Owairaka Seeds Catalogue July 2019

Plant Name Plant Description Sowing advice Approx. Price per Number of Pkt (inc seeds per pkt GST) Achillea filipendilina This achillea has long ferny leaves, which are grey - green and Surface sow indoors in pots or trays onto moist seed raising Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Parkers variety’ aromatic. The flower heads are large and flat and are composed of mix. Cover with a very light sprinkling of soil. Propagate at tens of small bright yellow flowers, which make extremely good cut about 15-20°C. Water from the base of tray only. Keep moist flowers. The plants form a vigorous clump and are frost hardy. but not wet. Germination usually takes approx 1 week. When Achillea filipendulina 'Parkers Variety' won the prestigious Royal seedlings have 2 true leaves transplant them to 8cm pots. Horticultural Award of Garden Merit. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed. Achillea millefolium This plant produces showy clusters of cherry red flowers which are Sow Spring to Midsummer or in the Autumn. 30 $4.10 ‘Cassis’- (Yarrow) held above the clumps of ferny green leaves. Sow the seeds on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays. Cover seed with only a light The flowers are good for cutting and can be dried. If you deadhead sprinkling of compost as light aids germination. Water from the plants , you may encourage blooming. It likes well drained soil, a the base of the tray, Keep in a warm place, ideally at 15 to little on the poor side, which encourages the formation of thicker ses 20°C. Keep moist but do not waterlog. Germination should so that the flowers dont flop. It is easily divided in Spring or Autumn, take between 5 to 10 days. and as it is inclined to spread , it is a good idea to site it carefully or Transplant each seedling once it has its first set of true leaves to divide it reasonably regularly. It is heat tolerant and is a plant and put into 7.5cm pots containing free-draining which is easy care and brings life to the summer border. It is compost until large enough to plant outside. Plant out in reportedly deer and rabbit resistant. well-drained soil in full sun and light lean soil which aids formation of strong stems that don’t flop. Achillea millefolium This mix will give flowers in colours of pink, red, white , apricot, Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost in trays or Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Colorado’ - (Yarrow) beige, bronze and yellow. It flowers from Spring right through until pots. Do not cover seeds as light aids germination. Propagate the first frosts. It likes well drained soil which is a little lean, but will or place somewhere warm 18-25°C. Water from the base of adapt to most soils and can tolerate full sun and humid warm tray only. Keep moist but not wet. Germination takes 5-10 summers. It is suited to pots or containers and the flowers dry days. When seedlings have 2 true leaves prick out to 8cm well. It tends to spread a little , so plan to divide the clumps in Spring pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of or autumn to ensure it stays compact.The foliage is narrow mid frost has passed with 50cm spacing.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

green grey in colour and fern like, and forms a compact basal mound. It should be trimmed back to the basal leaves encourage further flowering. Achillea ptarmica This form of achillea has tiny pure white double flowers in billowing As above Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Noblessa’ clouds on good length stems which are good for the garden or for cutting. It is a hardy plant whose tidy mounds of growth will withstand some drought and it flowers from early summer right through to late autumn. Acnistus australis This plant from Argentina grows to a multi-stemmed shrub or can be Sow in spring after last frost. Sow 1mm deep into pots or Approx. 20 $5.10 shaped to a small tree and will reach about 1.8 metres. It has very trays of moist well-drained seed compost, or surface sow and pretty long blooming blue bells about 5 – 8 cm long in clusters, which cover with a fine layer of soil. Ideal temp. 13-18°C. look much like small brugmansia flowers. It can be pruned hard in Germination takes 21-42 days but can be irregular. Once early spring if it becomes leggy. It can be used to great advantage in large enough to handle transplant seedlings to 8cm pots and a container. Small birds love the flowers, but beware the fruit is grow on. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has poisonous and on no account should you eat it. passed with 90cm spacing. Agastache This plant has bright orange flowers and flowers are freely borne on Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Approx 20 $4.10.50 aurantiaca ‘Navajo its 60 cm stems throughout the summer. It slowly forms an aromatic Press seeds lightly into the soil but do not cover. Light is Sunset’ - (Giant anise scented clump of foliage. This variety flowers in 12 weeks from needed for germination. Propagate 18-20°C. Germination Orange Hyssop) planting. It likes medium to dry well drained soils in full sun. Its takes 30-90 days. Water only from the base. Once flowers cut well, and it is reportedly deer resistant. Bees and germination begins admit air to prevent damping off. Once beneficial insects are attracted to it. seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 30cm spacing. Agastache Mexicana This plant is tough , drought hardy with small pointed leaves that Seeds can be sown indoors in spring in a glasshouse or later Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Sangria’ when bruised have a zesty lemon scent. The leaves can be used for outdoors when the temperatures reach approx 18 deg.C. Sow tea. It produces wave upon wave of bright rich red -purple-pink onto moist well-drained compost or potting mix. Press seeds tubular flowers in whorls on long stems , and goes on producing lightly into the soil but do not cover. Light is needed for through into the autumn. It likes full sun and soil which is well germination. Propagate 18-20°C. Germination should happen drained. Butterflies and bees love the nectar produced by the in 14.10-28 days, but can be irregular and take up to 90 days. Water only from the base. flowers, and the flower lasts well when cut. You can use the flowers to decorate your food dishes since they are edible, as are the leaves. Agastache This plant has pretty rose coloured flowers and is a drought hardy As above Approx 30 $4.10 pallidiflora ssp tough easy care plant which flowers right through the summer and neomexicana ‘Rose autumn. It likes well drained soil and full sun. It makes a great Mint’ container plant

Agave filifera Agave filifera is a small to medium sized agave which grows in Sow in late spring and summer - ideal temp 23 deg C. Approx. 20 $6.10 an attractive rosette formation of leathery leaves each ending in a Sow in pots or trays. Soak seeds overnight (up to 36 hours) in stout stiff spine. The leaves are dark green and have very handsome water to start the germination process. Cover the seeds to their

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

white curling threads along the edges. It will produce a flower stem own depth with seed raising mix. Germinate in full sun at 23 2,5 m at the end of which are purple and green blooms, but the plant deg C. and keep moist until seeds are established, and the roots is mainly grown for the attractive rosette of leaves. The main rosette are fully developed. Once established allow to dry between dies after it has produced flowers but usually new plantlets sprout watering but do not allow to become too dry .Keep warm over from the base to start a new life cycle. It also produces suckers the first winter, and plant out in late spring. freely. Agave parrasana This plant grows slowly, forming a rosette of rigid, fleshy, spiny As above Approx. 20 $6.10 overlapping blue-green leaves. It eventually grows to approx 60 cm wide and high.It bears funnel shaped flowers which are red in bud , but open as yellow. The flower panicles are densely packed , very colourful and can reach 6 metres in height . The flowering rosette dies after flowering, but offsets are produced at the base of the main plant and these will grow to replace the rosette which has flowered. It has won the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit. It can be used as a point of interest to beds and borders, and in rock and gravel gardens, and is excellent as a specimen plant in a container. Ageratum This plant has pretty fluffy flowers in shades of blue, pink and white Sow indoors in trays or pots in spring. Surface sow onto moist Approx. 20 4.10 houstonianum . The flowers grow on a well branched bushy plant. The flowers are well-drained seed raising mix which has been firmed. Ideal ‘Timeless Mix’ good as a cut flower because they have tall study stems and provide temp. 15-18°C. Do not exclude light as this aids germination. a light airy texture to bouquets. But they are also a valuable plant in Germination takes 10-15 days. When seedlings are large the garden, where the mid green, heart shaped foliage with enough to handle transplant to 8cm pots and grow on in scalloped edges creates a useful foil for the flowers. The flowers are cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of produced throughout the summer, and bees and butterflies are frost has passed with 50cm spacing. attracted to their light scent. Remove the old flowers to encourage further flowering, and tidy up the plant. The plant likes a position in full sun , with moist well drained soil, though will tolerate partial shade, and doesn't have many pest and disease problems. It grows easily from seed, and can be used in containers as well as in the garden. Ageratum As above but pure white As above Approx 30 4.10 houstonianum ‘White Bouquet’ Agrostemma This beautiful corn cockle has silken flowers of pure white which Sow directly where they are to flower. Sow 12mm deep into Approx. 30 $4.10 githago, 'Ocean glisten in the sunlight, and a group of these is an arresting sight. It is prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow Pearls’ a lovely cottage garden flower, whose sibling, the mauve corncockle, sparingly in drills spaced 30cm apart. Keep the ground well once grew in the english cornfields, amongst the corn to be watered. Germination takes 7-14 days. Seedlings should harvested, but has now disappeared from the wildlings and is now appear in 6-8 weeks for spring sowings. Thin seedlings to only found in cultivated seed lists and gardens. It will gently set seed 30cm spacing. THIS PLANT MAY CAUSE MISCARRIAGE IN for you, but is never a nuisance. If you love the simple delicacy of PREGNANT SHEEP AND IS TOXIC TO CHICKENS.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

wild flowers, this flower is a must have for you. Alcea ficifolia, Happy lights is a beautiful strain. It is a blend of white, pink, purple, Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil, in late winter and 30 $4.10 'Happy Lights' - (Fig red, and yellow blooms. It makes a bushy plant rather than having a spring or in autumn. If sown in autumn, and late winter the leaved hollyhock)- single spire like the traditional hollyhocks, and will also flower in the plant will flower in its first year. Cover with about 2mm layer first year from seed if sown early enough (May - September).This is a of soil. Keep moist and do not let the seeds dry out once much more robust form of the common hollyhock native to Siberia. If planted. They will usually germinate in 2 to 3 weeks at 20°C. If you have problems with hollyhock rust then try this variety which is planted indoors, prick out each seedling as it becomes large much more rust resistant. The plants grow to around 150 to enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm pots or trays. 210cm tall, and produce large, single saucer shaped flowers that are Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days 8 to 12cm wide from November to April. They make excellent cut before planting out after all risk of frost. flowers. It should be cut back after flowering, and prefers a moderately fertile well drained soil. This strain is easy to row from seed, and is extremely hardy. It likes rich soil and full sun. Alcea rosa plena This is a mix of saucer-shaped double blossoms of many colors. Sow in late winter, spring or autumn directly where they are to grow Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Chaters Magnificent Included are chestnut-brown, chamois, pink, purple, red, salmon or in pots or trays doubles’ pink,violet,yellow, white. A popular self-sowing, biennial that has Cover seed with about 2mm layer of soil. Keep moist and do not let been long associated with cottage gardens The origin of these the seeds dry out once planted. They will usually germinate in 2 to 3 weeks at 20°C. If planted in trays, prick out each seedling as it flowers is unsure , but they probably come from along the silk road becomes large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm pots or trays. from Turkey to Asia Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days before planting out after all risk of frost.

