Sowing
A tender annual: sow indoors in spring for planting out after the last frost, or sow where it will grow once the soil has warmed.
The seeds are long and thin; cover them lightly and keep the mix damp and warm. They come up quickly in warmth.
Tips
- Harden off indoor-sown plants before planting out.
- Deadhead to keep flowers coming.
Saving the seed
Let a few flower heads dry on the plant, then pull them apart to release the seed. Seed from hybrids may not come true.
Always check the packet for your variety, and see the step-by-step guide for the basics.