Blooming Beauty: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Four O’Clock Flowers

Four O’Clocks ( _Mirabilis jalapa_ ) are charming, old-fashioned flowers that bring a burst of color and fragrance to the evening garden. Their name comes from their unique habit of opening their blooms in the late afternoon, typically around 4:00 PM, and remaining open throughout the night. These easy-to-grow perennials (in warmer climates) or annuals (in cooler climates) are a favorite among gardeners of all skill levels. With their vibrant hues, delightful fragrance, and simple cultivation requirements, Four O’Clocks are a welcome addition to any garden. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of growing these delightful flowers, from planting to care and propagation.

## Understanding Four O’Clock Flowers

Before diving into the specifics of growing Four O’Clocks, let’s explore what makes them so special.

* **Appearance:** Four O’Clocks are bushy plants that typically grow to a height of 2 to 4 feet and spread about 2 to 3 feet wide. They have oval, heart-shaped leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers that come in a wide array of colors, including pink, red, yellow, white, and even multicolored variations. One plant can even produce flowers of different colors! This is because of their unique genetic makeup that sometimes causes their flower color to change.
* **Fragrance:** Many varieties of Four O’Clocks have a sweet, pleasant fragrance that is especially noticeable in the evening. This makes them a wonderful choice for planting near patios, decks, or windows where you can enjoy their scent.
* **Blooming Season:** Four O’Clocks typically bloom from mid-summer to fall, providing a long season of color in the garden. They are prolific bloomers, producing a constant stream of new flowers throughout the season.
* **Hardiness:** Four O’Clocks are perennials in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, meaning they will come back year after year. In colder climates, they are typically grown as annuals. However, even in colder climates, the tuberous roots can be dug up in the fall and stored indoors over winter for replanting in the spring.
* **Attractiveness to Pollinators:** The fragrant blooms of Four O’Clocks attract a variety of pollinators, including moths, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them a valuable addition to a pollinator garden.

## Choosing the Right Variety

Four O’Clocks come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can choose the ones that best suit your garden design. Some popular varieties include:

* **’Marvel of Peru’:** This is the classic Four O’Clock, known for its vibrant mix of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white.
* **’Broken Colors’:** As the name suggests, this variety features flowers with unique, broken patterns of color.
* **’Limelight’:** This variety has bright green foliage that provides a striking contrast to the colorful flowers.
* **’Alba’:** A pure white flowering variety, perfect for moon gardens or adding brightness to shady areas.
* **’Jingles’:** Known for its compact growth habit, making it suitable for containers.

Consider the color scheme of your garden and the amount of space you have available when choosing a variety. You can also mix and match different varieties to create a vibrant and eye-catching display.

## Planting Four O’Clock Flowers

Four O’Clocks are relatively easy to plant, whether you are starting them from seed or transplanting seedlings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

### 1. Starting from Seed

Starting Four O’Clocks from seed is a cost-effective way to grow a large number of plants. Here’s how:

* **Timing:** Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. You can also direct sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
* **Soaking:** Soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting can improve germination rates.
* **Sowing Indoors:** Fill seed trays or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and gently water them. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
* **Germination:** Place the seed trays in a warm location, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Germination typically takes 7-14 days.
* **Hardening Off:** Before transplanting the seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the amount of time each day.
* **Direct Sowing:** Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 6-12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.

### 2. Transplanting Seedlings

If you started your Four O’Clocks from seed indoors, or purchased seedlings from a nursery, follow these steps to transplant them into your garden:

* **Timing:** Transplant seedlings after the last expected frost.
* **Location:** Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Four O’Clocks will tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
* **Soil Preparation:** Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
* **Planting:** Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling. Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole. Backfill with soil and gently firm it around the base of the plant.
* **Spacing:** Space the seedlings 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.
* **Watering:** Water the newly transplanted seedlings thoroughly to help them establish their roots.

### 3. Planting Tubers

Four O’Clocks grow from tubers, which are similar to bulbs. You can purchase these tubers and plant them directly in the ground. This is a faster way to get established plants compared to starting from seed.

* **Timing:** Plant tubers in the spring after the last frost, similar to transplanting seedlings.
* **Preparation:** Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Amend the soil with compost.
* **Planting:** Dig a hole about 4-6 inches deep. Place the tuber in the hole with the “eyes” (small buds) facing upwards. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
* **Spacing:** Space tubers about 12-18 inches apart.

## Caring for Four O’Clock Flowers

Once your Four O’Clocks are planted, they require relatively little care. Here are some tips to keep them healthy and blooming:

### 1. Watering

* **Frequency:** Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Four O’Clocks prefer consistently moist soil, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch deep. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.

* **Method:** Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can increase the risk of fungal diseases. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system can be helpful.

### 2. Fertilizing

* **Timing:** Fertilize Four O’Clocks every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. A 10-10-10 fertilizer is a good option. Alternatively, you can amend the soil with compost at planting time for a slow-release source of nutrients.