Alchemilla mollis This is an outstanding and easily grown plant for the shady border. It Sow in late winter and spring in trays or pots containing free Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Select’ is a very beautiful small foliage plant, whose leaves catch the early draining , moist but not wet, seed raising mix. Cover seed morning dew and rain and capture the drops in their cupped leaves lightly with mix. Seal in a plastic bag and keep at 18 to 22°C. keeping them hanging like sparkling diamond drops. This selection for 4 weeks. If any seeds have germinated remove and pot has strong stems and very uniform foliage and is bred to be a more them up. Then move the ungerminated seeds to 4 degrees C upright form of alchemilla. It has large clusters of many tiny for 6 weeks ( put in the fridge if your temperatures are not chartreuse green flowers which are held above the leaves, in sprays . cold enough). Then move to 5 to 12 degrees C. Transplant Both leaves and flowers can be used in flower arrangements. when large enough to handle into 7.5cm pots and grow on . Acclimatise young plants to outdoor conditions before planting out into ordinary garden soil in full sun 38cm apart. Allium aflatunense This is a large flowered ball type allium with large tennis ball shaped Fold an ordinary kitchen paper towel into 3 in alternating Approx. 20 $5.00 purple flower heads which appear in early spring, making it directions to give a towel of 6.3 * 11.2 roughly. Open the last extremely valuable for early garden colour. Its handsome green fold of the towel .Now moisten the whole towel with water, seedheads are themselves decorative and will last into winter, so it is damp but not sopping wet, and place the seeds into making them valuable as dried flowers. It needs good drainage and a one third, fold over and seal the paper & seeds in a plastic bag dry summer rest. and propagate at 18-22 deg C for 2-4 weeks. Inspect from time to time, and if any have sprouted lift them out carefully, pot up, and propagate them at 5-12 deg. C. After the 4 weeks

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

, put into the refrigerator door for 4 to 6 weeks at around - 4.10 to +4°C. Inspect & pot up any germinated seeds, and propagate them at 5-12 deg. C. After chilling bring ungerminated seeds , out of the fridge to 5-12 ° C for germination. If there is no sign of germination after about 12 weeks, the hot and cold procedures above should be repeated for any ungerminated seeds. Allium Carinatum This beautiful allium with lovely pure white flowers which resemble As above Approx 20 $5.00 ssp pulchellum f. silver fireworks, is easily grown, even though it looks so delicate. The album plant bears flowers for at least 2 months It has won the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Allium insubricum - This allium is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful As above Approx 20 $5.00 (Parasol Onion) alliums. It is a very rare species, which flowers in summer. It is native to the Lombardy area in northern Italy, and is named for the area around Milan. Allium Insubricum has extremely large bright pink flowers which hang down as the flower head is hooked at the top. There can be up to five of the flowers to a flower head, and they are much larger than those of other alliums. Allium Insubricum has flat leaves which taper towards the top of the leaf.

Allium jesdianum This allium is a tall stately allium up to 90 cm tall with large As above Approx 20 $5.00 "exploding fireworks" tennis ball shaped usually purple flower heads which appear in early spring, making it extremely valuable for early garden colour. Its handsome green seedheads are themselves decorative and will last into winter, making them valuable as dried flowers. It needs good drainage and a dry summer rest. Allium karataviense This allium has lovely pale pink star shaped flowers which are Allium karataviense seeds need to be kept moist and given Approx 20 $5.00 clustered in a ball shape . They are displayed above very attractive alternating periods of cold and warmth, to break dormancy, flat leaves which are a deep green with purplish edges. It is one of before they will germinate. the very few alliums which have such attractive leaves. It is a squat These Allium karataviense seeds are best sown in autumn in short perennial, which looks good at all times of the growing season. seed tray or pots with good moist seed raising mix, and left to Allium Karataviense comes from Central Asia in the Karatau overwinter outside, as they require the shifting temperatures mountains in Khazakhstan, and enjoys hot dry sites and full sun of the cooler seasons to germinate in spring. during the summer months. It is easily grown in rich sandy to gritty soil which is well drained.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Allium Allium narcissiflorum is considered by allium experts to be the most As for allium jesdianum Approx 20 $5.00 narcissiflorum beautiful of all of the alliums. It bears clusters of large rose to lilac hued open bells which have slightly waved edges. It is a very neat and compact plant.

Allium obliquum This is a ball type flowering allium with large yellow green flowers As for allium karataviense Approx 20 $5.00 which appear in spring Allium This is a large flowered ball type allium with large purple flower As for allium jesdianum Approx 20 $5.00 rosenbachianum heads which appear in early spring. They are very handsome when planted in a group. Once the flowers have finished the green seedheads will last into winter, making them valuable as dried flowers or as garden ornaments themselves particularly with frost on them. It needs good drainage and a dry summer rest. Amaranthus This plant has unusual coral-pink tassels,and is an attractive form for Sow indoors at 21 deg C, 6-8 weeks before the last frost ,or Approx 40 $4.10 caudatus ‘Coral flower arrangements with its weeping tassels. direct in early summer at 21 deg C or higher. Sow in seed Fountain’ trays or pots in moist seed raising mix. Cover seeds with soil very finely as light is required for germination. Seedlings should appear in 10- 14 days. The plants grow quickly so pot on to prevent premature flowering. The seedlings should be ready to transplant in 3-4 weeks. Transplant to 7cm pots and grow on. Transplant outdoors late spring into moist, well- drained soil, 30 to 45cm apart. Pinch out the centre to encourage branching Amaranthus Mira is a very pretty amaranthus which blends well with other Sow indoors at 21 deg C, 6-8 weeks before the last frost ,or Approx 40 $4.10 caudatus ‘Mira’ flowers, thus making it a florist’s favorite. It provides lovely direct in early summer at 21 deg C or higher. Sow in seed bicolored rose & green trailing flower ropes which can be combined trays or pots in moist seed raising mix. Cover seeds with soil with lime, burgundy, cream & just about anything else you can think very finely as light is required for germination. Seedlings up. It has lovely trailing stems and bright colorful leaves which makes should appear in 10- 14 days. The plants grow quickly so pot this a choice cut flower. Butterflies, bees and birds are attracted to on to prevent premature flowering. The seedlings should be the plant . Protect young plants from slugs and snails. Grows happily ready to transplant in 3-4 weeks. Transplant to 7cm pots and almost anywhere but best in full sun with some compost. grow on. Transplant outdoors late spring into moist, well- drained soil, 30 to 45cm apart. Pinch out the centre to encourage branching Amaranthus This annual plant is prized for its long lasting ability as a cutflower . It Sow directly where it is to flower in late spring once all danger Approx. 30 $4.10 cruentus ‘Hot Chili’ can be used as a very attractive specimen plant in the garden, and of frost has gone. Sow 7mm deep into soil which has been its arching spikes will add architectural texture to your garden. It well prepared and raked to a fine tilth. Germination takes 10- has striking dark red flower spikes held together in bunches, and 20 days at 20-24°C. When seedlings are large enough to

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

these are set off well by dark green leaves. Amaranthus prefers handle thin to 50cm spacing. fertile humus rich soil in full sun in a sheltered spot. It needs to be watered in dry periods and to get the best results feed regularly. Heavily laden stems need to be staked. Pinch out the centre of the stem to encourage side branching. At the end of flowering, leave a few plants to self-seed if desired. Amaranthus This annual plant is a long lasting cutflower . It has handsome flower As above Approx 40 $4.10 cruentus ‘Hot spikes in shades of brownish pink which are held upright, and these biscuits’ are set off well by dark green leaves. Amaranthus prefers fertile humus rich soil in full sun in a sheltered spot. It needs to be watered in dry periods and to get the best results feed regularly. Heavily laden stems need to be staked. Pinch out the centre of the stem to encourage side branching. At the end of flowering, leave a few plants to self-seed if desired. Amaranthus cruentis This is one of the darkest of red amaranths. As above Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Red Spike’ Its color and form is ideal for flower arrangements, especially in the autumn. It has gracefully arched, feathery plumes, which make it very much easier to use in floral arrangements than some of the other upright forms. When plants are young and leaves are tender, the foliage can be eaten as a green. Ammobium alatum Ammobium alatum is an attractive perennial plant. It is an Australian Sow 6-8 weeks before the last frost into cell pots in moist seed raising Approx. 50 $4.10 native. It has silver toned foliage which offsets the numerous small mix. Cover lightly with seed raising mix. Keep moist but not wet. papery white flowers, which have big golden centres. It is a great Water from the bottom of the pot. Germination takes 4-8 days at 18- flower for the garden flowering over an extended period in summer. 21 deg C. Transplant when large enough to a sunny spot in the garden in light well drained soil. It is a useful cut flower adding substance to bouquets. The flowers can also be dried. It is a hardy plant , which likes a sunny spot and can be spectacular en masse. However it is best treated as a annual in cold conditions. Anchusa azurea This plant has very lovely bright gentian blue flowers ,which start in The seeds can be sown at any time of the year. Cover the Approx 20 $4.10 spring and continue through summer. It makes a great display if seeds to their own depth, and keep them moist but not planted in groups. Its dense dark green foliage makes an attractive waterlogged at about 20 deg C. Germination should foil for the dazzling blue flowers. It grows to about 90 cm tall and so commence in 2-3 weeks. The plants have long taproots and is best placed in the middle of a flower bed .It likes full sun and a well resent disturbance so ensure that you transplant them when drained soil. This flower is attractive to bees and can be used fresh as they are quite small, into pots for growing on. Plant out when a garnish or in ice cubes for drinks. It is a hardy plant tolerating they are large enough minus 7 degrees and is also considered to be drought tolerant. Cut the plant back hard, to a couple of inches in midsummer after the plant has finished flowering . This will cause will cause regrowth and the plant will re-flower for you. The plant should be cut right back in late autumn in preparation for winter. Be careful when you handle

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

the leaves as they can cause skin rashes in some people. Anemone multifida This plant forms a low mound of green leaves which are shaped Sow under glass 4-6 weeks before the last frost, or outdoors Approx. 20 $4.10 ‘Anabella Deep somewhat like a fern. In late spring it produces a lovely display of in spring or autumn in moist seed raising mix. Cover the seed Rose’ single deep-rose, long-stemmed open flowers with a pale-yellow very lightly with soil and keep moist. Optimum germination centre in profusion. It does not need any special attention. The temperature 20 deg C. Germination takes 28-35 days. flowers produce attractive fluffy seedheads after they have finished blooming which add nterest to the garden in winter. This plant flowers best in full sun on rich, well-drained soil. It’s a good choice for a rock garden, a mixed border, or the edge of a woodland. It is drought tolerant, and resistant to rabbits. Butterflies are attracted to it. Antirrhinum majus This is a very old variety of snapdragon, which has all of the qualities Sow in trays or pots in early spring to early summer ,late Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Black Prince’ that make for a good garden flower, and it has survived for 100 summer and early autumn, and late winter . years to take its place as a great annual garden plant today. It has Sow onto the surface of moist seed raising mix . Don’t cover very beautiful soft dark burgundy black flowers which have a sheen as they need light to germinate. on them like velvet. It is a hardy plant which will flower beautifully in Germination takes 7-10 days at 15-20°C. Transplant when spring for you , or if you have some heating can also be grown in large enough winter. As a bonus it has lovely bronze foliage Antirrhinum majus The Potomac series is bred for long strong stems of flowers which are Sow in trays or pots in early spring to early summer ,late Approx. 30 $4.60 ‘Potomac Apple excellent in a vase or in the garden. The series is bred to withstand summer and early autumn, and late winter . Blossom’ heat . Apple Blossom has pale flowers with a darker pink centre, and Sow onto the surface of moist seed raising mix . Don’t cover makes a very pretty garden subject when planted in groups. as they need light to germinate. Germination takes 7-10 days at 15-20°C. Transplant when large enough Antirrhinum majus This plant has apricot orange flowers which are excellent in the vase As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Potomac Orange F1’ or the garden Antirrhinum majus This plant has white blooms on strong stems and is good in the As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Potomac White F1’ garden and as a cut flower. Antirrhinum majus This mix has very beautiful big ruffled flowers in many different As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Tetra Ruffled Giants shades and some of the flowers will be veined with a darker colour. Mix’ They have thicker petals and larger florets than ordinary snapdragons and will bloom right through summer and autumn until the first frost. They tolerate drought well. You can get them a head start in winter, by planting the seeds 6 to 10 weeks indoors before the last frost, or plant them outdoors when the soil warms to about 17 deg C.

