Flowers: Summer

Height: 18 inches

Position: Full Sun

Germination: Experience Useful

Aftercare: Easy

Description: Outstanding bushy, compact plants, smothered in long lasting double to semi -double vibrant coloured flowers during the summer. Spectacular planted en masse in bedding displays.

Sowing Instructions: Sow March to May in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 10-24 days. Can also be sown once the soil has warmed, 3mm (1/8 inch) deep in drills 30cm (12 inches) apart in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. When large enough to handle, thin out seedlings to 30cm (12 inches) apart.

Growing Instructions: When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12 inches) apart.

Aftercare Instructions: For best results, provide a moist, well-drained soil in full sun.