Mertensia maritima (Vegetable oyster): Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
When and how should you sow oysterleaf outdoors?
Sow oysterleaf, Mertensia maritima, according to the seed lot's requirements. Autumn sowing left outdoors provides cold exposure before possible spring emergence. At another season, some seed needs moist cold preparation. Do not confuse this germination requirement with putting young plants straight into frozen soil.
Outdoor sowing in pots makes slow or uneven emergence easier to monitor. Choose drainage holes and a fine, very freely draining medium with a mineral component. Moisten before distributing seeds, then cover lightly according to guidance. Keep a readable label. Place outdoors in a cool, bright position, protected from rain that would wash out seed and from slugs.
Maintain slight moisture without standing water or complete drying. Do not quickly discard an apparently empty pot: emergence can be spread out, and cold does not guarantee simultaneous shoots. Check regularly without disturbing the medium. Once seedlings can be handled, space or transplant gently while preserving roots. Avoid strong heat and scorching sun on the small container. Living beside the sea is not necessary to grow this species.
When and how should you plant oysterleaf?
When does oysterleaf flower and how do you follow its flowering?
How to maintain and trim oysterplant
When and how do you harvest oysterleaf leaves?