Anthemis sancti- A handsome plant which forms a bushy mound. It has grey-green Sow directly Feb- October, ideally in spring. Broadcast sow Approx. 30 $4.10 johannis – (Roman ferny foliage and above this, rise many brilliant orange daisy type onto prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Rake

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Camomile) flowers. They are good for cutting. It is a hardy marguerite, and is in seed and firm down well. Water and weed. Germination one of the best choices for colour in the border throughout the takes 7-21 days at 21°C, longer in cooler weather. Thin to summer. It tolerates drought, and can adapt to poor soil. It loves the required spacing. sun and bears flowers from early summer. It is also a great container plant. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering, and shear them back to 6 inches if it becomes leggy at the end of the summer to give it a chance to renew itself during the winter. Aquilegia atrata This aquilegia is a lovely free flowering plant which has flowers of the Sow seed on the surface of moist seed raising mix in pots or Approx 30 $4.10 deepest black red on many branching stems up to 60 cm and is a trays. Cover seed with a very light sprinkling of seed raising sought after species plant for the summer garden. It blooms in late mix, as light helps germination. Put inside a polythene bag to spring and early summer. It prefers rich soils which have a good deal keep the moisture in. Keep at 15 to 20°C .Germination will of humous and full sun or partial shade. It is frost hardy. happen within 2 to 3 weeks. Aquilegia caerulea The star series of aquilegia were bred for their upward facing Sow seeds on the surface of moist seed raising mix. Cover Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Blue Star’ flowers. 'Blue star' is a long spurred flower which has a white corolla very lightly with seed mix as the seeds need light to and lovely blue to violet-blue petals. It is an easily grown plant and is germinate and keep at 15 - 20 deg C. keep the soil moist but quite hardy. It is happiest in dappled shade with moist well drained not wet. Seeds should germinate in 2-3 weeks soil. Aquilegia caerulea The star series of aquilegia were bred for their upward facing As above Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Crimson Star’ flowers. 'Crimson star' is a long spurred flower which has a white corolla and lovely crimson red petals. It is an easily grown plant and is quite hardy. It is happiest in dappled shade or full sun with moist well drained soil. Aquilegia caerulea This aquilegia has very pretty large melon-coloured flowers with a As above Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Koralle’ yellow corolla. the flowers have long spurs. Aquilegia caerulea This lovely plant won the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit. Sow in mid – late winter, spring and early summer, and Approx 20 $8.50 ‘State Series – The State Series ( or Swan Series as it is known in North America) is autumn. Sow in trays or pots. Cover the seeds very lightly Alaska’ the product of many years of hybridisation, which is known for its with seed raising mix and keep moist. Propagate at 20 deg C very large flowers. This plant is a very good garden performer , . Keep in cooler conditions at 14- 18 deg C after germination which produces flowers in abundance, very large pure white flowers, occurs. which are held above a mound of lacy fern like leaves, and appear to float in the evening light. It has multiple stems which are uniform and abundant, and makes a good garden cut flower. It blooms in late spring and summer. It likes full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Aquilegia flabellata This is a lovely and prolifically flowering dwarf variety of columbine Sow seeds onto a good seed raising mix. Cover the seeds with Approx. 20 $7.10 ‘Cameo Mixture’ which is one of the smallest growing and most compact of the fine grit or compost thinly. They can be sown at any time. columbines. It has very large flowers. The colours range through Keep evenly moist but not wet, at approx 20 degrees white, pink, blue and yellow and the flowers are borne above a C. Germination can be irregular so don’t discard the pot compact mound of greyish-green foliage. It blooms in spring and prematurely. summer and is attractive to butterflies. It likes partial sun, in moist

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

but well drained soil. It grows easily from seed. Aquilegia caerulea The Songbird Series is a F1 hybrid cross between McKana Group and Can be sown at any time. Sow onto moist seed raising mix , in Approx 20 $7.60 ‘Songbird Series Mrs. Scott-Elliot hybrids. It has especially large flowers 5-9 cm on pots or trays. Cover very thinly as light is needed for Mixed’ compact plants and is a popular choice for container growing, or germination. Best propagated at approx 20 degrees C. growing at the front of the garden. The plant produces flowers abundantly over the spring and summer seasons. This mix has yellow red, violet, blue, pink and white . The flowers usually have a white centre. The plant likes filtered light or part shade ,but will tolerate full sun, if the soil is kept moist, and they will bloom the first year from seed. Arctotis x Hybrida This strain is a colourful mix of many lovely colours on an easy care Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks, in trays or pots before the last Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘Harlequin Mixed’ plant which will bloom throughout summer for you, and , if you live frost ,or in late autumn or direct where they are to grow in Northern Districts where there is little frost, they will come back outdoors in late spring. Barely cover seed with soil. Keep each year. Otherwise further south , treat as an annual. evenly moist. Germination should take 7-35 days at 16-21 °C. Prefers a sunny position. Artemisia lactiflora This plant has creamy white panicles of sweetly scented tiny white These seeds are quite small so be careful when opening the Approx 40 $4.10 flowers which attract butterflies and bees. It is like a delicate giant seed packet. white astilbe, which flowers from late summer into late autumn in Sow the seeds in moist seed raising mix in pots or trays. Light warmer areas,on slightly curved arching stems. It won an Award of assists germination so don’t cover the seeds , but just press Garden Merit from the RHS in 1993.For those of you who want a them lightly into the mix. Keep at 20 deg C. keep them at plant which will fit well into natural landscaping and perennial cooler temperatures after germination occurs. borders , this is a good one. Although it prefers moist soils , it tolerates drought well and the green silver backed leaves have an aromatic scent. It is easy to grow, and will tolerate part shade. It makes a good cut flower. Cut back in the autumn. Aster novae angliae This is not the Michaelmas daisy of olden days. These plants flower Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Approx 20 $4.10 and novi belgii late into autumn, and are an indispensable part of the garden, as Press seeds lightly into soil but do not cover. Ideal temp. 20°C. ‘Composition’ - they produce an eye-catching display when very few other plants are Germination takes 10 days approx. Seeds must be kept damp (Michaelmas Daisy) still flowering. The plants resulting from this improved formula at all times or germination will cease. If germination does not mixture are lovely, and the brightly coloured single, semi-double and occur cold stratify. Move to 4.°C for 2-4 weeks then return to double flowers in many shades of ruby, rose, blue, violet and white warmth. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to will glow in the garden bringing late autumn colour and life to the 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and border. They are excellent for cutting. plant out after danger of frost has passed with 100cm spacing. Aster alpinus, This plant is used for rockeries or for edging in garden borders. This Sow indoors in spring. Sow onto moist well-drained seed Approx 20 $5.10 'Benary’s Trimix strain is a beautiful cultivated of the Alpine Aster. It is a mix of large compost. Press seeds lightly into soil but do not cover. Ideal Formula’ - (Alpine flowered blooms in pink, blue and white blooms, followed by fluffy temp. 20°C. Germination takes 10 days approx. Seeds must be aster) seedheads. It flowers early and forms a carpet of bright green leaves kept damp at all times or germination will cease. If . Its flowers are produced on branching stems with daisy-shaped germination does not occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C. for 2-4 flowers in late spring and early summer. It will self-seed to produce weeks then return to warmth. Transplant seedlings once large

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

successive generations, if allowed. enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Aster alpinus This plant has large, pretty, soft blue flowers which have a bright Sow in spring onto moist well-drained seed mix. Press seeds Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Goliath Blue’ – yellow centre. It is a great plant for a small space where you need lightly into soil but do not cover. Ideal temp. 20°C. (Alpine Aster) impact, but don't have much space. It forms a low mound of bright Germination takes 10 days approx. Seeds must be kept damp green leaves which are smothered with taller branching lilac-blue at all times or germination will cease. If germination does not flowers, and then later with fluffy seed heads, and the mound grows occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C.(door or veg compartment of slowly to about 30cm in diameter. The bees and butterflies are fridge) for 2-4weeks then return to warmth. Transplant attracted to it. It is an early summer blooming species, which will self seedlings once large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow seed a little if allowed. It is often grown in rock gardens or used for on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after edging a garden border. danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Aster callistephus Aster 'Giant Ray White' produces extra large peony type flowers in a Sow Spring to early summer. Ideal soil temp 22 deg. C . Approx 30 $4.10 chinensis ‘Giant Ray clear white. The flowers are borne on bushy well-branched plants. It Prefers a sunny position, sow 5mm deep , in pots, trays or White’ is sought after for its finely pointed petals which create a frilly effect. direct in the garden bed. It makes an excellent cut flower as well as a great display in the garden. It is an annual and as it grows to approx 60cm, it has good, long stems for cutting. It prefers a sunny position, in well-drained soil. Aster callistephus This intriguing aster is an excellent cut flower, and lasts well in the Sow in trays or pots in a well drained seed raising mix. Cover Approx 20 $4.10 chinensis ‘Hulk’ vase. It looks like a green flowered Aster, but in fact it has green seed lightly with vermiculite after sowing. Keep evenly bracts in place of petals, surrounding a central yellow disk. It moist. Germination should take 10-12 days at 20-21 °C. produces many flowers on well branched stems. The flowers are Transplant after 3-4.10 weeks to larger pots. Grow on at 14- approximately 12 cm wide. Aster 'Hulk' flowers in late summer. Do 16 °C. Callistephus do not grow temperatures below 8 °C and not bother to deadhead spent blossoms as 'Hulk' will not re-flower do not tolerate frost. The lower the temperature, the better since long day lengths are required for flower bud formation.Aster the plant habit but onset of flowering will be a little delayed. 'Hulk' is happiest in full sun, but can take some partial shade. It grows Lower temperatures combined with short days cause the to about 60 cm. It is susceptible to some fungus infections so avoid development of a leaf rosette and short stems. overwatering or poorly drained soils. Aster callistephus This aster has small blue shaded flowers on a compact bush As above Approx. 40 $4.10 chinensis ‘Lilliput Blue Moon’ Aster callistephus Tower Chamois has cream-salmon flowers on long strong stems with As above Approx 30 $4.10 chinensis ‘Tower 13 – 20 stems per plant, and looks like a peony with its lovely Chamois’ incurved petals. It makes an excellent cut flower. Aster callistephus This plant has blooms which make beautiful cut flowers , and are As above Approx 30 $4.10 chinensis ‘Tower peony shaped. Silver’ They are an easy-to-grow annual, which has all of the beauty of peonies. The blooms are bicolour in frosted white with lavender tips and there are about 13–20 stems per plant. Flowers are approx 7cm

