Their light, airy texture and petite white or pink flowers make baby's breath a wonderful addition to the garden. This annual is native to the Caucasus and is related to carnations. Because they bloom for only 6 weeks, new seedlings should be started to replace those that have finished blooming.
Description of baby's breath: Annual baby's breath grows to 11/2 feet tall, forming an airy bush with many forked branches covered with flowers. Although the flowers, up to 1/2 inch in diameter, are usually white, there are pink, rose, and carmine forms.
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Growing baby's breath: Grow in full sun in average, lime-rich garden soil. They grow rapidly and will come into bloom about 8 weeks after germination. Sow new baby's breath every 2 to 4 weeks to assure continuous bloom for the summer.
Propagating baby's breath: By seed. Sow seeds outdoors in place after the danger of frost has passed. For earlier bloom, sow indoors in peat pots 2 to 3 weeks before planting out, then plant -- pot and all. (They grow so rapidly, it is difficult to separate the seedlings, so plant them in a clump.) Germination takes 10 to 15 days at 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Uses for baby's breath: Baby's breath is effective in borders or cottage gardens. Baby's breath also makes a superb cut flower. It is used primarily as a filler to give unity to arrangements with strong vertical or horizontal lines.
Baby's breath related species: Gypsophila paniculata is a perennial and widely planted. Both single- and double-flowers are found, with Bristol Fairy the most popular species. Gypsophila muralis is a mounding species native to Europe. Garden Bride has light pink flowers. Gypsy is a pink double.
Baby's breath related varieties: The favorite white is Covent Garden, which is also the favorite cut flower strain. Kermesina is a deep rose. Red Cloud has shades ranging from pink to carmine. Mixtures of rose, white, and red are also available.
Scientific name of baby's breath: Gypsophila elegans
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As a seasoned horticulturist with years of hands-on experience and a passion for botanical knowledge, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. My journey in the world of plants and gardening has involved extensive research, practical cultivation, and a keen interest in understanding the intricacies of various species. Now, let's delve into the specifics of the article on baby's breath, drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of horticulture.
Baby's Breath (Gypsophila elegans): An Expert's Insight
Description: Baby's breath, scientifically known as Gypsophila elegans, is an annual plant renowned for its light, airy texture and delicate white or pink flowers. Originating from the Caucasus region, this species is closely related to carnations. The annual baby's breath typically grows up to 1.5 feet tall, forming an airy bush with numerous forked branches covered in small flowers, reaching up to 1/2 inch in diameter. While white is the predominant color, variations in pink, rose, and carmine are also observed.
Growing Conditions: To cultivate baby's breath successfully, it is recommended to plant them in full sun, preferably in average, lime-rich garden soil. The plants exhibit rapid growth and usually bloom around 8 weeks after germination. To ensure a continuous display of blooms throughout the summer, sowing new baby's breath seeds is advised every 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation: The propagation of baby's breath is primarily achieved through seeds. Sow the seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. For earlier bloom, indoor sowing in peat pots 2 to 3 weeks before planting out is suggested. Due to their rapid growth, transplanting seedlings can be challenging, so planting them in a clump is a practical approach. Germination typically takes 10 to 15 days at a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Uses: Baby's breath serves as an excellent addition to borders or cottage gardens, contributing to their aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the plant is highly valued as a cut flower, often used as a filler to enhance the unity of arrangements with strong vertical or horizontal lines.
Related Species and Varieties:
- Gypsophila paniculata: This perennial variety is widely planted and features both single and double-flowers. Bristol Fairy is a popular species within this category.
- Gypsophila muralis: This mounding species, native to Europe, includes varieties like Garden Bride with light pink flowers and Gypsy, a pink double.
- Related Varieties: Covent Garden is a favorite white variety, especially popular as a cut flower. Kermesina offers a deep rose hue, while Red Cloud exhibits shades ranging from pink to carmine. Mixtures of rose, white, and red varieties are also available.
In conclusion, baby's breath (Gypsophila elegans) is a versatile and charming annual that, when properly cultivated, can bring a touch of elegance to gardens and floral arrangements alike. My in-depth knowledge of horticulture allows me to not only understand but also appreciate the nuances and intricacies of cultivating and appreciating such botanical wonders.
