Double Moss Rose Purslane Seeds

Surface-sow portulaca grandiflora seeds directly on the soil - do not bury them, just gently press them into the soil. Double Moss Rose seeds must have light to germinate. Mix the Purslane seeds with a little dry sand to distribute them over a bed. The soil temperature must be between 65°F and 80°F, below that, expect slow, patchy results. At the right temperature, sprouts appear in 7-14 days. With Double Moss Rose, the germination percentage is over 90%. If the weather is still cool, start the Portulaca grandiflora indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. When nighttime temperatures remain above 55°F, transplant the Portulaca outdoors.

It prefers full sun, at least 6-8 hours per day. In partial shade, the double flowered Moss Roses become leggy and bloom poorly. Sandy, well-draining soil, preferably loam, is best. Rich, retentive soil causes root rot, and that happens fast. Established plants require watering only once a week, as they are succulents that store water in the stems. In a heat wave, check containers often, but in-ground plants have no problem with drought.

Deadheading is not really necessary as Portulaca grandiflora double flowered varieties drop the spent blooms naturally and flower again. What is important is not to overwater and not to overfertilize. Too much fertilizer promotes foliage growth rather than blooms. Add light feed when you plant moss rose seeds, and that's enough. Collect seeds in the fall from the open blooms if you wish to save them for the next year. One interesting fact about Double Moss Rose flowers is that they close at night and on cloudy days.