Laurentia Blue Star

Laurentia Blue Star
A spectacular container, basket or edging plant for the summer garden. Attractive domes of fine foliage from which shoot masses of sky-blue flowers filling the air with their gentle perfume on a warm summer's evening. Height: 6 inches; Type/hardiness: Half-hardy Annual; Prefers sun or part shade; Flowers: Summer
Sowing:
For earliest flowers from early June onwards sow September/October and over winter under glass, alternatively for flowers mid-late July onwards sow January-February. Sow on the surface of a 3 inch pot of good free draining seed compost and cover with a very light sprinkling of Vermiculite. Seal in a polythene bag and don't exclude light. Germination takes 10-28 days at 65-70F.
Growing:
Transplant when large enough to handle into 3 inch pots and grow cool and well lit. Keep September/October sowings at 50-55F through the winter in good light and well ventilated. Water carefully so they don't sit in cold wet soil. Gradually acclimatize to outdoor conditions and plant out late spring after all risk of frost has passed 12 inches apart in a sheltered spot in light, well drained soil and full sun. For window boxes, baskets, containers, etc, allow 6 inches between plants.
Aftercare:
Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong the flowering season. Plants will over winter in a frost free greenhouse, conservatory etc if lifted in the fall.