Bargain Basement, Lottery Mixtures, Perennials

Germination

Sow indoors in spring, sow in a cold frame in autumn. This mix may contain hard coated seed, if so separate and soak seed prior to sowing. Indoors, surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Place in a propagator or somewhere warm, ideal temp. 15-20°C. Germination takes 1-12 weeks and will be erratic due to the variety of species enclosed. If germination does not occur cold stratify at 4°C, a fridge is ideal, for a few weeks. Remove to warmth for germination. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle. Grow on under glass for their 1st winter. Acclimatise and plant out the following spring after danger of frost has passed. Can be sown into a cold frame in autumn where natural cold should offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms.

Growing

Prefers any moist but well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Taller plants may require staking.

Cultivation

Deadhead regularly to prolong the flowering window. Remove spent stems at the end of the growing season, many plants can be cut down to ground level. Propagate by seed or division of established plant every few years. Dividing plants will help to maintain plant vigour.