Sweet Pea - America
This is an attractive red and white striped heirloom dating back to 1896. This small flowered variety has the strongest of fragrances, ideal for growing up an obelisk or trellis work, as well as making a spectacular cut flower.
Soak seeds overnight in warm water before sowing, 1cm deep, 3 seeds per 7.5cm pot, in free draining, damp seed compost. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and place at 20-25C until after germination which takes 7-21 days. Do not exclude light. Spring sowings can be sown outdoors, 2.5cm deep, in drills 7.5cm apart. Overwinter October sown plants in cooler conditions such as a cold frame before planting out in spring when the ground has warmed, 23-3cm apart. Pinch out growing point once the second pair of leaves has opened. Water freely in dry weather and apply well-rotted manure occasionally. Remove faded flowers regularly.