* **Application:** Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.

### 3. Pruning

* **Deadheading:** Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Simply pinch or cut off the faded flowers just below the flower head.

* **Shaping:** You can prune Four O’Clocks to maintain their shape and size. Prune lightly after flowering to remove any dead or damaged stems.
* **Seed Collection:** If you want to collect seeds for next year, allow some of the flowers to mature and form seed pods. Once the pods are dry and brown, you can harvest the seeds. Note that saved seeds might not produce plants identical to the parent plant due to cross-pollination, especially if you grow multiple varieties.

### 4. Pest and Disease Control

Four O’Clocks are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or fungal diseases.

* **Aphids and Spider Mites:** These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spray the affected plants thoroughly, paying attention to the undersides of the leaves.

* **Fungal Diseases:** Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If fungal diseases do occur, treat them with a fungicide.

### 5. Overwintering

In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, Four O’Clocks are perennials and will come back year after year. In colder climates, they are typically grown as annuals. However, you can overwinter the tubers to save them for the next growing season.

* **Digging Up Tubers:** Before the first frost, dig up the tubers carefully, being careful not to damage them.
* **Cleaning and Drying:** Gently remove any excess soil from the tubers and allow them to dry for a few days in a cool, dry place.

* **Storage:** Store the tubers in a cool, dry place, such as a basement or garage. Place them in a paper bag or cardboard box filled with peat moss or vermiculite to prevent them from drying out.
* **Replanting:** In the spring, after the last frost, replant the tubers in your garden.

## Propagating Four O’Clock Flowers

Besides saving seeds and overwintering tubers, Four O’Clocks can also be propagated by cuttings.

### 1. Taking Cuttings

* **Timing:** Take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
* **Selection:** Choose healthy, non-flowering stems.
* **Preparation:** Cut a 4-6 inch section of stem just below a node (where leaves emerge). Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
* **Rooting Hormone:** Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
* **Planting:** Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
* **Humidity:** Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a humidity dome to create a humid environment.
* **Care:** Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
* **Rooting:** Roots should develop in 2-4 weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the garden.

## Using Four O’Clock Flowers in Your Garden

Four O’Clocks are versatile plants that can be used in a variety of garden settings:

* **Borders:** Plant them along borders to add a splash of color and fragrance.

* **Cottage Gardens:** Their old-fashioned charm makes them a perfect addition to cottage gardens.

* **Containers:** They can be grown in containers on patios or balconies.

* **Moon Gardens:** Their fragrant blooms are especially appealing in moon gardens, where they can be enjoyed in the evening.

* **Pollinator Gardens:** Their flowers attract a variety of pollinators, making them a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.

* **Mass Plantings:** Create a dramatic display by planting Four O’Clocks in large groups.

## Common Problems and Solutions

While generally easy to grow, here are some common problems you might encounter with Four O’Clocks, and how to address them:

* **Lack of Blooms:**
* **Problem:** Insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing, or overcrowding.
* **Solution:** Ensure plants receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Reduce fertilizer applications, especially nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Thin out plants to improve air circulation.

* **Yellowing Leaves:**
* **Problem:** Overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency.
* **Solution:** Improve soil drainage by amending with compost or perlite. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.

* **Leggy Growth:**
* **Problem:** Insufficient sunlight, excessive shade.
* **Solution:** Move plants to a sunnier location. Prune back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.

* **Pests (Aphids, Spider Mites):**
* **Problem:** Infestation by common garden pests.
* **Solution:** Spray plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage, especially on the undersides of leaves. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation.

* **Fungal Diseases (Powdery Mildew):**
* **Problem:** Humid conditions, poor air circulation.
* **Solution:** Improve air circulation by thinning out plants and avoiding overhead watering. Apply a fungicide if the problem persists.

* **Failure to Germinate (Seeds):**
* **Problem:** Old seeds, improper planting depth, insufficient moisture.
* **Solution:** Use fresh seeds. Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination. Ensure seeds are planted at the correct depth (about 1/4 inch). Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

## Fun Facts About Four O’Clocks

* Four O’Clocks are also known as the “Marvel of Peru” because they were first introduced to Europe from Peru in the 16th century.

* The flowers open in the late afternoon and remain open until the next morning, attracting nocturnal pollinators like moths.

* One plant can produce flowers of different colors, which is a result of a genetic phenomenon called “variegation.”

* The seeds are poisonous and should not be ingested.

* The roots can be used as a dye.

## Conclusion

Four O’Clock flowers are a delightful addition to any garden, offering vibrant colors, a sweet fragrance, and a long blooming season. Their ease of care and versatility make them a favorite among gardeners of all levels. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow these charming flowers and enjoy their beauty for years to come. So, go ahead and add some Four O’Clocks to your garden and watch them bloom into a spectacle of color and fragrance every evening!