Strawflowers in Fortuneswell

Sow seeds in modules or trays around 3rd February - 27th February at a depth of 0.5 cm. Keep them at 18–21 °C and just moist until they germinate, then give them plenty of light so the seedlings do not stretch.

When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots around 8th March - 22nd March. Handle them by the leaves, not the stems, and keep them growing on in bright, frost-free conditions.

Acclimatise the young plants gradually around 6th March - 20th March. Put them outside for a few hours at first, then extend the time over about a week so they get used to sun and wind.

Plant out around 3rd April - 17th April once frosts have passed and the soil has warmed. Space plants 30 cm apart in full sun, and water in thoroughly straight away.

Check plants from 10th May as they settle in, and keep the soil evenly moist in dry spells. A light liquid feed every 14 days helps maintain growth without making the plants soft and floppy.

From 10th May onwards, deadhead fading flowers regularly by cutting stems back to a leaf joint. This stops the plant setting seed and keeps it flowering well until the autumn frosts.