Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata) - seeds

Sowing instructions:

Before you start sowing, choose a location that is partially to fully exposed to the sun and has well-drained soil. The ideal time for sowing is in spring, after any risk of frost has passed.

1. Preparation of the floor: Loosen the soil well and remove any weeds and stones. Lobelia inflata prefers a slightly acidic soil, so it can be helpful to work in some peat or compost to optimize the pH value.
2. Sowing: Scatter the Lobelia inflata seeds evenly on the surface of the soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. Press the soil down gently to ensure good contact between the seeds and the soil.
3. Irrigation: Keep the soil evenly moist during germination by watering regularly. Be careful not to soak the soil to avoid waterlogging, as this can impair germination.
4. Germination: Germination may vary depending on conditions and seed quality. Keep the sowing site moist and warm (ideally between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius) to promote germination.

Tips and tricks:

• Transplantation: As soon as the seedlings are large enough and have at least two pairs of true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into larger pots or directly into the open ground.
• Regular pruning: Lobelia inflata can benefit from regular pruning to promote compact growth and abundant flowering. Remove faded flowers and prune long shoots to encourage growth.
• Medical use: Lobelia inflata is traditionally valued for its medicinal properties, especially for relieving respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. Find out how to use and process it to make the most of its benefits.

Worth knowing:

• Lobelia inflata is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that is native to North America and belongs to the bellflower family.
• The plant produces delicate blue flowers that are arranged in upright spikes and make an attractive sight in the garden.
• Native American tobacco was traditionally used as a medicinal plant by indigenous peoples in North America and is still valued by some herbalists today.