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

across.The Tower series is best known for its uniform bloom time and plant height. Aster callistephus This fascinating aster mixture has very large 15 cm flowers with Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date, or sow Approx 30 $4.10 chinensis ‘Tiger Paw needle like petals which swirl in patterns like the upper fur of a directly where they are to flower once the soil has warmed. Mixed’ tigers paw.The plant is reasonably wilt-tolerant and the blooms are The seed may be direct sown in late spring where the plants produced on stout 60cm stems. It is easy to grow, and likes a sunny are to flower, but in this case flowering will start later. spot in the garden. It will provide cut flowers throughout summer, Sowing Indoors: early spring which will last for 8 to 10 days in water. Cut when flowers are half- Sow into trays of seed raising mix, barely cover the seeds open; recut stems underwater. This mix contains white, salmon, with a sprinkling of seed mix or vermiculite. pale pink, deep rose, and blue. A bouquet of these large flowered When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into asters make a strong statement , and because they have such an 7.5cm pots or trays. Handle the plants with care . unusual form they combine very well with other flowers in the Gradually harden off for 10 to 14 days before transplanting garden bed, border, or vase. Remove spent flower heads to promote into the flowering site in early Summer. Light spring frosts will further flowering. Don't over water but do not let the soil dry out. not harm the plants. Plant 25 to 4cm apart. Aphids can be a nuisance. Direct Sowing: spring Sow thinly, 6mm deep in small clumps . Sow 30cm apart in soil which has been raked finely. Water ground regularly. When large enough to handle, thin out seedlings until they are finally 30cm apart Aster callistephus This plant is an easy to grow annual , which resembles a delicious Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or direct Approx. 40 $4.10 chinensis ‘King Size salmon pink peony in its colour and form. This plant has 8cm double, where they are to grow outdoors in late spring. Sow in trays Apricot’ light apricot-colored flowers. King Size Apricot plants are taller than or pots or direct. Barely cover seed with soil. Keep evenly Tower Chamois and equally as productive. It has blooms in a warm moist. Germination should take 10-12 days at 20-21 °C. apricot tone. Transplant after 3-4 weeks to larger pots. Grow on at 14-16 °C. Prefers a sunny position. Callistephus do not grow in temperatures below 8 °C and do not tolerate frost. The lower the temperature, the better the plant habit but onset of flowering will be a little delayed. Lower temperatures combined with short days cause the development of a leaf rosette and short stems.

Aster tongolensis This very showy aster is unlike any other aster. It is prized by florists Sow seeds at anytime. Sow in trays or pots Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Wartburg as it is an excellent , long lasting cut flower. It bears beautiful rich Barely cover seed with soil. Keep evenly moist. Germination Star’ violet blue flowers all through summer, with golden centres. The 5 should take 3-4 weeks at 20-21 °C. Transplant after 4 weeks cm flowers are produced singly, on lovely long wiry 30 cm stems to larger pots. Prefers a sunny position with average which are perfect for cutting, and the blue daisies are produced in moisture. masses. They are loved by all pollinating insects. This plant will

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

spread by rhizomes gradually, ending up eventually as a clump about 4 – 50 cm wide. It likes full sun and moderately fertile soil with average moisture. You can divide the clumps in autumn if you need to . Astrantia major This plant is both long flowering and long lived. It has very showy star For best results, sow seeds as soon as you receive them Approx 20 $4.10 (Great Masterwort) shaped heads from which pink, green or white bracts radiate Moisten a plain kitchen paper towel and squeeze out to wafting a sweet scent . Each blossom is an umbel of tiny flowers eliminate excess moisture. Fold in 4. Into 1 fold place the surrounded by a whorl of papery bracts. It flowers continuously seeds, and put in a kitchen plastic ziplock bag or similar throughout summer and autumn. It prefers part shade and rich moist together with a plastic plant tag with the day’s date. Seal the soil, with cooler night time temperatures in the summer, and is very plastic bag loosely. Keep at 18-22 deg C for 2-4weeks. Now useful for that shady spot where many other sun lovers will not move to -4 to +4 deg C (fridge door) for 4-6 weeks. Inspect for grow. It is not common in most gardens, but should be better known germination every week, and keep moist. If germination and cultivated according to many knowledgeable gardeners. It is occurs carefully lift out the seed and pot up at 5 – 12 deg C, native to Central and Eastern Europe. Astrantia make excellent, long covering lightly with seed raising mix. After 6 weeks, move lasting cut flowers. the remaining ungerminated seeds to 5-12 deg C for germination.

Astilbe arendsii This plant produces violet, red, pink, cream and white flowers in Sow the seeds thinly in early spring, onto the surface of moist Approx 50 4.10 ‘Bunter Zauber’ summer on a background of dark green leaves which are serrated seed raising mix , in pots or trays. Press the seeds lightly into and set off the flowers perfectly. The plant forms a clump, with the soil and do not cover with mix, as light is required for slender flowering pannicles. germination. Keep the mix moist but not waterlogged by It is a plant which does not mind shade, but must have adequate watering from the bottom of the tray .Germinate at a light to flower. In northern regions of NZ they will be best in moist constant 20 deg C. Germination will occur in 28 -35 days. shady spots which still get adequate light ( the south side of your Once germination occurs keep at cooler temperatures. Plant house should be good so long as there is light and the soil doesn’t dry out after the last frost. out too much ). In Southern regions give them more sun but part shade.They need rich moist soil and lots of compost This plant is a good cut flower and makes great dried bouquets.

Astrantia maxima This plant has beautifully architectural upward facing, green bracted, As for Astrantia major Approx 20 $4.10 (Masterwort) pure rose pink flowers which stand well out above the green foliage. This astrantia is the astrantia which everyone wants. It is long lived and has a very long flowering period, and together with its structurally beautiful flowers and plant form it is no wonder that it is so desirable. And ...It also makes a great long lasting cut flower. Astrantia major Astrantia Major "Primadonna" is an excellent cultivated variety As for Astrantia major Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Primadonna’ – which forms bushy compact plants, above which appear long (Masterwort) stemmed handsome flowers of wine to deep wine red. The flower buds are deep rose pink when they first appear in late spring, and they have darker veining running through the bract leaves. The

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

flower size is about 4 cm. The papery bracts can remain attractive for months. Astrantia major This lovely astrantia has strong stems which bear bright rose red , As for Astrantia major Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Rose Symphony’ – shading purple and pink shaded bracts. The bracts appear to have (Masterwort) almost a metallic quality to them.The plant flowers in late spring to summer, and is a good cut flower which also dries well. It does best in dappled shade in rich moist soil. It needs to be kept moist and will not do well in dry soil.

Atriplex hortensis This plant , which seems to shimmer in the light, provides an Sow after last frost. Direct sow - Sow where they are to grow Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Green Plume’ interesting, textural element to design work and is used as a filler in or sow in cell packs. Cover seed 2cm deep,. cut flower arrangements. It has 30 -50 cm, pea-green plumes on Direct: sow 25 cm apart. long, strong stems. Indoors : sow in cell packs : harden off and transplant The stems bear many small, paper-thin seed pods. This plant is easy outdoors after last frost. to grow and combines easily with other colours in bouquets. Germination will take 7-14 days at 20 – 22 deg C.

Aubrieta cultorum This plant produces loads of very large blue flowers on a trailing plant Sow spring or autumn. Best sown where they are to grow, but can be Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Cascade Blue’ which will spread over dry banks and walls. It produces an amazing sown in trays or pots. Sow into prepared soil which is fine grained. display in spring, when the entire plant is covered in flowers. The Ideal temperature is 18-20°C. Thin seedlings to 5cm spacing. If sown actual plant height is only 10 – 15 cm high in flower but the spread is indoors, surface sow onto moist seed compost. Just cover seed with soil. Propagate 18-21°C. Germination takes 14-21 days approx. When 25 to 50 cm wide. It likes full sun but will grow in partial shade if the seedlings appear ensure they have plenty of air movement so that situation is hot. they don't dampen off. Transplant seedlings to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowing will flower the next year.

Aubrieta cultorum This plant forms a small cushion of evergreen leaves and smothers As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Royal Red’ itself with flowers in spring. ‘Royal red’ contains a range of crimson red to pink flowers which are borne over grey-green leaves. It is a great filler for bare spots in the garden and is often used to nestle between rocks. Bracteantha These tall and well branched plants have a mixture of peach and Sow 6-8 weeks before the last frost in trays or pots in moist Approx 30 $4.10 bracteata apricot flowers. They make great cut flowers and dried flowers seed raising mix. Do not cover seed as light is required for ‘Apricot/Peach Mix’ germination. Bottom water or mist to avoid covering seeds with mix. Seeds wil germinate in 7-14 days at about 21-24 deg C. Transplant to cell packs or larger containers when the first true leaves appear. Harden off and transplant outside after the danger of frost has passed Bracteantha These plants are tall and well branched. They bear lovely double pure As above Approx 30 $4.10 bracteata ‘Silver to creamy white flowers which are tinged with rose at the tops of the

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Rose’ petals. The rose colour darkens as the flower matures and opens fully , producing a pretty colour effect of light and shade. Briza maxima This is a very beautiful slender annual grass, which is a very useful Briza is best sown where it is to grow. Sow in spring and in Approx. 20 $3.00 addition to the garden and also is a pretty cut flower. It produces autumn. Sow the seeds in lightly firmed soil which has been pale green papery seed heads which look like tiny paper lanterns raked to a fine tilth. which dance and glint in the sun in a light breeze. It is an excellent Sow in rows 6mm deep and cover lightly with soil. Rows addition to the garden border to provide interest and movement. If should be 30 cm apart. Ideal temp is 20 – 22 deg C. Thin the seed heads are included in a flower arrangement in a dark area, seedlings to 23 cm apart and replant the seedlings you have it will catch stray beams of light and reflect them with a shimmering removed in the thinning out process. Germination can be quality like droplets of water. The seed heads dry well and can be slow used in dried arrangements. It will self sow politely for you and is never a nuisance. Briza media This is a beautiful and useful fine grass which has very small delicate As above Approx 20 $4.10 heart shaped greenish purple seed heads which appear in spring in a cloud above very fine dark green leaves. It is a very good cut flower and can be successfully dried. It grows to about 60 cm . The foliage will stay evergreen in mild regions. It can be divided in early spring or autumn. Calamintha nepeta This is a very valuable , seemingly perpetual flowering perennial Sow spring and autumn. Sow in trays or pots in moist seed Approx 40 $4.10 ssp nepeta ‘White which is very useful for edging borders. It forms mounds of sweetly raising mix. Sow seeds on the surface of seed raising mix and Cloud Strain’ scented leaves and bears clouds of dainty white flowers in short cover very finely with mix. Keep moist but not saturated, at sprays. The plant flowers its heart out through summer and into 20 deg. C. Germination will take about 7 – 21 days. Transfer autumn and is very attractive to bees and butterflies to 8cm pots when large enough to handle and plant out when danger of frost is over.

