Mignonette
reseda odorata
Also known as: ["Mignonette","Sweet Reseda"]
Overview
A fragrant flowering plant known for its sweet-smelling blossoms.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Resedaceae |
| Genus: | Reseda |
| Botanical Name: | Reseda odorata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 6–8 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in cool conditions; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild heat but dislikes frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid foliage contact; fertilize after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to prolong flowering.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or weak stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out crowded roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and blooming.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure adequate warmth and light.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicReseda odorata is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicReseda odorata is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicReseda odorata, commonly known as mignonette, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow Mignonette from seeds?
A: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in a sunny location after the last frost.
Q: What is the best way to use Mignonette's fragrance?
A: Plant it near windows or walkways to enjoy its scent.
Q: Does Mignonette attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Resedaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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