Whirlybird Mix
40d to harvest
A whirl of color in the garden—Whirlybird Mix bursts with vivid, warm blooms that open like little pinwheels and carry a peppery, bright bite. The tender leaves are crisp and pleasantly pungent, while the flower petals add a lively, tangy accent that shines in fresh salads and garnishes. Grow it for a quick, 40-day show: a pollinator-friendly cover that keeps flowering as it sprawls, perfect for adding instant color and flavor to beds, borders, and containers.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Direct Sow |
| Last Frost | May 15th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 15th |
| Harvest Begins | Jun 24th |
| Harvest Ends | Sep 1st |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 40 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Spreading |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 65 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Tropaeolum majus during the main growing phase?
Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, aiming for consistently lightly moist soil rather than wet conditions. During active flowering, this typically means watering about 2–3 times per week in warm weather, but less often if it rains or soil stays cool. Avoid keeping the soil waterlogged, which increases the risk of root problems and leaf spotting.
How do I know when Tropaeolum majus is ready to harvest?
Harvest seed pods and flowers based on maturity: flowers are best when fully open and fragrant, usually starting around 40 days from sowing. For seed, pick pods when they turn green-to-brown and feel firm, before they fully dry and drop. For continuous blooms, harvest flowers regularly and remove spent blossoms to encourage more flowering.