Calendula officinalis This calendula is such a bonus in your garden , flowers almost non Sow seeds using a well-drained soil or seed raising mix and Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Neon’ stop from spring to autumn, and can be used as a cut flower. It has lightly cover the seeds with soil/seed raising mix. Optimum vibrant deep orange flowers which are edged with a dark red. The germination temperature is 21°C. Seeds can be sown indoors flowers are very double. Its petals can be used in garnishes. about 4-6 weeks before the last frost or outdoors when soil temperatures are warming up. Calendula officinalis This calendula has lovely frilly apricot flowers which are slightly As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Pink Surprise’ tinged with pink. It should really be called ‘Apricot surprise’. It will produce flowers over a long period so long as the seed heads are trimmed. They are easy to grow and don’t seem to be bothered by many pests. It makes a very good cut flower, and can also be used to advantage in pots and bedding. Calendula officinalis This calendula has a beautiful double frilly flower. Its face is a As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Zeolights’ delightful lollipop mixture of pink and lemon and the back of the flower is maroon. It will brighten up the dullest garden.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

It will produce flowers over a long period so long as the seed heads are trimmed. Calendula are easy to grow and don’t seem to be bothered by many pests. It makes a very good cut flower, and can also be used to advantage in pots and bedding. Campanula lactiflora There are a number of different flower colours included in this mix, Sow indoors in late winter and spring. Can be30 sown directly Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘New Hybrids’ ranging from blue-purple to white and pink. The blooms smother Nov-Dec. Sow direct where they are to grow or in pots or 50cm – 1 metre tall stems which they are produced on. They grow trays. Sow onto the surface of moist well-drained seed well in full sun to light shade in well drained soils. Large numbers of compost, press in lightly. Do not cover with soil, light is flowers are produced in heavy clusters on branched stems. They needed for germination. Propagate 18-20°C. Germination bloom in summer . They are long lived plants which are eye- takes 14-28 days. Once germinated admit air to prevent catching in bloom. They prefer composted rich soil were they can damping off, but can often be much slower. When large grow to eventually the 1 metre tall. They begin blooming in enough to handle transplant seedlings to 8cm pots and grow midsummer and may flower through until late summer. They are on in cooler conditions. Plant out once danger of frost has abundant bloomers which put on a lovely display in summer, and passed with 50cm spacing. are also great as cut flowers . Campanula lactiflora Campanula Pritchard’s Variety has large clustering heads of deep Sow indoors in late winter and spring. Can be sown directly Approx. 70 $4.10 ‘Pritchard’s Variety’ - violet blue star shaped flowers on branching stems throughout Nov-Dec. Sow direct where they are to grow or in pots or (Milky Bellflower) summer. The medium green leaves are lance shaped and set off the trays. Sow onto the surface of moist well-drained seed beautiful blooms. The large clusters of flowers appear from February compost, press in lightly. Do not cover with soil, light is to May, and the plants grow to about 60 cm with a spread of about needed for germination. Propagate 18-20°C. Germination 60 cm. This is an old cottage garden classic, and has always been takes 14-28 days, but can often be much slower. Once appreciated for its stately elegance. Campanula Lactiflora likes sun or germinated admit air to prevent damping off. When large partial shade, in moist but well drained fertile soil. This will enough to handle transplant seedlings to 8cm pots and grow encourage plenty of growth and flowers. It will retain its flower on in cooler conditions. Plant out once danger of frost has colour best in partial shade. passed with 50cm spacing. Campanula Campanula Telham Beauty is not as common as it once was, which is Seeds can be sown at any time but are best sown in winter or Approx. 25 $5.10 persicafolia ‘Telham a pity as it is such a pretty plant. It is one of the old cottage garden early spring to benefit from a cold spell in the wet compost to Beauty’ -(Peach favourites. It has up to 8 cm sized extremely beautiful, china blue, break their dormancy. Press the seed into the surface of the leaved bellflower) bell shaped flowers which face outwards on stems which can be up soil. Light is needed for germination. If the seeds do not come to 90 cm high. It blooms from spring to the end of summer in up within 6 to 12 weeks the damp seed tray can be given cold conditions that suit it. it forms dense clumps of shiny green leaves, treatment in a fridge for about four weeks. They may still take which should be divided every few years to reinvigorate it. It is very many months to appear, so please never discard the pot a well-mannered plant, which thrives in full sun and rich well or tray. When large enough to handle transplant seedlings to drained soil. The flowers are very good for cutting and last well. 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Plant out once danger of frost has passed with 4cm spacing. Campanula This plant is one of the most popular campanulas. It grows slowly Seeds can be sown at any time but are best sown in winter or Approx 100 $4.10 persicifolia, 'White into a mound shaped plant. early spring to benefit from a cold spell in the wet compost to Bell' – (Peach leaved break their dormancy. Press the seed into the surface of the bellflower) It has pure white, cup-shaped flowers appearing from mid soil. Light is needed for germination. If the seeds do not come December to January, the large nodding bell shaped flower stalks are up within 6 to 12 weeks the damp seed tray can be given cold

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

held above glossy mounds of attractive, emerald green, strap-like treatment in a fridge for about four weeks. They may still take foliage to 75cm.The flowers are good for cutting. It likes moist but very many months to appear, so please never discard the pot well drained soil, and a full sun aspect for at least 6 hours per day. or tray. When large enough to handle transplant seedlings to Can tolerate some shade. It is native to the mountains of Europe and 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Plant out once Asia. danger of frost has passed with 4cm spacing. Campanula This campanula is a lovely addition to the garden, and is seldom For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx. 30 $4.10 sarmatica found outside of specialist nurseries. It makes a compact mound of based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to felted wavy edged grey green leaves. From this mound arises a stem approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any up to 50cm high which bears many soft blue (sometimes white) time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 flared flowers. It is sun and frost tolerant, can take partial shade, and to 20 degrees C. However, one can also sow most seeds in an is native to the Caucasus. It should be grown in very well drained soil. unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as Rabbits do not eat it. many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs. Campanula This diminutive campanula is native to the mountains of Croatia and Seeds can be sown at any time but are best sown in winter or Approx 30 $4.10 tommasiniana - adjoining areas. It forms a small leafy, compact plant. The flowers early spring to benefit from a cold spell in the wet compost to (Croatian Bellflower) are nodding and unusually narrow. They are bell shaped and blue in break their dormancy. One should cover the seeds very thinly colour, and form on long elongated leafy stems. This plant has a with sand or fine grit to about the depth of the seed size. If cascading habit and so can be very pretty planted on the top of a wall the seeds do not come up within 6 to 12 weeks the damp or in a rock garden. It blooms from early to midsummer. It has been seed tray can be given cold treatment in a fridge for about awarded a Royal Horticultural award of merit. four weeks. They may still take very many months to appear, so please never discard the pot or tray Campanula This beautiful perennial plant is a clump forming , non-spreading For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 100 $4.10 trachelium alba plant. It is an old favourite in the cottage garden. It produces very based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to pretty pure white bell shaped flowers on long spires which are borne approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any abundantly during summer and autumn. The leaves are quite thickly time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 set on the plant with a strong, hairy texture. Campanula trachelium is to 20 degrees C. However, one can sow most seeds in an found on hedge banks and woods, and is native to England. It likes unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as full sun but can cope with partial shade. It likes a well-drained soil many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often rich in humus, but is reasonably hardy and can tolerate some wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are dryness, if it is well mulched. sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs. Celosia cristata These plants have 60 cm stems with 15 cm velvety flowers shaped a Sow in late spring and summer. Sow in trays or pots in moist Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Chief Mix’ little like cauliflowers. This range was selected for the cut flower seed raising mix. Cover seeds with a 1cm layer of soil. Cover market , but they are spectacular in the garden as well. There is a the containers with clear plastic to keep the soil mix moist . mix of rich colours: Carmine, Fire, Gold, Persimmon, Red, and Rose. Ideal temp 23 deg C . Germination takes 1-3 weeks. Flowers last for 3 weeks in a vase. When the seedlings germinate, remove the plastic covers and place in a warm spot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Grow on at 19 deg C.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Celosia cristata This plant is a superb cut flower, lasting 3 weeks in a As above Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Bombay New Mix’ vase.The mixture comes in shades of bronze, cherry, pink, purple, red, rose and yellow shades. It grows about 1.2 cm tall, and can be approx 30 -4 cm wide. This high quality celosia was selected specifically for greenhouse and field grown cut flower production, but is great in the garden as well. This plant blooms 3-4.10 weeks earlier than other celosias, and produces many stems for cutting. Flowers are ready in about 11-13 weeks. Centaurea cyanus This plant has many 3cm flowers on upright plants. The flowers These plants are best sown directly where they are to grow , Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Classic Magic’ produced can be double and semidouble bicolor blooms in black & but can also be sown in trays or pots. ideal temperature for plum, black & white, and purple. The flowers have a misty frosty germination is 16-18 deg C. appearance. They can be added to salads and desserts, as they are edible. Direct sow: Cover the seed lightly. Keep soil surface moist until emergence. When seedlings have first true leaves, thin to 6-9" apart.In pots or trays indoors: Sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. Transplant into cell packs or larger containers when the first true leaves appear. Centaurea This plant is a handsome architectural specimen for the garden, as Sow spring or autumn. Approx 20 $4.10 macrocephala well as being an easy care plant. Huge brown buds open into large 10 Sow seeds in seed trays or containers in seed raising mix. cm attractive yellow flowers which look somewhat like those of a Moisten the mix by standing the container in water, then let it thistle, in midsummer. The blooms are attractive to butterflies and drain. perform very well as a cut flower. The plant is quite hardy and will Cover the seeds with a 1cm layer of soil - centaureas need withstand drought and some neglect and still produce its handsome darkness to germinate. Use a fine spray to moisten the top. flowers each summer for you. It is a great plant for the back border Cover the trays or containers with clear plastic to keep the or for a place where you need an easy care plant , which will also mix moist while the seeds are germinating and place in a show off a little in summer. warm location, around 20°C. Germination takes 3 to 4 weeks. When the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic covers and put the tray/pots in a sunny location. Water as needed to keep the mix moist (not soggy). Transplant into final position in full or partial sun in any average soil. Give them room to spread, space about 60cm apart. Water the planting well. Centaurea montana This plant forms a bushy mound of greyish - green leaves. It is a Sow spring or autumn Approx 20 $4.10 – (Mountain Bluet) medium growing plant which likes a sunny position. It bears large Sow in seed trays or pots in seed raising mix. Moisten the mix showy, deeply fringed, violet blue flowers in early summer. It will and let it drain. bloom again for you in autumn if you cut it back after its first Cover the seeds with a 1cm layer of soil as centaureas need flowering. This plant is very hardy, and will grow in most types of darkness to germinate. soils and climate regions. It may self-seed , so if you don't want them, Cover the containers with clear plastic to keep the mix moist weed them out as you see them. You can prune the plant back hard while the seeds are germinating and place in a warm location

