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About this seed
Gold Dollar is a variety of Nicotiana tabacum, the cultivated Nicotiana species, and it is listed in our catalog as a leaf type. According to our catalog data, the plants grow upright to roughly 4.5 feet (about 1.4 m) and carry large, broad leaves that stay light green during growth. This page covers the plant itself: what it looks like, how the seeds are sown and how seedlings are raised.
About the Gold Dollar plant
Nicotiana tabacum belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae, and is a tall annual in cultivation. Gold Dollar follows that pattern. The catalog details for this variety are:
- Habit: robust and upright, reaching approximately 4.5 feet.
- Leaves: large and broad, light green while the plant is growing.
- Species: Nicotiana tabacum.
The photographs in the gallery are archive images from our store. Treat them as a general guide to the plant, and expect individual plants to vary a little in size and leaf shape, as they do in any seed-raised crop.
Growing from seed
The steps below follow the guidance in our catalog data. Where it is silent, for example on exact germination temperature or days to emergence, we do not state a figure, and the practical approach is to watch your own seedlings and adjust.
- Start indoors. Sow 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area, so the seedlings are ready to move outside once frost has passed.
- Sow on the surface. Press the seeds lightly onto the soil surface and do not cover them. The seeds need light to germinate, so burying them works against the plant.
- Keep the surface moist. A fine mist or watering from below keeps the seeds from washing around. Aim for soil that is moist but never waterlogged.
- Give light. Once seedlings appear, keep them in bright light. The grown plant is listed as needing full sun.
- Prepare the bed. The guidance recommends well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Working organic matter into the bed before planting out is advised.
- Water steadily. Consistent watering that keeps the soil moist without standing water suits this variety.
Space and planning
A plant that reaches about 4.5 feet with large, broad leaves needs room around it. Leave generous gaps between plants so that air can move through the leaves and each plant receives full sun. Choose a spot that is sheltered from strong wind, since broad leaves on a tall stem catch the breeze. Label each tray and each bed with the variety name when you grow more than one Nicotiana, because the seedlings of different varieties look very similar at the start.
FAQ
What conditions do Gold Dollar seeds need to germinate?
Light. The seeds should rest on the surface of a well-drained seed-starting mix and stay uncovered. Keep the surface moist, but not waterlogged.
When should I sow Gold Dollar seeds?
Our catalog data advises starting seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Count back from your local last frost date to find your sowing week, then move the seedlings outdoors after the frost risk has passed.
How tall does Gold Dollar grow?
Our catalog data gives a height of approximately 4.5 feet (about 1.4 m), with an upright habit and large, broad leaves. Final height depends on soil, water and light in your garden.