Forget-me-nots are one of the classic spring flowers. The plant belongs to the borage family ( Boraginaceae ) and has a slightly hairy leaf. There are many legends and myths about the plant Myosotis and hardly any name in the language of flowers is as obvious as that of forget-me-not. As a gift, the variety can symbolize loyalty, togetherness and love, but it can also stand for farewell and remembrance. The classic is particularly popular as a herald of spring in the garden, on the balcony or in the cemetery. The plants bloom without much carefor many weeks and bring a very special atmosphere to any combination with the unique blue. The species can also be used as a decoration in the house for a short time, but its durability is comparable to that of cut flowers. The delicate cut flowers can often be found in bouquets and flower arrangements in spring.

Botanical name: Myosotis sylvatica
Other names: forget-me-not, mouse- eared bat
Use: balcony plant, bowl planting, bedding plant, cemetery planting, bee pasture
Origin: Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, North America
Flower colors: light blue, blue, dark blue, white, pink
Flowering time: March to the beginning of June
Special features: With a large number of small flowers, the classic convinces in spring. In addition to the group of bedding plants, there are perennial forget-me-nots. The cultivation of Myosotis sylvatica from seeds is easy.

In which location does the forget-me-not feel most comfortable?

Outdoors

Effective outdoor plantings can be realized with Myosotis from March. The colorful splendor can be planted in window boxes, baskets, bowls or in flower beds and the cemetery. Bright, but also semi-shady and shady locations with sufficient moisture and a loose structure are optimal. The flowering period is shortened in sunny locations.

in the house

For a short time, the spring classics are also suitable as houseplants. The herbaceous plants do well in a bright, not too sunny location. The cooler the seasonal plant is, the longer it blooms. A house entrance that is not too warm or the stairwell is ideal. In the heated living room, the forget-me-not is a floral decoration comparable to a bouquet, the flowers of which have faded after 1 to 2 weeks at temperatures of over 20 °C.

How do I plant my forget-me-nots in the garden?

Myosotis can easily be placed in pots or transplanted into larger boxes and containers. By repotting, you give the flowering plant a larger volume of soil and reduce the effort required for watering. However, repotting is not absolutely necessary. Use good quality potting soil for repotting and add a layer of expanded clay to the container for better drainage. When planting on the bed, it is also advisable to use potting soil.

Our tip: The blue forget-me-not looks best with bright yellow. Horny violets, gold lacquer or daffodils are therefore suitable for combination. The popular bedding and group plant only unfolds its full effect when planted extensively. Use 9 to 15 pieces per square meter or combine with other types. Leave a distance of 10 to 15 cm between each plant.

How do I water and care for my Myosotis sylvatica?

An even water supply is important after planting in the spring. The soil should never dry out completely, but waterlogging must also be avoided. The so -called demand- oriented watering means the even moisture in the soil. How often you have to water depends largely on the location and the radiation. Further maintenance work is not necessary. Fertilization is also not necessary when using high-quality potting soil. If the plant remains in the ground after flowering, self-seeding can easily occur and the plants die.

Care tip: If the plants have multiplied by self-sowing in the garden, the herbaceous plants will grow in the right location until autumn. Brushwood protects the biennial plant in severe frost.

What other types of myosotis are there?

In addition to Myosotis sylvatica, there are varieties that, as perennials, can be enjoyed for decades in the same place with mostly blue flowers in late spring. The best-known representative is the Caucasian forget-me-not (Brunnera macrophylla). The relationship with the biennial species can be seen from the shape of the flowers. With green, heart-shaped foliage, the perennial is decorative from the time it sprout in March to autumn and is ideal for partially shaded locations. A special feature is the ‘Jack Frost’ variety, whose leaves are white-green variegated or silver-colored and bring special contrasts to the planting.

diseases and pests

Given optimal conditions and good care, diseases and pests are very rare on Myosotis. Sometimes gray mold or powdery mildew occurs. Both are fungal diseases that only cause visual damage, but are of no further concern in the home garden.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Myosotis

Which plants are suitable for the combination?

All spring plants such as primroses, pansies, horned violets, wallflowers, daisies, tulips or daffodils and grasses, ivy, boxwood, small conifers and structural plants are ideal for the combination.

How are myosotis protected in winter?

All Myosotis species are hardy. The best protection is your own leaves and some brushwood. In the case of perennial forget-me-nots, the old foliage should only be removed in the spring.

How are myosotis reproduced?

The most common method of propagation is by seed. A division is not possible.

When are forget-me-nots sown?

Sowing takes place from April to the end of July. The earlier you sow, the stronger the young plants will grow. If you want to get the seeds after flowering, direct sowing is possible. It is important when sowing that you do not cover the seed with soil, as it is a matter of so-called light germs. The hardy plants develop green rosettes in the first year and the mostly sky-blue flowers appear the next year. The plants are hardy in the garden, but not perennial, ie they die after flowering. To prevent spread in the garden it is important that you prune the plants immediately after flowering so that the seednot mature. The seed can be germinated for up to 5 years if stored properly (dry and dark).

Where does the name Myosotis come from?

The name Myosotis comes from the Greek and means mouse ear, which probably refers to the mouse-ear-like leaves.