Planting Carolina Lupine seeds is simple and rewarding! Just follow these friendly, step-by-step instructions to grow these beautiful plants. Be sure to start no sooner than 2 weeks before your last frost date. Garden.org has a useful tool to see when your last frost date is.

What You’ll Need for Scarification:

• 100 Grit Sandpaper
• Ziploc Bag
• Fine Sand

1. Scarify the Seeds

Let’s get started!

• Spread your seeds out on sandpaper, leaving some space between them so they don't rub together.
• Gently rub (do not grind) the seeds on the top side with another piece of sandpaper. Lightly nick the coat, all you want is to create a thinner shell for water to permeate.
  Don’t worry—this step is easier than it sounds!

2. Prepare the Sand Mixture

Next, let’s mix things up!

• Use fine sand, either store-bought or collected locally (I like river sand myself).
• Dampen the sand just enough so it sticks together—like a sandcastle!
• Add the scarified seeds to the sand and mix everything thoroughly so the seeds are evenly coated.

3. Cold Moist Stratification

Time to let the seeds chill—literally!

• Scoop the sand and seed mixture into a Ziploc bag.
• Pop it into your refrigerator for 10 to 30 days. Every refrigerator is different, so be sure to check on the seeds every couple of days as we don't want them to germinate prematurely.

10-30 Days Later...

What you'll need for Germination

• A germination flat
• A humidity dome for your flat
• Organic seed-starting mix

4. Sow the Seeds

Now it’s time to plant those seeds!

At this stage, you may choose to direct sow instead of using a germination flat. I generally have had better results using a germination flat, but if you would rather direct sow, follow this step outside instead of in a flat. Be sure to direct sow after your last frost date.

• Fill the flat with seed-starting mix and water it thoroughly.
• Sprinkle the sand and seed mixture evenly over the soil and spread it out. Make sure to use all of the sand and seed mixture, some seeds may be hiding in the sand!
• Cover the seeds lightly with about 1/8 inch of seed-starting mix—just a tiny blanket for them!
• Place the humidity dome on top to keep things cozy.
• I generally do not water the top 1/8", the humidity from the bottom layer is enough to keep everything damp.

5. Create the Perfect Germination Spot

Let’s help your seeds sprout!

• Put the flat under grow lights. If you have a heat mat, it’s a great way to encourage consistent germination.
• Keep the area warm and check daily. In 10 to 14 days, you should see your first little Baptisia sprouts!

10-14 Days Later...

What you'll need for transplanting:

• Larger cells for your seedlings
• organic seed-starting mix
• A small tool to make holes in the cells

6. Transplanting Seedlings

This is where your seedlings start growing up!

• When your seedlings have their cotyledon leaves (the first set of leaves) or their first true leaf, they’re ready for a new home.
• Fill larger planting cells or pots with potting soil and water them well.
• Use a dibble tool to make a small hole for each seedling, gently place them in, and cover the roots.
• If a root is too long, it’s okay to trim just the tip. This can make it easier to place them in the new cell.

7. Prepare for the Great Outdoors

Almost there!

• Keep your seedlings under grow lights, lowering the lights close to the plants so they don’t get too leggy.
• Once your seedlings have 2 to 4 sets of true leaves, they’re ready to move to their permanent spot outdoors.
• Transplant them to your favorite spot outdoors and make sure to keep them well watered until they are established.

Happy Growing! 🌱

That’s it—you’re on your way to growing beautiful Carolina Lupine! With a little care, your seeds will sprout and thrive. Enjoy the process, and happy planting! 😊