How to grow Lunaria (Honesty) Seeds
Lunaria, commonly known as "money plant" or "silver dollar plant," is a unique and beautiful flowering plant known for its striking, translucent seed pods. Here's how to plant and grow Lunaria seeds:
Start by choosing a location with well-draining, fertile soil and partial to full sun. Lunaria thrives in a spot that gets about 4-6 hours of sunlight each day but can tolerate light shade as well. The plant prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5). You can start Lunaria seeds indoors or sow them directly outdoors.
If starting indoors, sow the seeds about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Place the seeds on the surface of the soil, as they need light to germinate, and press them gently into the soil without covering them. Keep the seed tray in a warm location at around 18-21°C, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. The seeds should begin to germinate in 14-21 days. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden after the last frost, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
If sowing directly outdoors, wait until after the last frost in your area and the soil has warmed up. Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil and adding compost for fertility. Sow the seeds on the surface, pressing them gently into the soil. Thin the seedlings to about 30 cm apart once they’ve grown large enough. Water consistently to keep the soil moist during the germination period, but avoid waterlogging the soil.
Lunaria is a relatively low-maintenance plant once established. It is drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry periods. Regularly remove any spent flowers to encourage new growth. Fertilizing is not generally needed unless the soil is very poor—if desired, a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can boost growth.
Lunaria plants typically grow 60-90 cm tall and produce lovely purple or white flowers in the spring, followed by the iconic, silvery seed pods that resemble coins. These seed pods are often harvested and used in dried arrangements. Lunaria is biennial, meaning it will bloom in its second year, so be patient and enjoy the growing process.