Cornflower - Centuraea Dealbata
This is an attractive, easy to grow, clump forming lavender pink cornflower, with the unusual characteristic of being perennial and flowering In the first year. It adds height and interest to borders, as well as making a superb border cut flower. Height: 80-90cm.
Sow January to March or September to November. Sow seed on the surface of a good, free-draining, damp, seed or multipurpose compost, then lightly cover the seed with fine grade vermiculite. Place container in a heated propagator, or seal container inside a polythene bag and place at 15-20C. Germination can take 1-3 months. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or 7.5cm pots. Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 45-60cm apart.