When to plant Echinacea in London

Sow seeds in trays or modules around 11th February - 25th February, using a free-draining seed compost. Keep them at 18–21 °C and only cover the seed lightly, as it needs some light to germinate.

Move seedlings on when the first true leaves appear, from 4th March. Handle them by the leaves, not the stems, and pot them on into individual small pots.

Acclimatise young plants gradually from 21st March - 4th April before planting out. Put them outside in a sheltered spot for a few hours at first, then extend the time each day over about 10 days.

Plant in a sunny, free-draining spot from 4th April at 45 cm apart. Water in thoroughly straight after planting and keep an eye on slugs around fresh growth.

Keep plants evenly moist through 4th April - 6th June while roots settle. Water at the base in dry spells, but do not leave the soil soggy.

Remove faded flowers from 3rd June - 10th November to keep the display going for longer. Cut stems back to a strong pair of leaves and leave a few heads later on if you want seed for birds.

Cut back old stems during 27th October - 10th December. If you left seed heads for birds, leave those stems standing until late winter, then remove them. Trim the rest down to a little crown of growth at soil level, taking care not to damage new shoots.