Sowing Indoors

For earlier flowering, sturdier plants, sow in trays of moist seed compost from February to April in gentle warmth 10-15C (50-60F).

Transplant 5cm (2in) apart into other trays of compost when seedlings are large enough to handle.

Gradually accustom to cooler conditions before planting out from April onwards, allowing about 20cm (8in) between plants.

Sowing Outdoors

Rake soil to provide a firm, even surface. Sow seeds thinly in pre-watered soil, lightly covering them with a little more soil. Keep moist until seedlings appear and as required in dry spells.

Growing on / thinning

When large enough to handle, thin seedlings to allow their development and to prevent overcrowding.

Special note

Late summer and autumn sown seedlings may benefit from cloche or fleece protection when hard frosts threaten. Such plants generally bloom earlier the following summer than spring sown plants.