Snow Crystals Alyssum

Start seeds indoors in flats or seed trays under grow lights or in a bright window. Maintain soil temperatures around 60-70°F for germination. Sow seeds shallowly, pressing them lightly into the soil surface. Seedlings typically emerge in 7-14 days. Begin hardening off transplants 7-10 days before moving them outdoors, gradually exposing them to wind and direct sun.

Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed and nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F. Space plants 6 inches apart. Alyssum seedlings establish quickly and can tolerate light frosts, so they're safe to plant once night temperatures are consistently mild. Water gently after transplanting to settle soil around roots.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date and soil has warmed slightly. Press seeds lightly into prepared soil, keep moist until germination, which typically occurs in 7-14 days. Thin seedlings to 6-inch spacing once they have their first true leaves.

Pinch back young plants when they reach 3-4 inches tall to encourage bushier, more mounded growth with more flowering stems. Deadhead faded flowers regularly throughout the season to maintain compact form and promote continuous blooming. Light shearing after the first flush of flowers can rejuvenate plants and trigger a second wave of blooms.