A short-lived perennial twining climber to 5m tall, usually grown as an annual. Leaves are heart-shaped or three-lobed. Flowers borne from summer into early autumn are funnel-shaped, 3-6cm in diameter and deep purple to bluish-purple or a reddish-purple with white throats. Sow seeds between February and April under glass in a gentle heat, or straight outdoors during May for flowering through July to September. They germinate freely but it's a good idea to soak the seeds in water before sowing. Use a decent peat-free seed compost, sow in March to April and pot on after germination, support with pea sticks as they start to grow. Harden off and plant out after all danger of frost. It’s important not to plant out too early as chilly winds will check these plants and slow down their progress. June 1st is a good mark to hit.  After planting out ipomoea seedlings, water well as they establish, once the plants start to grow and climb, little watering is required. Although a good organic mulch, not to thick will help keep moisture around surface roots. To keep the plant strong and robust ipomoea will enjoy a good foliar feed of potash to boost flower production, a tomato feed will suffice. Keep your morning glory vine plants free of weeds, especially when they are young. They are delicate plants to touch so make sure you weed around them with care