Another wildflower that is now often used in the garden where it is treated as a half hardy annual.
The variety of flower colours, including white, pink, red, blue, lavender and even yellow, makes it a useful plant for informal plantings in open sunny spots.
The dwarf types are just 150-200mm (6"-8") tall, whereas the taller varieties can reach 400-500mm (14"-18").
|
 |
Some of the lower growing varieties are suited to baskets and containers.
The flowers appear in July and go on into October if regularly deadheaded.
When watering; avoid wetting the leaves as this can promote fungal disease.
Feed monthly with a water-soluble fertilizer if rewquired..
Cultivation;
Week 13; Sow seed in pots/trays of seed compost, and germinate at a temperature of 20°C (68°F).
Germination should take about a week.
Week 16; Prick out the seedlings into cell trays of potting compost then gradually harden off in a cold frame till planting out time.
Week 21; Plant out 150-200mm (6"- 8") apart in a well drained fertile sunny site.
Note; Pinch out the growing tip at planting time to encourage bushier growth.