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

in mid-summer to maintain a compact habit. Centaurea Montana 16 to 22°C . Germination takes 3 to 4 weeks. makes a good cut flower. When the seedlings germinate, remove the plastic covers and place in a sunny spot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. When seedlings are about 5cm high and have at least one pair of true leaves, transplant to individual pots to grow on. Transplant when large enough to a sunny or partially shaded spot in the garden- allow 60cm space between plants, and water well. Centaurea moschata This is an easily grown annual plant, which has been a cottage garden Indoors: Sow autumn. Seed must be pre-chilled for 5 days at Approx 30 $3.00 ‘Imperial Mix’ – favourite through the ages. It has pretty fluffy flowers in shades of 4°C before sowing. Cover seed with 6 mm of fine soil and firm (Sweet Sultan) pink white yellow and purple, which are sweetly scented. These lightly. Germinate at 18-21°C for 7 days in total flowers make very good cut flowers when picked just as they open. darkness. Grow seedlings at 10°C to prevent rapid soft Plants prefer dry locations. growth. Centaureas do not transplant well. Direct Sowing: Sow outdoors in autumn and spring, pre-chill as above and cover with 6mm fine soil as above, thin to 20 cm apart. If soil is well drained and they are given light protection, plants should over-winter and flower before early outdoor spring sowings. Centaurea moschata As above but pure white As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Imperial White Bride’ – (Sweet Sultan) Centaurea ruthenica This is a very rare plant from Russia and Romania. It has long Sow indoors. Sow 2mm deep into moist well-drained seed Approx. 20 $6.10 –(Russian straight green 120 cm stems, with prominent dark green, pointed raising mix. Cover thinly with seed raising mix. Keep seed in Knapweed, Star ferny foliage with grey undersides. Its flowers have fluffy thistle-style constant moisture (not wet) with temperatures of about thistle) heads which are a pale citron yellow with very fine crinkled tissue +20°C . Approx germination time 7-14 days, but germination buff-colored bracts . This is a rare plant from eastern Europe can sometimes be quite slow and irregular. Keep in cooler and very few fertile seeds are collected.The plant tolerates some conditions after germination occurs. Transplant seedlings drought,and likes well drained soil in a sunny position. Foliage dies once large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Also can be sown down in winter and reemerges in spring. It is a good plant for the mid direct into prepared, raked soil 30cm apart. Thin to 15cm to back border of a garden. It is native to South Russia to Central spacing when large enough to handle. Romania. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Cephalaria gigantea This plant is best placed at the back of the border as it grows to Sow in late autumn to early spring. Sow in good quality seed Approx. 20 $7.10 approx 1.5metres. However it doesn't take up much room as the raising mix , in pots or trays. Cover very lightly with mix as flowers and leaves are compact and airy. The flowers are large and light is needed for germination. Put the pot /tray into a plastic resemble scabiosa or pin cushion flowers . They are a pretty creamy bag and keep at 18-21 deg C . Make sure that the seed mix is light yellow. kept slightly moist but not wet. Avoid direct sunlight by shading seeds after sowing. Germinates in 2 to 3 weeks at 18 to 21°C . As soon as the first seed germinates remove the plastic bag.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle into 9-10cm pots after about 4 weeks. Grow on at about 10°C . Transplant out when large enough and after all danger of frost has gone. Space the plants 30 to 60cm apart. Chrysanthemum This strain is perfect for that time in autumn when your flower beds Sow 2mm deep into moist well-drained seed compost. Approx 30 $4.10 (Autumn Flowering) are looking a bit ragged, and will liven them up. Propagate 15-20°C. Germination takes 10-18 days. Transplant indicum, 'Korean The mix has the chrysanthemum colour range of crimsons, yellows, seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Hybrids Mixed’ - purples, reds, whites and more, in single and semi double forms. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed (Autumn Flowering Although usually grown from cuttings, they are simple to raise from with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from October into Chrysanthemum ) seeds - sown early enough (even as late as October), they germinate well prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. easily, and with little difficulty they will bloom the same year. This group sometimes called "florists chrysanthemums" are very popular both in the garden and for cut flowers. Cirsium japonicum This plant is an extremely appealing garden subject as it has unusual Sow in pots or trays in spring. Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Pink Beauty’ jagged leaves which resembke a thistle, above which are borne Cover seeds lightly with seed raising mix. Ideal temperature beautiful pink fluffy blooms, which not only look spectacular in the around 20 deg C. Keep moist but not waterlogged. Seeds will garden , but are also excellent cut flowers. germinate in 10 -21 days.

Clematis integrifolia This is a compact clematis which has large bell shaped flowers in Sow spring and autumn. Sow in trays or pots in moist seed Approx. 20 $5.10 ‘Mongolian Bells’ shades of blue, lavender, pink, purple blue and white. It grows in a raising mix. compact bushy form, and looks good as a small individual plant or Sow seeds on the surface of seed raising mix and cover finely. can also be used with several plants grown together as a ground Keep moist but not saturated, at approx. 20 deg. C. cover. Germination should take place in about 7 – 21 days, but can be erratic and take much longer . If germination does not occur after 3-4 weeks, place the tray or pot in a plastic bag , seal and put into the fridge for 2-4 weeks . Bring out to the warmth for germination. This process can be repeated . Do not discard the seed tray prematurely! Transfer seedlings to 8cm pots when large enough to handle, acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost is over.

Consolida regalis This is a totally different larkspur from the normal larkspurs. It is a Seedlings do not transplant well, so it is best sown directly in Approx 40 $4.10 (Delphinium very attractive bushy annual plant which produces masses of pretty spring outside into prepared soil. The fine seeds should chinensis) ‘ Blue little blue flowers all summer long, which are borne in clouds rather germinate on the surface of soil. 14-21 days for germination. Cloud’ than spikes or clusters. They are excellent as cut flowers for use in You may plant in a greenhouse, late summer/autumn for the bouquets, and they can also be dried . Bees and butterflies love it. It following year. If germination does not occur try cold is an easy to grow wildflower. Note: All plant parts are poisonious in stratification for 2 weeks. Move to -4-+4°C for 2-4 weeks then large doses return to warmth. Heat is not required for germination, in fact high temperatures can cause dormancy. Coreopsis This is an easily grown perennial, which has sunny yellow flowers Sow in spring , indoors in seed trays or pots. Surface sow onto Approx 20 $4.10

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

grandiflora ‘Heliot’ with brown centres. It flowers in early summer and continues moist well-drained seed compost. Lightly cover seed with soil. flowering until autumn. ‘Heliot’ flowers profusely within the first Propagate 20-25°C. Germination takes 21-30 days. Transplant year of planting, unlike many perennials, and comes back year after seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. year. The single daisy-like blooms measure 4–5 cm in diameter and Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed will be a striking feature of your summer garden, which will often with 50cm spacing. capture the attention of visitors. The compact and uniform habit of ‘Heliot’ makes it useful for the creation of lovely front of border displays and also containers. ‘Heliot’ grows vigorously without very much care, and doesn't really mind what kind of soil you put it in so long as the soil has some moisture in it, and the position is sunny. Heliot has won the Fleuroselect award for garden excellence Coreopsis tinctoria This is a selection of double bicolour flowers which has been As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Roulette’ awarded a fleuroselect prize. It has rich, velvety mahogany red petals which have rays of bright yellow streaks. There may be the occasional yellow flower with dark red streaks as well. The flowers look a little like a roulette wheel and hence the plants name. This plant flowers right through the summer regardless of the heat hunidity , drought and rainy weather. Butterflies and bees love them Cosmos bipinnatus This cosmos has blossoms which are shaped like cupcakes as the As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Cupcakes Mix’ petals are fused together into one single cup. Blooms are single and semi-double in shades of pink and white. They can be used in beds, borders, and containers Cosmos bipinnatus This showy cosmos has large fully and semi double bicolour flowers Sow indoors prior to last expected frost. Sow directly after Approx 30 $4.60 ‘Double Click which are quite variable and range in colour from pink through to danger of frost has passed. Indoors, sow into moist, well- bicolour Pink’ white. Flower colours range from a contrasting dark pink edge on a drained seed compost. Just cover with a sprinkling of soil. bright white flower to soft, creamy white with blush of pink. The Ideal temp. 21°C. Germination takes 1-2 weeks. Transplant flowers can be up to 7 cm across, on a tall plant which has abundant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and flowers. It is good for picking having long strong stems. It flowers grown on under glass. Acclimatise and plant out after danger from summer through into autumn and makes a great cut flower. It of frost has passed. Directly, sow into moist well-drained soil, makes a pretty statement in the garden, and will also make a good keep moist until plants are established. container subject.

It likes full sun in average medium moisture, well drained soils. Don’t put into rich fertile soils or fertilise, as it will put all its energy into growing taller and producing more leaves at the expense of flowers and will flop over. Pinch out tips for a bushier plant

Cosmos bipinnatus This new beautiful cosmos has large fluffy double pure white flowers Sow indoors prior to last expected frost. Sow directly after Approx 30 $4.60 ‘Double Click Snow up to 7 cm across, on a tall plant which has abundant flowers. It danger of frost has passed. Indoors, sow into moist, well-

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Puff’ flowers from summer through into autumn and makes a great cut drained seed compost. Just cover with a sprinkling of soil. flower. It makes a pretty statement in the garden, and will also make Ideal temp. 21°C. Germination takes 1-2 weeks. Transplant a good container subject. It likes full sun in average medium seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and moisture, well drained soils. Don’t put into rich fertile soils or grown on under glass. Acclimatise and plant out after danger fertilise, as it will put all its energy into growing taller and producing of frost has passed. Directly, sow into moist well-drained soil, more leaves at the expense of flowers and will flop over. Pinch out keep moist until plants are established. tips for a bushier plant Cosmos bipinnatus Daydream has pretty warm pale pink flowers with a central deep As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Daydream’ pink disk Cosmos bipinnatus Fizzy Rose has soft pink flowers have a surrounding edge of deeper As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Fizzy Rose Picotee’ pink Cosmos bipinnatus Fizzy white has pure white flowers with a surrounding edge of deep As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Fizzy White Picotee’ pink Cosmos bipinnatus This cosmos has big, bright white petals which are striped and edged As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Peppermint Twist’ with rosy-red and have bright yellow centres. The flowers are borne on 1 metre tall stems throughout summer. This is an easy care beauty that performs well in the garden and makes an attractive bedding plant and cutflower which is attractive to birds and butterflies. Cosmos sulphureus An eye-catching small bushy annual plant which has bright red As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Cosmic red’ flowers with intense yellow centres all summer long. It is good for the front of border and can be used as an attractive container plant. Easy to grow and requires very little care. Grow in full sun and moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Deadhead to prolong flowering. Cynoglossum This forget-me-not is a well-known cottage garden plant, which is a Sow directly where it is to flower just before last expected Approx. 30 $4.10 amabile pretty gap filler. It has brilliant bright blue forget-me-not like flowers frosts. Sow 5mm deep into prepared soil which has been on long stems in the height of summer. It is quick and easy to grow raked to a fine tilth. Seed should be covered as it germinates and self seeds easily. Deadhead if self-seeding is not required. It in darkness. Ideal temp. 18-22°C. Germination takes 5-10 days makes a good cut flower, and will repeat well as long as you cut off approx. Thin seedlings as required. Can be started indoors if the spent flower heads. preferred 6-8 weeks prior to last frost date with seedlings moved outside after danger of frost has passed. Can be sown It will grow in full sun or part shade and will tolerate dry conditions. directly in autumn for flowering the following year. Prefers any soil, other than very heavy clay, which is moist but well-drained in full sun or part shade. It is best treated as an annual. Delphinium alatum This is a wonderful mixture of open pollenated New Millenium Can be sown at anytime, but if you sow in autumn/spring you Approx. 20 $5.10 ‘New Millennium delphiniums from selected stock.There is a wide variety of colour will get flowers in December or January. Sow in pots or trays Series New Zealand shades, outstanding colours and flower shapes, with magnificently .For best germination, temperatures of +22 deg C or more are hybrids mix’ full flowers stable and strong flower stalks . The plants have vigorous needed. Keep the seeds moist but not waterlogged

