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These are popular plants for borders, window-boxes, tubs and hanging baskets, and are usually grown as half-hardy annuals.
There are numerous garden varieties as can be seen here, most of which grow to a height of 200-400mm (8"-15") and flower from late June until first frosts.
They prefer a sheltered sunny site and light well-drained soil.
Over rich soil, excessive shade and moisture will encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
The delicate flowers can be damaged by wind and heavy rain, so purchase weather resistant varieties.
Dead-head the plants regularly.
Week 10; Sow seed on the surface of the seed compost and germinate at a temperature of 20°C (68°F).
Germination should take about a week.
Week 11; Take cuttings from perennial varieties
Week 13; Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle, into trays of potting compost.
Grow on for a couple of weeks at a minimum temperature of 12°(54°F), then gradually harden them off in a frost free coldframe until planting out time.
Pot up rooted cuttings into individual 70mm (3") pots
Week 23; Plant out 250mm (10") apart when all fear of frost has passed.
Cultural tips;
Regular pinching out of your plants will encourage flowering.
Circa week 15 > Pinch out the growing tips when the plants are 50-75mm (2"-3") tall to encourage a branching habit.
Circa week 18; Pinch for a second time when the new shoots are 25mm (1") long.
Note; This will delay flowering but will ensure an abundance of flowers.
As mentioned above 'deadhead' regularly to prolong the flowering period.
When deadheading ensure that you remove the seed pod, similarly remove the seed pod if the petals have dropped off.
Water regularly to avoid them drying out or becoming stressed, and feed every couple of weeks with a high potash fertiliser.
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