When to Plant Chinese Lantern Seeds

Sow in the Spring after all threat of frost has passed – if there is a potential of frost, use a cold frame for this variety. In very warm zones, 8-10, Fall planting of Chinese Lanterns is also an option. You can also start them indoors, in late Winter or early Spring.

Where to Plant Chinese Lantern Seeds

Average, moist, well-draining soil is optimal for Chinese Lanterns. Richer soils may cause a faster spread than is ideal for this variety, so there are benefits to growing this in more moderate soil. Chinese lanterns prefer Full Sun, but will tolerate Partial Shade. However, in warmer climates, like zones 8-10, Partial Shade is better.

How to Plant Chinese Lantern Seeds

Chinese Lantern seeds require light to germinate, so be careful not to cover them when planting. Learn more about germination light requirements here.

Sow your seeds directly onto the surface of the soil, and compress. Do not cover your seeds, as they will require sunlight to germinate. Chinese Lanterns are a prolific seeders, so keep that in mind as you select your site. This variety takes notoriously long to germinate, as long as 3-4 weeks.

How to Care for Chinese Lantern

It is essential you keep the soil moist for Chinese Lanterns. If the plants become leggy, it’s alright to cut them back so they can start fresh. Once they die back at the end of the season, cut the growth back down all the way to the surface of the soil.