Seed Treatment:
• Soaking: Soak seeds in warm water for 4–6 hours before planting
• For earlier blooms, cold stratify seeds for 1–2 weeks in moist paper towel in the fridge (at 35–40°F / 1–4°C)
When to Sow:
• Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before last frost
• Outdoors: Direct sow in late spring or early fall (for blooms the following year)
Light Requirements:
• Prefers full sun, but tolerates partial shade
Soil Requirements:
• Well-draining, fertile soil
• pH between 6.0–7.5
• Add compost or organic matter to enrich poor soils
Sowing Instructions:
• Sow seeds ⅛ inch (3 mm) deep
• Lightly cover with soil
• Keep soil moist but not soggy
• Germination temperature: 60–70°F (15–21°C)
• Germinates in 10–14 days
Watering:
• Water gently and regularly during germination
• Once established, moderately drought-tolerant; water when topsoil feels dry
Spacing:
• Space seedlings or thin to 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) apart
Growing Tips:
• Produces clusters of brightly colored blooms
• Biennial or short-lived perennial — typically blooms in the second year
• Deadhead to encourage more blooms and reduce self-seeding
• Attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
• Excellent for cut flower gardens, borders, and cottage gardens
• Hardy in USDA Zones 3–9