Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' Verbascum 'Norfolk Dawn'

Water

The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' prefers a moderate watering schedule, generally requiring watering once a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of about an inch. It's important not to overwater, as the plant is drought-tolerant and excess moisture can lead to root rot. During the hotter, drier months, you may need to increase the frequency to keep the soil from drying out completely. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering; if it is dry to the touch, it's time to water, using about one gallon of water per plant.

Light

The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sun each day, so planting it in a spot that receives ample sunlight throughout the day is ideal. Avoid shaded areas, as insufficient sunlight can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.

Temperature

The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' does well in a garden in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9, which corresponds to minimum winter temperatures between -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit and 30 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for growing this plant ranges from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and it can tolerate high summer temperatures as long as proper watering is maintained.

Pruning

The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks and encourage a tidy growth habit. It's best to prune after the blooming period, typically in late summer or fall. Regular removal of old flowers can sometimes stimulate a second bloom. Additionally, remove any damaged or diseased foliage as needed to maintain plant health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mulllein 'Norfolk Dawn' prefers well-draining soil with a loamy or sandy composition, enriched with organic matter. The ideal soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, around 6.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' does not require frequent repotting and can often be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot.

Humidity & Misting

Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels but thrives best in conditions that are not excessively humid; typical room humidity is usually adequate for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light; well-draining soil mix.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil; water when dry.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm soil with sufficient sunlight and moisture. After germination, it enters the seedling stage, characterized by the emergence of its first leaves. As it grows, it develops into a rosette of large, hairy leaves at ground level during its first year, in a vegetative state. In the second year, it progresses into the flowering stage, sending up a tall flower spike adorned with an array of colorful blossoms, usually pink with a plum centre, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the plant sets seeds which are dispersed by wind, completing its reproductive cycle. The Mullein 'Norfolk Dawn' is a biennial plant and typically dies after seed dispersal, although it can live longer in favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Verbascum 'Norfolk Dawn', also known as Mullein, is by sowing seeds. To propagate Mulleins by seeds, start by sowing them on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix in pots or trays during late winter or early spring. The seeds need light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil but can be gently pressed into the medium to ensure good contact. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the containers in a warm area with plenty of light. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks at temperatures between 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.