Description

T&M have selected a collection of five contrasting grasses to provide different heights, textures, habits, colours and effects. All are very effective grown in clumps or drifts in the border or they may be cut and used in arrangements.

Setaria italica 'Lowlander'

Produces pendulous bronze fox tails. Hardy Annual. Grows to 90cm (3ft).

Briza maxima, or 'Quaking Grass'

Exhibits graceful, pendant flowers which look superb sprayed. Hardy Annual. Grows to 45cm (18in).

Lagurus ovatus

With clumps of wire-like stems of hare's tails. Hardy Annual. Grows to 45cm (18in).

Melica altissima atropurpurea

Looks fantastic at the back of the border with metallic purple-red spikes. Hardy Perennial. Grows to 1.2m (4ft).

Stipa tenuissimaa

Quickly produces wispy pony tails which feel soft to the touch. Hardy Perennial. Grows to 90cm (3ft).

PACKET CONTENTS - One packet each of: Setaria italica 'Lowlander'; Briza maxima; Lagurus ovatus; Melica altissima atropurpurea; Stipa tenuissima -

Sowing Instructions

Annuals - Sow outdoors in spring where they are to flower. Choose a site in full sun, in a well-drained soil. Sow thinly, 6mm (¼in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart. Thin seedlings when large enough to handle to 23cm (9in) apart.

Perennials - Sow indoors from February to May at 20-30C (68-86F) on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost. Apply a layer of compost, 6mm (¼in) deep. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 10-21 days.

Growing Instructions

Perennials - Transplant seedlings, when large enough to handle into 7.3cm (3in) pots, and grow on in cooler conditions for at least 14 days before planting out. Plant outside after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart, or grow in 7.5cm (3in) pots indoors.

Aftercare Instructions

For drying, gather heads when they have changed colour but before they start to break up. Hang bunches upside down in a cool, dry, airy place until fully dry.