I'm usually too lazy to start seeds, but last summer someone gave me some cleome seeds and told me to start them in January. I waited until the beginning of February, but the plants have taken off and are now 8-10" tall. I've already transplanted most of them to larger pots. In our area I usually don't put plants out until May. I can't imagine how large they'll be before I get to put them out in the garden. I don't use lights, just my south-facing picture window. How large can I keep them in pots? Will they bloom prematurely or die off?

Clemome should be planted no earlier then 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Pinch the plants early to encourage branching. Just re-pot to larger pots if neccesary, they will be fine.

Thanks, I'll start pinching post-haste!