key growing information

How to Grow Baby's Breath (Gypsophila)

How to grow gypsophila (baby's breath) from seed: succession sowing, direct sowing or transplants, lean soil, and cutting stage.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Gypsophila (Baby's Breath) - Key Growing Information

Gypsophila, more commonly known as baby's breath, forms cloud-like mounds of tiny white flowers.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Seedlings appear in about 7–14 days at 70–72°F (21–22°C).

SOWING:

Plant every 2 weeks for steady blooms all summer.
Direct seed (recommended): After the last frost, sow 1/8" deep, barely covering the seed.
Transplant: Start seed 6–8 weeks before the last frost and pot seedlings up into cell packs or larger containers once the first true leaves form. Harden off and plant out after the last frost.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Fairly lean soil. Rich soil makes soft, lush growth that rain easily flattens.

PLANT SPACING:

Space plants 8" apart.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Grown as an annual.

HARVEST:

For fresh use, cut when 70–90% of the flowers on the spray have opened.

USE:

Cut flower.

PLANT HEIGHT:

Grows about 18–24" tall.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Gypsophila elegans