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

growth and are winter hardy. They also tolerate warmer and humid climates very well. They make excellent cut flowers and flower in their first year from seed Dianthus chinensis This plant has very striking two tone burgundy flowers which appear Sow onto the surface of moist seed raising mix.in pots or Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Velvet ‘n Lace’ to be edged with white lace. It is a compact grower and produces trays. Cover very lightly with seed mix, as light aids flowers over spring and summer. germination. Keep moist but not wet and at approx 15-20 deg C. Germination takes 2-3 weeks Dianthus A very beautiful and old heirloom dianthus from France, which has As above Approx 30 $4.10 caryophyllus the sweet and spicy fragrance of clove. It has frilly, white to creamy ‘Chaubaud Benigna’ white petals with a rose coloured edging. The 5cm double blooms have a small percentage of singles borne above grass-like, gray or blue-green foliage. It blooms late January and February and is best grown as an annual for cut-flower production. Dianthus This is a scented, French garden vintage carnation which has a sweet As above Approx 30 $5.70 caryophyllus and spicy fragrance of clove. It has frilly, 5 cm double blooms with a ‘Chabaud Orange small percentage of singles. Orangy-cream petals are often striped Sherbet’ and flaked with tangerine. The foliage is grass like and gray or blue- green . It is best grown as an annual for cut-flower production and blooms in mid to late summer. Chabaud is an old-fashioned type dating back to as early as 1904. Dianthus chinensis This is a wildly exotic dianthus with amazing hanging fringed flowers, Sow seeds on the surface of moist well drained seed raising Approx 20 $5. var lacinatus like a ghost which has had a bad hair day. It is rarely offered for sale. mix. Sprinkle very finely with mix as light assists germination. Flowers are in shades of bright white, coral pink purple and red. It Keep at about 20 Deg C. Germination will occur in approx 10- makes an excellent pot plant which attracts much comment from 21 days admirers and it flowers in the first year from seed. It also makes a lovely, delicate cut flower. Dianthus deltoides, This dianthus is an easy care plant for hot sunny spots and will Sow onto the surface of moist seed raising mix.in pots or Approx 50 $4.10 'Brilliant' tolerate poorer soil. It flowers profusely looking rather like a cherry trays. Cover very lightly with seed mix, as light aids red carpet with its many small flowers. It forms a low slow-spreading germination. Keep moist but not wet and at approx 15-20 mat and can be trimmed back lightly after the first flush of spring deg C. germination takes 2-3 weeks. flowers to encourage further flowering intermittently during summer.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Dierama ‘Dwarf A pretty, airy perennial whose lovely white bell shaped flowers adds Sow at any time 5mm deep in a warm spot outside or in a Approx 20 $4.10 White Hybrid’ seeds architectural content to your garden with its weeping form. These propagator at between 15 and 20 degrees C. Germination seeds are open pollenated so may produce different forms and takes from one to three months. Grow on individual grass-like colours from the parent. seedlings in small pots. Keep frost-free and moist the first winter as dieramas are essentially evergreen plants, and must not be dried out, and should be kept growing when young. Plant out young plants the following spring.

Digitalis grandiflora - This is the largest and most spectacular flowered of the yellow For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 30 $4.10 (Yellow Foxglove) foxgloves. It is perennial and long lived. It has glossy green, veined based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to leaves, whose flowering stem can reach a height of 70–120 cm (28– approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any 47 in). The pale yellow bell-shaped flowers are spaced out on the time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 stem, 3–4 cm (1–2 in) long. The spikes of chocolate netted, large to 20 degrees C. However, most seeds can be sown in in an sulphur yellow flowers over rosettes of strongly veined leaves are unheated greenhouse to wait for natural germination as cosidered to be amongst the best of the yellow flowered foxgloves. It many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often is the holder of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are Royal Hortcultural Society. sown. Digitalis mertonensis This attractive plant is a hybrid between Digitalis purpurea and Sow seeds in pots or trays on the surface of moist seed raising Approx 50 $4.10 Digitalis grandiflora, which has been awarded the Royal Horticultural mix. Dont cover the seeds as they need light to germinate, award of garden merit. It has beautiful raspberry pink flowers which but keep them moist. Propagate at about 20 deg C. They are a mix between the pink flowers of digitalis purpurea and the germinate in approx 2-4 weeks. yellow flowers of digitalis grandiflora , and makes a lovely statement in the garden border.They are larger than the traditional foxglove flowers and appear in late spring and early summer. The plant itself is more compact than its parents, growing to about 1.2 m high. The plant likes dappled shade, and is an easy care plant. It makes a good cut flower. Digitalis purpurea This attractive plant has creamy white flowers, shaped like a bell As above Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Pam’s Choice’ with very unusual, deep burgundy red splotched throats. It is an outstanding cut flower, and looks outstanding in groups in the border. It is a biennial, which will self seed before it dies. Digitalis purpurea This is a lovely pure white foxglove . It has tall spires of flowers which Sow in spring, summer and autumn. Can be sown indoors or Approx. 50 $4.10 ‘Snow Thimble’ glow in the late evening and makes a very attractive garden subject outdoors. Sow onto moist seed raising mix. Do not cover as adding architectural form to the planting. light is needed for germination. Water from the bottom of pots to avoid disturbing the seed. Keep moist but not waterlogged. Cover with a glass tray or clear film to keep the moisture in. Germination takes 14-21 days at 15 – 18 deg C. Drosanthemum This plant is a small low growing, branching plant which has short Use a good quality seed raising mix which drains well. On top Approx. 20 $5.10 micans pointed fleshy leaves and forms a dense shrublet to about 60 cm. It of this place a layer of coarse river sand, and sow the seeds

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

has semi-double yellow flowers , which have a corona of red around on top of this. They should fall into the space between the the edges, and in spring the plant is usually smothered in these coarse grains and will eventually germinate. Plant in autumn, bright two toned flowers, making a great spectacle. and keep in a sunny location especially in the winter months. Keep at about 28 deg C and water sparingly as they don’t like to be too moist. Plant out when large enough to handle ( about 6-12 months)into larger pots with a potting mix which drains well. Echinacea purpurea A new coneflower introduced by Jelitto seeds, with extremely Sow in spring, summer and early autumn Approx. 20 $6.10 ‘Green Twister’ attractive lemon-green fringed, carmine-red flowers with black Sow in trays or pots . centres. It forms a sturdy plant and flowers in its first year from Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Cover seed. It is an abundant flowerer. thinly with soil. Ideal temp 20°C. Keep soil moist but not saturated. Germination occurs in 10 -20 days. Echinacea purpurea This is an improved form of ‘Magnus', which was the most popular As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Magnus Superior’ Purple Coneflower of all time. It has darker blooms and stems and is a more consistent growth. From a tall mound of coarse dark-green leaves, large daisy flowers with magenta-pink petals surrounding an orange-brown central cone appear in summer.They are attractive to butterflies. If you remove old and spent flowers regularly the plant will bloom for longer. The seedheads are attractive in winter with frost on them and the flowers are excellent, long-lasting cut flowers. Echinacea pallida This Echinacea has dramatically reflexed, very narrow white petals Sow in spring, summer and early autumn.Sow in trays or pots Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Hula dancer’ with a pink tinge. It is the only Echinacea species with white pollen. It .Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Cover has thin upright unbranching stems. It makes an excellent cut flower thinly with soil. Ideal temp 20°C. Keep soil moist but not and is drought resistant. Butterflies love it. If you plant it in the saturated. If germination does not occur in 3-4 weeks , place garden border it will always be admired for its architectural form. the pot in a plastic bag seal, and put into the fridge for 3-4 weeks. Echinops niveus This plant has large round spiky white flowers which stand out from The seed can be sown at any time. Sow seed onto moist seed Approx. 20 $5.60 ‘Artic Glow’ the strong reddish stems of the plant. It is a brilliant cut flower, and raising mix, cover the seed very lightly with soil, and keep creates a striking display n the garden. moist but not saturated. Ideal temp is 20-22 deg c. Germination will take place approx 14- 21 days. Echinops bannaticus This plant was developed especially for the cut flower market. As Sow at any time, in trays or pots . Approx. 20 $5.60 ‘Blue Glow’ well as having great cut flowers, it is also one of the most attractive Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Cover thistles in the garden. It lends an architectural quality to the flower thinly with soil. Ideal temp 20°C. Keep soil moist but not bed with its jagged, ball like flowers during mid to late summer. The saturated. Germination occurs in 14 to-21 days. plant has a mounded form with grey-green leaves which resemble those of a thistle. It has long stems of steel blue flowers which are like prickly blue chestnut seed cases. Echium fastuosum This echium grows to about 2m tall with flowers. It has pretty Sow seeds in spring and summer. Sow 3mm deep into moist Approx 20 $4.10 light blue to dark purple blue flowers which are very attractive well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 21°C. Germination to insects such as bees and butterflies.It is a large shrubby plant , takes 21-45 days. When large enough to handle transplant

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

with a nice mounding habit, which lives for many years. It will grow seedlings to 8cm pots and grow on. Shelter over the first with very little care and is quite hardy . It tolerates drought quite well winter in a cool greenhouse, conservatory or well lit and likes the soil to be well drained windowsill at about 7°C. Plant out the following spring with 90cm spacing. Echium pininiana This echium is a stately 4.5 metres high and the flowers are white. Sow seeds in spring and summer. Sow 3mm deep into moist Approx 20 $6.60 “Snow tower’ These seeds will throw mostly white flowered plants with the well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 21°C. Germination occasional other colour, which can be weeded out by purists, takes 21-45 days. When large enough to handle transplant keeping only the small plants with pale green stems and discarding seedlings to 8cm pots and grow on. Shelter over the first plants with coloured stems. winter in a cool greenhouse, conservatory or well lit windowsill at about 7°C. Plant out the following spring with 90cm spacing. Echium pininiana This is a very handsome plant , which bears huge towers of blue As above Approx 20 $6.60 flowers , which are beloved of bees and other flying insects. It is quite hardy, and can tolerate some cold but should be sheltered from frosts. It has been granted a Royal Horticultural Award of Merit Echium wildpretii This is the most sought after of all the echium species, and the most Sow seeds in spring onto a good soil-based compost at 12 to Approx 20 $4.10 dramatic. It is a very rare plant and produces very few seeds which 20C, seedlings appearing in between 2 and 6 weeks. Pot on must be collected by hand as they ripen . It is native to the volcanic into a gritty compost containing very little organic material slopes of the Canary Islands. The flower is borne on a tall dramatic before planting out in a well-drained, sheltered spot or a large spire of pink flowers to 1.2 metres high . They have stamens that are container that may be taken in during the winter. Plants longer than the flowers, which hold bright blue pollen, and the bees usually flower 24 months after sowing. love them. The leaves form a fuzzy grey green rosette of narrow leaves. They enjoy being kept on the dry side and are frost hardy.

