Ulex europaeus

Germination

Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Prior to sowing soak seed in warm water for 24 hours. Drain. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Ideal temp. 17-22°C. Germination takes 2-3 weeks approx. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers a poor, sandy soil in full sun. if the soil is too rich it the plant will become leggy. Requires little attention.

Cultivation

These shrubs flower on new wood therefore pruning every 2-3 years will improve flowering and prevent them from becoming woody. Prune immediately after flowering. Remove shoots that have flowered to within 2cm of previous years growth. Pruning group 10. Propagate via seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.