Painted Tongue Care
Painted tongue grows best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. In areas with hot summer temperatures, choose a planting place that receives afternoon shade. This relief from the hot sun will help painted tongue survive through summer and bloom again in fall. Painted tongue is usually started from transplants purchased in early spring. Seeds can be started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date. Acclimate young seedlings by placing them in a protected location outside when plants are several inches tall. Bring them inside at night if there is a chance of frost. Apply a 1- to 2-inch-thick layer of mulch around the base of plants shortly after planting to keep roots cool and prevent soil moisture loss. Remove spent flowers as time allows to encourage additional blooms. Stake tall plants with a bamboo stake and twine if needed.
New Innovations
Heirloom varieties that were lost from commerce for decades have been recently reintroduced to gardeners. Many are available by seed. For a successful planting, be sure to start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date.
