Seed Treatment:
• Cold stratification is recommended: Place seeds in moist sand or paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag. Refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 2–4 weeks.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 12 hours before cold stratification.
When to Sow:
• Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost after stratification.
• Outdoors: Sow in fall for natural stratification or early spring after the risk of hard frost.
Sowing Instructions:
• Surface sow — do not cover seeds, as they need light to germinate.
• Press seeds gently into moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Ideal temperature for germination: 60–68°F (16–20°C).
• Germination can take 14–30 days.
Light Requirements:
• Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• More shade is tolerated in hotter climates.
Soil Requirements:
• Grows best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
• pH range: 6.0–7.5.
Watering:
• Keep soil evenly moist during germination and seedling growth.
• Once established, water moderately and avoid letting soil completely dry out.
Spacing:
• Thin or transplant seedlings to 10–15 inches (25–38 cm) apart.
Growing Tips:
• Produces elegant, nodding bell-shaped flowers on slender stems in early to mid-summer.
• Attractive in rock gardens, cottage gardens, and borders.
• Hardy perennial in USDA Zones 5–8.
• Deadhead to prolong flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired.