Lychnis chalcedonica, 'Carnea'

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Press seeds lightly into soil but do not cover. Light is needed for germination. Ideal temp. 20°C. Germination takes 10-20 days. Transplant seedlings when they have 2 sets of true leaves to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed. Can be sown directly in spring or summer, this to 50cm spacing. Autumn sowings should overwinter indoors planting out the following spring.

Growing

Very easy to grow. Prefers moist fertile soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet. May require staking.

Cultivation

Cut back after flowering to encourage further blooms and to prevent self-seeding. Established clumps can be divided in spring.