Unforgettable talk sparks renewed interest in forget-me-not flower

Sow the seeds in mid-summer in a protected area. They will establish that fall and bloom in the spring. With a favorable environment, the plants will naturalize if left undisturbed. They will perenniate, or self-seed.

You can collect seed out of the small, tulip-shape pods along the stem by putting a sheet of paper under the stems and shaking them.

The plants have no serious insect or disease problems, although you might see mildew and rust on occasion. They are resistant to deer browsing.

The plants are excellent bedding for borders and mixed beds. They are excellent for rock gardens and also naturalize in wildflower gardens and woodland areas.

The LDS Church garden staff has not forgotten these flowers. If you visit, you can find forget-me-nots to enjoy in beds on Temple Square. More concentrated plantings are in the Utah Garden between the Church Administration Building and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building — where you and President Uchtdorf can enjoy his wonderful, metaphor-inspiring flowers.

Larry A. Sagers is a horticulture specialist for the Utah State University Extension Service at Thanksgiving Point.