Grow this heirloom climber, known as the Cardinal Climber, from freshly harvested Ipomoea x multifida vine seeds. Cardinal Climber is a popular vine that grows to a mature length of 10 to 15 feet long. The vines will wrap around a fence or trellis in a matter of a few short weeks, producing beautiful & stunning, red, trumpet shaped blooms. The plants will bloom profusely through the summer months, up until fall and are very attractive to hummingbirds in particular. They are also known to attract an array of other beneficial insects to the garden as well, such as butterflies, ladybugs & bumblebees.
Cardinal Climber is categorized as an annual flowering vine. Meaning that they will grow quickly from seed, bloom profusely, and later die with the first frost. They are suitable for post and large containers and can be planted anywhere that they can creep up. Grow these beauties with an array of other vining plants, such as the Morning Glory, Thunbergia, or Nasturtium, Canary Creeper as well.
Sowing The Seed
Cardinal Climber seeds should be prepped by a method of scarification and/or soaking, prior to sowing. Nick the seeds with sandpaper or a knife and soak in warm water, for 24 hours. If starting indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Place the seeds at a depth of 1/2″ under topsoil. Transplant, or direct sow into the garden when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Cardinal Climber plants will thrive in the heat of summer and prefer an area of full sunlight. Temperatures should be at least 70F or higher. The soil should be average to sandy, but also well drained. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. Water the seeds daily until germination has occurred, watering less frequently as time goes on.
Germination & Growth
Cardinal Climber seeds typically germinate within roughly 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants are known to grow and establish with the support of a fence or trellis. Each vine can grow to a mature length of 10 to 15 feet long, displaying small, trumpet shaped flowers all summer long. Each plant can be spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart, depending on the thickness of coverage you desire. Cardinal Climbers are known to attract all sorts of beneficial insects to the garden, such as butterflies, bumblebees, honeybees & hummingbirds.