Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Indoors:
- Fill a small pot (7-8cm) with seed compost.
- Shake and level the compost. Firm gently with the base of another pot.
- Water well using a fine rose.
- Sow seeds individually, pushing them about 1cm deep into the compost.
- Place in a propagator at 15-20°C or cover the pot with cling film and keep in a warm room.
- Once shoots appear, remove the cling film. Keep seedlings in a light position, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Grow on in a minimum temperature of 10°C.
Planting Out:
- Gradually accustom indoor-sown plants to outside conditions over 2-3 weeks.
- Plant out after the risk of frost has passed.
- Water well until the plants are established.
Sowing Outdoors:
- Choose a sunny location.
- Sow seeds in pre-watered soil at a depth of 1.5cm.
- Keep the soil moist until seedlings are established.
- Thin out seedlings as required to prevent overcrowding.
Care: Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when grown in containers. Ensure good air circulation. No specific feeding is usually required if planted in fertile soil or good quality compost. For edible seeds, allow the flower heads to mature fully on the plant; they should droop and the back of the flower head will turn yellow/brown.
Compatibility: Suitable for most garden soils and compost mixes. Prefers a sunny, sheltered spot.