Achillea alpina ssp. camtschatica, 'Love Parade'

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Cover with a sprinkling of soil. Propagate or place somewhere warm, 15-20°C. Water from the base of tray only. Keep moist but not wet. Germination takes 5-10 days. When seedlings have 2 true leaves prick out to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Overwinter autumn sowings in a frost free area.

Growing

Prefers light, moist soil in full sun. Does not like a wet soil in winter so add grit prior to planting if needed. May need staking. Requires little attention.

Cultivation

Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering window. Cut down to the ground in late winter. Divide large clumps in early spring. To harvest flowers for the vase or drying cut when fully open. Hang upside down in a warm place to dry.