Large flowers on strong stems in a splendid range of vibrant colours. Early to flower, these are perfect for all containers and borders. Can also be grown as a house plant. Keep in a fairly cool, airy position. Treat as HHA. Height: 30cm/12in Plant Class: Half Hardy Perennial (Treat as HHA). Habit: Upright. Sow indoors, January-March. A warm kitchen windowsill is all you need for starting these seeds. Sow, 0.5cm (¼") deep, in trays of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F) is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 7-21 days. Transplant individually, when large enough to handle, to 7.5cm (3") pots. Always hold by a leaf, never by the stem. Grow on in cooler, but not cold conditions. Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out, May-June, 25cm (10") apart, into well-drained soil, when frosts are over. Flowers: June-October.
