Dwarf Morning Glory: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Care
Overview
Dwarf morning glory (Evolvulus glomeratus), also known as blue daze, is a captivating plant that produces an abundance of true-blue blooms over a carpet of silvery-green foliage. This versatile plant can enhance gardens as a ground cover, cascade from containers, or even serve as a unique addition to retaining walls.
Plant Characteristics
- Height and Spread: 9-24 inches tall, 2-3 feet wide
- Flowers: True-blue, funnel-shaped, about 1/2 inch wide
- Bloom Time: Late spring to first frost
- Foliage: Oval-shaped, silvery-green with a slight sheen
- Growth Habit: Low-growing, mounding, slightly spreading
Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day)
- Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH
- Water: Moderate watering, about 1/2-1 inch per week
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures above 65°F, not tolerant of frost
Planting and Propagation
Dwarf morning glory can be easily planted from nursery starts or propagated through stem cuttings or seeds.
Planting:
- Plant in well-drained soil after the last frost date.
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart.
- Water deeply after planting.
Stem Cuttings:
- Take 3-5 inch cuttings from healthy stems in summer.
- Remove leaves from the bottom 1/3 of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cutting in a container with porous potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist and provide bright indirect light.
- Transplant outdoors in spring once roots have developed.
Seeds:
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed starter mix.
- Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of sunlight.
- Transplant outdoors once all danger of frost has passed.
Care and Maintenance
Dwarf morning glory is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal care.
Watering:
- Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing:
- Fertilize monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Pruning:
- Pinch back stems when young to promote a bushier growth habit.
- Prune lightly in late summer to remove spent blooms and encourage new growth.
Overwintering
In warm climates, dwarf morning glory can overwinter outdoors.
- Cut back stems and reduce watering in fall.
- Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Protect plants from frost with mulch or blankets.
In colder climates, potted plants can be brought indoors as houseplants.
- Place in a sunny window.
- Water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist.
Troubleshooting
The only notable problem with dwarf morning glory is root rot, which can occur in dense, poorly draining soil or with excessive watering.
Other Species of Evolvulus
Besides E. glomeratus, there are other Evolvulus species that can add beauty to gardens.
- Evolvulus arizonicus (Arizona blue eyes): 1-foot tall mounding plant, excellent for low-moisture gardens.
- Evolvulus nuttallianus (shaggy morning glory): Thrives in moist soil, hardy in zones 4 to 10.
Additional Tips
- Plant dwarf morning glory in full sun for optimal flowering.
- Provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Consider using dwarf morning glory as a ground cover or in hanging baskets for added visual interest.
- Deadheading is not necessary, as spent blooms fall off naturally.
- Divide plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.