Datura stramonium

Germination

Sow directly in May. Prior to sowing soak seed in warm water for 24 hours. Sow thinly in drills 90cm apart. Just cover the seed with a little soil. Ideal temp. 12-18°C. Germination takes 21-42 days approx. Once germinated thin as required. Can be sown indoors in Feb-Mar. or under glass in April. Indoors or under glass sow 3-4 seeds in an individual pot and thin to the best plant. Grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers a fertile, light, sandy soil or well-drained, ideally calcareous loam soil in full sun. Shelter from strong winds. The plant has a strong odour so site carefully.

Cultivation

Will self-seed freely, dig, pull or hoe out plants before seed is set and compost if you do not want volunteer seedlings next season. Plants that have set seed need to go in the green waste collection or burned. Always wear gloves and thoroughly wash hands after handling this plant.