Seed Treatment (Pre-Planting Preparation)
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Soak raw seeds in warm water for a few hours to soften the seed coat.
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Do not pre-soak pelleted seeds—the coating is designed to dissolve in moisture naturally.
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Store in a cool, dry place until planting to prevent premature softening of the coating.
Planting Instructions
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Best Planting Time:
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Indoors: Start 10–12 weeks before the last frost date.
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Outdoors: Direct sow only in warm climates after the danger of frost has passed.
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Soil Requirements:
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Well-draining, loose, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5.
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Use a light potting mix or a fine-textured seed-starting medium.
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Sunlight:
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Requires full sun (6–8 hours of sunlight daily) for best flowering.
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Planting Depth:
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Surface sow – press seeds lightly into the soil but do not cover (they need light to germinate).
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For Pelleted Seeds - Mist gently with water after sowing to help dissolve the coating. Avoid overhead watering that could displace the seeds.
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Spacing:
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6–12 inches (15–30 cm) apart, depending on the variety.
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Watering:
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Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
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Mist seeds with a spray bottle to avoid washing them away.
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Temperature for Germination:
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70–75°F (21–24°C).
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Germination Time:
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7–14 days under ideal conditions.
Care After Germination
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Thinning: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin or transplant them 6–12 inches apart.
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Fertilization: Feed with a diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks once true leaves appear.
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Pinching: Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
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Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming.