How to Grow Lupine

Sow Lupine seeds directly in the garden 4 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Lupine typically matures in about 365 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Lupine does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

Lupine requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.

Space Lupine plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Lupine has moderate (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Lupine is rated easy. Allow seed pods to dry on the plant — pods will turn black and begin to twist when fully ripe. Collect before pods explode and fling seeds. Shell pods, dry seeds 1 week.

Properly dried and stored Lupine seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Lupine is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.