Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors: Sow seeds indoors in moist seed compost at a temperature of 10-15°C. Keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Transplanting Seedlings: Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots filled with potting compost. Space them about 5 cm apart.
Hardening Off: Before planting outdoors, gradually acclimatize the young plants to outdoor conditions over a week to ten days. This process is known as hardening off.
Outdoor Planting: Plant out seedlings from early summer onwards. Ensure a spacing of at least 30 cm between plants to allow for full growth. Choose a location that receives full sun.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.
Watering: Water regularly after planting until established. Once mature, it is drought-tolerant, requiring watering only during prolonged dry periods.
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and maintain plant appearance.
Pest & Disease: Generally pest-free. Monitor for powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions, and ensure good air circulation.