What is Kiss-Me-Over-the-Garden-Gate Plant?
Kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate (Polygonum orientale or Persicaria orientale) used to be very popular in the U.S. Originally from China, it was a particular favorite of Thomas Jefferson. As time went on and the popularity of compact, easily transplanted flowers grew, the kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate flower fell out of favor. It’s making a comeback now though, as more gardeners are learning about its benefits.
Kiss-Me-Over-the-Garden-Gate Info
Kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate is a very fast-growing annual that self-seeds in the fall. Once you’ve planted it, you’re likely to have the flower in that spot for years to come. While the plant can grow up to 7 feet (2 m.) tall and 4 feet (1 m.) wide, it rarely, if ever, needs to be staked. The kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate flower blooms in 3-inch (7.5 cm.) long spiky clusters that hang pendulously in shades of red to white to magenta.
Care for Kiss-Me-Over-the-Garden-Gate
Care for kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate is very simple. It grows fast and transplants poorly, so you won’t find seedlings in the store. Seeds need to be chilled before they germinate, so store them in the fridge for a few weeks beforehand in the spring or sow them directly in the ground if you acquire them in the fall. Sow them by pressing the seeds lightly into the soil in a place that receives full sun. Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them to one every 18 inches (45.5 cm.). In 100 days, you should have blooms that continue to the fall frost. Growing kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate plants have very few pest problems. The only real danger comes from Japanese beetles, which may be drawn to the leaves. If you notice that some of your leaves are skeletonized, place traps and lures around the outside of your property to guide them away from your plants.
