Silene dioica

Germination

Sow into a cold frame in autumn or early spring. Sow directly after danger of frost has passed. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Ideal temp. 20°C. Cold frame sowings should germinate in spring as the weather warms. Direct sowings take 2-3 weeks to germinate. Cold frame seedlings should be transplanted to 8cm pots and grown on under glass, acclimatised and planted out after danger of frost has passed. Direct sowings may be thinned if required.

Growing

Very easy to grow. Prefers any, even poor, soil in full sun. Will tolerate drought once established. Requires little attention. Will not flower in deeper shade.

Cultivation

Will self-seed freely. Deadhead if you do not want volunteer seedlings next year.