Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Seeds:
- Prepare Soil: Ensure the seedbed is weed-free, well-drained, and has a fine tilth. Gently firm and level the surface.
- Mix Seeds: For even distribution, mix the very fine seeds with dry sand.
- Sow: Scatter the seed/sand mixture thinly over the prepared area (approximately one packet per square metre). Do not cover the seeds; leave them exposed on the soil surface.
- Water: Water gently using a fine spray. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out.
- Protect Seeds: Consider covering the sown area lightly to deter birds, which may eat the seeds.
- Thinning: Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to approximately 30cm apart. For a quicker, denser effect, thin to 10-15cm.
Planting Established Plants (9cm Pot):
- Choose Location: Select a sunny spot with well-drained, preferably sandy, soil.
- Prepare Hole: Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant's root ball.
- Plant: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and firm gently.
- Water: Water thoroughly after planting.
Ongoing Care:
- Watering: Water deeply when the soil becomes dry, rather than frequent light sprinklings.
- Pruning: Cut back plants after flowering or in early spring to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, light, sandy soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for best flowering and growth.
- Hardiness: Fully hardy perennial. May benefit from a light mulch in colder regions.
Compatibility:
Compatible with most common garden plants that share similar sunlight and soil drainage requirements. Avoid planting in areas that remain wet.