Expert: Mike Mascio - 7/25/2009

Question
Hello,
I have been trying to grow morning glories with no luck. The plants hardly grow and the leaves turn yellow and die off. They are in a sunny spot in my garden, and the earth is mulchy.I live in Wisconsin. I have seen these plants grow to great height and are covered in beautiful flowers. What could I be doing wrong?
Thank you so kindly,
Cindy

Answer
It sounds like your soil lacks the necessary nutrients needed for the plants to grow. Morning glories, like all annuals, need a very fertile soil high in phosphorus. They also need a ph level that is neutral (7.0).

To correct this condition, you must amend the soil in the spring with compost, aged manure, and peat. You will also need to supplement the feeding with a water-soluble fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Miracle-gro makes a product called Bloom Booster. I have found this product to be very effective at stimulating heavy blooming and strong growth. Attached is a link to the product, but it can be purchased at any garden center.

http://www.scotts.com/smg/catalog/productTemplate.jsp?proId=prod70352

I hope this information helps. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike