Creeping Forget-me-not
Myosotis secunda · Boraginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant creeping forget-me-not: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April to June)
- Mature size
- 10–20 cm tall, trailing and spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to –15 °C)
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in organic matter, slightly moist
Care
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist during the growing season, without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter. In pots, water regularly but allow the surface to dry between waterings. Avoid standing water at the base, which can promote rot.
Light exposure
Place your trailing forget-me-not in partial shade or indirect light for optimal flowering. Morning sun is beneficial, but afternoon shade protects the flowers and foliage in warm climates. This plant thrives in partially shaded areas of rock gardens or under light tree cover.
Soil preparation
Enrich the soil with compost or peat to increase moisture retention and fertility. Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) is ideal. Improve drainage in heavy soils by adding sand or fine gravel.
Pruning and cutting
After flowering, pinch back the stems to encourage branching and a more compact habit. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period. In late winter, you can cut back the plant lightly to rejuvenate it and remove dead or weak branches.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced, light, and diluted fertilizer every 15 days during the growing period (April to June). Prioritize potassium-rich fertilizer to support flowering. Stop fertilizing in autumn and winter.
Diseases and pests
Trailing forget-me-not is generally robust. Watch for root rot if humidity is excessive, and aphids during spring growth. Powdery mildew can appear in overly humid and poorly ventilated conditions; improve air circulation and reduce watering frequency.
Did you know?
The forget-me-not gets its name from the Greek words 'mus' (mouse) and 'otis' (ear), as its small soft leaves resemble a mouse's ears. In the Middle Ages, this plant symbolized faithful love and remembrance: lovers would exchange bouquets of forget-me-nots as a promise of eternal devotion.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.