Quick Reference:

Annual, a plant that completes it’s life cycle in one season. For improved germination soak seed 24 hours in warm water before planting. Plant seed 1/4 inch deep spaced 1 to 2 inches apart. Germinates in 10-14 days with an optimum soil temperature of 70 degrees F. Ideal spacing of vines in the garden is 4 to 6 inches. Plant height: 6 to 8 feet or higher.

When and where to plant:

Canary bird vine prefers to be planted where it will grow all summer, it has tender roots and must be transplanted with care. Select a location in full sun or partial shade with any ordinary, well-drained soil, cultivate, enrich the soil with plant food and plant the seed after the danger of frost is past. In Alaska, because canary bird vine needs a long season to climb and bloom, it is recommended that the seed be started indoors in individual plastic pots, 4 to 5 weeks before the last frost. Fill pots that have drainage holes, with sterilized potting soil, soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours immediately before planting to improve germination, Do Not soak longer, plant 1 or 2 seeds per pot, firm soil over seed, water well, keep moist until seedlings emerge. When seedlings show their first green leaves water with a liquid solution of plant food and place pots to grow in full sun. Keep soil moist, water with a liquid solution of plant food every two weeks and grow indoors until the garden is ready. After the last frost, dig a hole in the garden for the seedling, fill it with water, carefully slide the moist root ball out of the plastic pot, transplant it in the hole making sure the roots are not injured and press the soil around the root ball. Immediately water the plant well to help reduce transplant shock.

Care:

Apply plant food sparingly and do not over water, canary bird vine does not like the soggy ground. Where appropriate, provide support for vines. Tolerates drought.