Tweedia caerulea, 'Heavenborn'

Germination

Sow indoors 7-8 weeks before last expected frost. Sow directly after danger of frost has passed. Indoors, surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Place somewhere warm, ideal temp. 22°C.Germination takes 1-2 weeks but can be erratic taking up to 3 months. Acclimatise and plant out seedlings after danger of frost has passed. Directly, sow into prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Thin seedlings as required.

Growing

This is a perennial in frost free areas or when grown under glass. Requires a min. temp. 5°C. In the UK it is usually grown as an annual. Prefers a fertile, well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Indoors use a loam-based compost, place in bright light. Pinch out when young to encourage a bushier habit. Water freely when in growth, reduce watering, keeping just moist, in winter. Will be cut down by frost.

Cultivation

Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings. Cuttings to be taken in summer and offered bottom heat. If grown under glass prune in early spring as required.