Seed Treatment:
- Cold stratify: Mix seeds with moist sand or vermiculite, place in a sealed plastic bag, and refrigerate for 2–4 weeks at 35–40°F (1–4°C).
- Alternatively, sow outdoors in late fall for natural stratification.
When to Sow:
Indoors:
• Start seeds 8–10 weeks before the last frost
Outdoors:
• Direct sow in spring after frost, or in late fall
Light Requirements:
• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• In hotter climates, provide afternoon shade
Soil Requirements:
• Grows best in moist, well-drained soil
• Tolerates a range of soil types but prefers light, loamy soil
• pH range: 6.0–7.5
Sowing Instructions:
• Surface sow — seeds need light to germinate
• Press gently into moist soil but do not cover
• Ideal temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
• Germination time: 14–28 days
Watering:
• Keep soil evenly moist during germination
• Once established, water moderately; do not overwater
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–15 inches (30–38 cm) apart
Growing Tips:
• Produces elegant flowers on tall stems
• Blooms in late spring to mid-summer
• Great for cottage gardens, borders, and cut flower gardens
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
• May self-seed in favorable conditions
• Hardy in USDA Zones 3–8