Ipomoea rubricoerulea Clark’s Blue

Ipomoea rubrocaerulea, commonly known as Clark's Blue morning glory, is a climbing vine appreciated for its striking blue flowers. Here's a guide on how to grow Ipomoea rubrocaerulea 'Clark's Blue':

**1. Planting Time:**
- Plant morning glory seeds outdoors after the last expected frost when the soil has warmed up. These plants are typically grown as annuals in colder climates.

**2. Sunlight:**
- Morning glories thrive in full sunlight. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.

**3. Soil Preparation:**
- Use well-draining soil with good fertility. Morning glories can adapt to various soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0 to 7.0).
- Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil can improve its structure and fertility.

**4. Sowing Seeds:**
- Plant morning glory seeds about ½ inch deep and space them according to the recommended spacing on the seed packet.
- Water the soil well after planting to initiate germination.

**5. Watering:**
- Keep the soil consistently moist until the plants are established. Once established, morning glories are somewhat drought-tolerant.
- Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to diseases.

**6. Support:**
- Morning glories are climbing vines and will benefit from a support structure such as a trellis, arbor, or fence. Provide support early to help them climb.

**7. Fertilizing:**
- Morning glories are not heavy feeders, but you can apply a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

**8. Pruning:**
- Prune or pinch back the plants to encourage bushiness and more flower production. This is especially important if the plants become too leggy.

**9. Deadheading:**
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. This prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production.

**10. Pests and Diseases:**
- Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly.
- Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Morning glories are generally hardy and resistant to most diseases.

**11. Winter Care:**
- Morning glories are typically grown as annuals, and they will complete their life cycle in one growing season. Collect seeds if you want to save them for the next year.

**12. Harvesting Seeds:**
- If you want to collect seeds, allow some of the flowers to mature and form seed pods. Harvest the pods once they turn brown and the seeds are mature.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow Ipomoea rubrocaerulea 'Clark's Blue' and enjoy its vibrant blue flowers climbing in your garden. Morning glories are known for their rapid growth and stunning display of flowers, making them a popular choice for vertical gardening.