
Step by step
This is the simplest way to grow annual flowers from seed (those that will germinate, flower and die in one season), either into a prepared area of ground or into a large pot. It takes an initial bit of effort but then you can pretty much sit back as it transforms into an absolute riot of colour! It is incredibly cheap, too.
Here’s how to do it:
- If sowing direct into the soil, select a sunny area, preferably a metre square or more in size. Dig and weed it thoroughly. If sowing into a large container, choose one that is wider than tall, and make sure it has drainage holes. Fill it with peat-free compost.
- Make sure the surface is like fine crumbs – a rake will help but in a pot fingers are fine.
- Then just scatter the seeds evenly and thinly, at about three grams per metre square.
- Lightly cover over, either by raking or with a little more compost.
- Water well, and then keep the ground or pot moist but not soggy.
- The first seeds should germinate within a week or so. Nature will do the rest.