Morning Glory belongs to the Convolvulaceae family, which encompasses over 1,000 species. The Morning Glory, scientifically known as Ipomoea spp., is a stunning flowering plant that has captured the hearts of gardeners and nature lovers alike. Its common name, “Morning Glory,” comes from the unique characteristic of its flowers, which bloom early in the morning and close by the afternoon or evening.
Renowned for its vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms and heart-shaped leaves, this plant brings a splash of color to any garden, fence, or trellis. But Morning Glory is more than just a pretty face; it’s a resilient and easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in various environments with the right care. Originating from tropical and subtropical regions, the plant is well-adapted to warm climates.
Popular Types of Morning Glory
Here’s a brief overview of popular Morning Glory types:
- Ipomoea tricolor (Heavenly Blue): Sky-blue flowers with a white/yellow center; large, vibrant blooms; ideal for trellises.
- Ipomoea purpurea (Common Morning Glory):Comes in purple, pink, blue, and white; prolific bloomer; easy to grow.
- Ipomoea nil (Japanese Morning Glory): Wide color range with unique patterns; prized in Japanese gardens.
- Ipomoea alba (Moonflower): Large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night; perfect for evening gardens.
- Ipomoea lobata (Spanish Flag): Cascading red to yellow flowers; adds striking color to gardens.
- Ipomoea quamoclit (Cypress Vine): Delicate, star-shaped red, pink, or white flowers; feathery, fern-like foliage.
- Ipomoea batatas (Sweet Potato Vine): Ornamental foliage in various colors; used for ground cover or containers.
- Ipomoea indica (Blue Morning Glory): Deep blue to purple flowers; vigorous climber, great for large areas.
| Common Name | Morning glory, common morning glory |
| Botanical Name | Ipomoea purpurea |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial, annual |
| Mature Size | 6–10 ft. tall, 3–6 ft. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full |
| Soil Type | Moist, well-drained |
| Soil pH | Neutral, acidic |
| Bloom Time | Summer, fall |
| Flower Color | Purple, pink, blue, white |
| Hardiness Zones | 2–11 (USDA) |
| Native Area | North America |
| Toxicity | Toxic to people, pets |
Care
Choosing the Right Variety
When growing Morning Glory indoors, it’s important to choose a variety that is well-suited for container growth. Smaller, compact varieties such as Ipomoea purpurea or Ipomoea tricolor are ideal choices. These varieties are more manageable indoors and still provide the beautiful blooms that Morning Glory is known for.
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Indoor Morning Glory
Selecting the Container
Choose a container with good drainage, as Morning Glory does not like to sit in waterlogged soil. A pot with a diameter of at least 12 inches is recommended to give the roots enough room to spread. Make sure the pot has drainage holes.
Soil Preparation
Use potting soil that drains well and has a pH that ranges from slightly acidic to neutral. To enhance drainage, add some sand or perlite. Morning Glory prefers soil that is not too rich in nutrients, as overly fertile soil can lead to more foliage at the expense of blooms.
Planting Seeds
Before planting, soak the seeds in water overnight to soften their hard outer shell and improve germination. Sow the seeds a quarter of an inch deep in the ground. Water the soil lightly to keep it moist, but avoid overwatering. Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot, as Morning Glory needs warmth and light to germinate.
Light Requirements
Morning Glory requires plenty of sunlight to thrive indoors. Place the pot near a south-facing window where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If natural light is insufficient, you can supplement it with a grow light to ensure the plant gets enough light for healthy growth.
Watering
Water the plant frequently, making sure the soil is continuously damp but not swampy. Water the plant periodically, keeping the soil moist but not saturated. Morning Glory prefers slightly dry conditions between waterings, so allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Take care not to overwater since this can cause rot in the roots.
Providing Support
Even indoors, Morning Glory is a climber and will need support. Place a small trellis, bamboo stakes, or other vertical supports in the pot to allow the vines to climb. You can also train the vines to grow along a nearby window or wall, creating a beautiful display.
Temperature and Humidity
Morning Glory thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). While it can tolerate lower temperatures, growth may slow down. Indoor humidity levels should be moderate; avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating vents that could dry out the air.
Fertilization
Indoor Morning Glory does not require heavy fertilization. During the spring and summer growing seasons, feed the plant once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning will help manage the plant’s size and encourage more blooms. Trim back leggy growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Pruning also encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too large for its indoor space.
Pests
While indoor plants are less prone to pests, Morning Glory can sometimes attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant, and if you notice any pests, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keeping the plant healthy with proper care will help prevent infestations.
Additional Tips
- Rotate the Pot: To ensure even growth, rotate the pot every few days so that all sides of the plant receive adequate light.
- Watch for Overgrowth: Morning Glory can grow rapidly, so be prepared to trim and train the vines regularly to keep them manageable indoors.
- Winter Care: If you live in a colder climate, ensure the plant stays away from cold drafts or windows during the winter months. The plant may enter a dormant phase during winter, with reduced growth and fewer blooms, which is normal.
Growing Morning Glory indoors is a wonderful way to bring the beauty of this flowering vine into your home. With proper care, including adequate light, water, and support, your indoor Morning Glory can thrive, offering stunning blooms that brighten any room. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these tips will help you successfully cultivate and enjoy Morning Glory in your indoor garden.