots in the warm, well-lit area.
6. Water the vines when the soil surface feels dry. Water at the base of the seedlings until the excess moisture drains from the pots and into the tray. Empty the collected water from the tray after each irrigation.

Tips & Warnings

• Transplant the black-eyed Susan vines outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. They grow best in moist soil in a partially shaded bed.