How to Grow Flare Deep Blue
Flare Deep Blue
Ipomoea purpurea
vineFlare Deep Blue is a stunning morning glory cultivar featuring deep blue flowers with dramatic red-purple central stars and white picotee edges. This vigorous climbing vine produces abundant blooms throughout the growing season and is perfect for trellises, arbors, and fences. The flowers typically open in early morning and close by afternoon, creating a dynamic display in the garden.
When should you plant Flare Deep Blue in your zone?
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Example Flare Deep Blue timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Flare Deep Blue
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Flare Deep Blue
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Flare Deep Blue dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; grows as a tender annual in cooler regions
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Germination
7-14 daysSeeds sprout and develop first true leaves; vine is still small and tender
Soak seeds for 2-4 hours or scarify lightly to improve germination; keep soil warm (70-80°F); maintain consistent moisture
Seedling
2-3 weeksYoung vine develops 2-4 true leaves and begins to elongate; plant is still fragile
Provide bright light to prevent legginess; thin to strongest seedlings; begin gentle support structure placement
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksVine rapidly climbs and develops dense foliage; strong stem growth with multiple lateral branches
Guide vines onto trellis or support structure; water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; prune to encourage bushiness if desired
Flowering
8-12 weeks (until frost)Abundant deep blue flowers with red-purple stars appear at leaf axils; flowers open early morning and close by afternoon
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage more flowers; deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering; provide consistent water and support for heavy vine
Seed Production & Decline
Until first hard frostPlant produces round seed pods as flowering slows; foliage may yellow with frost approach
Allow some flowers to set seed if collecting seeds; collect seed pods before frost; compost spent vines at season's end
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; maintain good air circulation; use yellow sticky traps
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Increase humidity; spray with water or miticide; use neem oil every 7-10 days if needed
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and
Handpick in early morning; use copper tape barriers; apply diatomaceous earth around base
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryMorning glory flowers are edible and can add vibrant color to salads and garnishes. The petals have a slightly sweet flavor and are beautiful when used fresh in decorative presentations. [source]
Garden Decoration & Screening
OrnamentalFlare Deep Blue creates dramatic vertical interest and stunning visual impact on arbors, trellises, and fences. The abundant blue flowers with distinctive patterning make it an exceptional choice for cottage gardens and cut flower arrangements. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, providing essential nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. A valuable addition to pollinator gardens. [source]
Cut Flowers
HouseholdMorning glory flowers make beautiful fresh cut flower arrangements, though they typically last only one day. Cutting them very early in the morning ensures the longest vase life. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIpomoea species have been used in traditional medicine in various cultures, though modern use should be cautious and informed. Seeds contain alkaloids and should not be ingested without proper knowledge. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Enjoy flowers throughout the season as they bloom; flowers are best observed early in the morning when fully open. To collect seeds, allow some flowers to develop into mature brown seed pods in late summer/fall; harvest pods when dry and brown but before they burst open naturally
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Morning glories earned their name because their flowers characteristically open at sunrise and close by mid-afternoon on the same day, making them a true 'morning glory'
- 🌱 Flare Deep Blue's distinctive two-toned patterning with the deep blue petals and contrasting red-purple star at the center serves as a nectar guide for pollinators
- 🌱 Morning glory seeds were historically used by various cultures in religious and ceremonial contexts due to the alkaloids they contain
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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