These plants flower in their third year, and the flowering stem then dies away.

Erigeron speciosus This plant is a must have for the perennial flower garden. It is Sow spring, summer and early autumn, in trays or pots. Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘Pink Jewel’ extremely easy to maintain and will perform well for you once it is Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Cover established.It has bright pink flowers which are produced over a long thinly with soil. Ideal temp 20°C. Keep soil moist but not time during the summer. They are excellent cut flowers, but also saturated. Germination occurs in 10 -20 days. produce a great show during the summer in the garden. Their foliage is dark green and they form a bushy clump. If you remove the old flowers they will continue flowering for a long time. Erigeron speciosus This plant has very large 7 cm flowers which are lavender blue. The As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Grandiflorus’ clump forming plant grows to about 60 cm with flowers and is very showy. The flowers are made up of many petals , sometimes up to 150, and these surround a large golden eye. The flowers are borne on leafless stems

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Eryngium alpinum Eryngium alpinum superbum is a handsome plant for the garden and As above Approx. 30 $4.10 superbum makes a very good cut flower. It is thought to be one of the best of its kind on the market. It has attractive steel blue flowers on metallic blue stems , which form a nice bushy plant. The flowers mature a deeper blue as the summer moves into autumn, and they are even attractive in the winter when frosted with ice. The flowers can be dried for flower arrangements. It grows in well drained sandy soils and likes full sun. It can withstand severe frost, and so is suitable for those regions which can get quite cold in winter. Eryngium alpinum Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' is an excellent plant for the garden and The seeds need a period of warmth followed by a period of Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Blue Star’ makes a very good cut flower. It has attractive deep steel blue moist cold to germinate. flowers on sturdy stems, and was especially bred for the cut flower market. The flowers mature to a deeper blue as the summer moves Sow the seeds in seed raising mix, in either spring or summer. into autumn, and they are attractive in the winter when dusted with Cover with a fine layer of seed raising mix. Moisten the soil frost. The flowers can be dried for flower arrangements. It grows in and put the pot into a plastic bag together with a plant tag well drained sandy soils and likes full sun. It does not like hot humid with the day's date on it. Seal the bag. Keep the seeds at 18 - temperatures. It can withstand severe frost, and so is suitable for 22 deg C for 4 weeks. Then move the pot, still in the plastic those regions which can get quite cold in winter. bag, to the fridge door (4 deg C) for 6 weeks. Then move to 5- 12 degrees C for germination.

The seed germination can be irregular ( 5-90 days). As each seed germinates, transplant it into its own pot, as they don't like to be moved when older. When large enough plant out. Eryngium giganteum This plant is spectacular, with unusual metallic silvery grey leaves, Sow Spring and early Summer Approx. 20 $4.10 ‘Miss Wilmott’s stems and flowers. It has a green cone in the centre of the flower. It Ghost’ shines in the garden, and reaches its peak in late summer, when all Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover else is becoming untidy and faded. The flowers are excellent for with vermiculite. Propagate 18-22°C. for 2-4 weeks. Do not cutting, fresh or dried. It has its name from the tale that English exclude light. Germination can be slow. Seal seed container in plantswoman Ellen Willmott used to secretly scatter seeds of this a polythene bag and leave for 2 further weeks, then cold plant while visiting other peoples' gardens, since she liked the plant stratify. Move to a fridge 4°C for 3-6 weeks. After this return so much. In summer it produces large heads of lovely lime-green to warmth but no more than 18°C. If germination does not flowers with blue stamens backed by large and conspicuous bracts, occur within 6-10 weeks return to fridge for further 3-6 the whole later developing a shining silvery hue. The "giganteum" weeks. Examine regularly whilst in fridge and immediately refers to the flower heads which are large, and not to the plant remove any seeds which show signs of germination. Move to which usually grows to approx 90 cm high. Prefers full sun in a light 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has well-drained soil. Will tolerate very light shade. Plant into final passed. position while the plant is young. The roots are often several feet long and do not like to be disturbed. Flower stems may be cut back after flowering but the seedheads are attractive and could be left over winter. Cut flowers before fully open if you wish to dry them.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Divide in early spring or autumn, be gentle, the plant does not like root disturbance. It will need to be protected from winter wetness, and is drought tolerant once established. Will self-seed. Eryngium giganteum This plant is spectacular, with eye catching metallic silvery blue Sow Spring and early Summer Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Silver Ghost’ leaves, stems and flowers. Its flowers are larger than E. 'Miss Wilmot's Ghost', and more silvery. It has a luminosity in the garden, Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover and reaches its peak in late summer, when all else is becoming a bit with vermiculite. Propagate 18-22°C. for 2-4 weeks. Do not faded and boring. exclude light. Germination can be slow. Seal seed container in a polythene bag and leave for 2 further weeks, then cold It is especially beautiful at night, in the light of the full moon. It was stratify. Move to a fridge 4°C for 3-6 weeks. After this return originally discovered in Turkish beech/pine forest. It has metallic to warmth but no more than 18°C. If germination does not silvery-blue leaves, and in summer it produces large heads of lovely occur within 6-10 weeks return to fridge for further 3-6 lime-green flowers with blue stamens backed by large and weeks. Examine regularly whilst in fridge and immediately conspicuous bracts, the whole later developing a shining silvery hue. remove any seeds which show signs of germination. Move to The "giganteum" refers to the flower heads which are large, and not 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has to the plant which usually grows to approx 1.2 m high. Prefers full passed. sun in a light well-drained soil. Will tolerate very light shade. Plant into final position while the plant is young. The roots are often several feet long and do not like to be disturbed. Flower stems may be cut back after flowering but the seedheads are attractive and could be left over winter. Cut flowers before fully open if you wish to dry them. Divide in early spring or autumn, be gentle, the plant does not like root disturbance. Protect from winter wetness. Will self- seed. Eryngium Giganteum 'Silver Ghost' has won the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Eryngium planum This plant is a clump-forming perennial which produces flowers in Sow the seeds in pots or trays in good seed raising mix. Cover Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Blue Cap’ summer. They are steel-blue in colour, and appear a little like thistles the seeds very thinly and keep moist at about 20 deg C. The on branched stems rising from a tight crown of dark green basal seeds should germinate quite quickly. Keep in cooler leaves. The flowers are excellent for picking, and the plant is a conditions after germination occurs. valuable summer garden filler, adding texture to the border. Eryngium planum This plant has large clusters of steel-blue flowers, which are Sow spring and autumn in trays or pots .Surface sow onto Approx 20 $7.60 ‘Blue Glitter’ somewhat prickly. moist well-drained seed raising mix. Just cover with mix. It flowers in the first year from seed, which makes it a valuable plant Propagate 18-22°C. for 2-4 weeks. Do not exclude light. for the border or for cutting. It is excellent both as a cut flower and Germination can be slow. If there is no germination in 3- fresh or dried. It can be divided quite easily in early spring. It is also 4weeks, then cold stratify. Move to a fridge 4°C for 3-6 weeks. quite adaptable being able to tolerate hot, dry places, and salty soils . After this return to warmth but no more than 18°C. If It is attractive to butterflies. germination does not occur within 6-10 weeks return to It won the Fleuroselect Gold Medal in 2007 as a plant of excellent fridge for further 3-6 weeks. Examine regularly whilst in fridge merit and was the cutflower of the year in 2009 in America. and immediately remove any seeds which show signs of

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

germination. Move to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Erysimum cheiri This wallflower has deep red velvety flowers which are very scented. Sow the seeds in spring and autumn on good quality seed Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Blood Red Covent It is a variety which has stood the test of time well blooming in raising mix in pots or trays, or they can also be sown direct garden’ english cotte=age gardens for many years. It makes an excellent cut where they are to grow. Cover the seeds lightly with mix, and flower and will make a great show for you through the spring and keep moist but not wet. Ideal temperature is 20 deg C. Seeds summer, with its lusciously scented flowers. These plants grow a should germinate in about 7-10 days . Transplant to 8cm pots good size ( approx 40 cm) and will benefit from being supported in when large enough to handle, and plant out after all danger some form . A tip is to spread a small piece of wide plastic netting of frost has gone. supported on poles ,over them while small and allow them to grow through this. Erysimum cheiri ‘Fire This is a wonderfully scented old variety with beautiful glowing As above As above $4.10 King’ amber-scarlet velvet flowers. It is a great no care plant for the garden which will give you flowers for many weeks in spring and summer, and makes a lovley cut flower for the house. It is best treated as a biennal though technically classed as a perennial. These plants grow a good size ( approx 40 cm) Erysimum cheiri This is a deliciously fragrant, rich , bright pink wallflower As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Giant Pink’ Erysimum ‘Ruby This is an old tried and true variety which has produced its velvety As above Approx 30 $4.10 Gem’ ruby red deliciously scented blooms in spring for countless english gardeners over many years. It is a no fuss plant which performs welll especially in cooler areas. It is best treated as a biennial, though technically a perennial. It makes a lovely cut flower Erysimum cheiri This is a deliciously fragrant, richly coloured wallflower collection in As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Velvet Wine deep wine, toffee apple orange caramel and ruby burgundy. A Collection’ mixture which includes E. Fire King, Ruby Gem, and Blood Red Covent Garden. Erysimum This wallflower produces fragrant golden yellow flowers on a sturdy, Sow late summer for spring flowering or late winter for Approx 20 $4.10 perofskianum, 'Gold bushy plant which is robust and performs well. Flowers are borne autumn flowering. Best sown under glass June-September. Shot' – (Wallflower) from early spring continuously to autumn. The plant is heat tolerant, Surface sow into moist well-drained seed compost. Cover and the flower attracts butterflies. with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. Keep moist but not wet. Ideal temp. 20°C. Germination takes 10-14 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed. Can be sown directly in October-December where they are to flower. Thin to 50cm spacing in April.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Euphorbia griffithii This euphorbia combines foliage which is handsome with attractive Sow in autumn, winter and early spring Approx 20 $4.10 orange-red bracts. It has many upright reddish stems and narrow Sow the seeds in seed trays or pots in good seed raising mix. dark green leaves with red central veins, which turn red and yellow Keep warm and moist at 18-22 deg C for the first 2-4 weeks. in autumn. It is a vigorous plant. Contact with the milky sap of the After this move to -4 to +4 deg C for 4-6 weeks. Then move leaves should be avoided by wearing gardening gloves as it can to 5-12 deg C for germination. irritate the skin. Euphorbia marginata This euphorbia is used as a filler for bouquets and flower Euphorbia resents root disturbance so it is best to sow either Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘Mountain Snow’ arrangements . It has white bracts which appear on the tips of the direct or in cell pots for ease of later transplant stems, which are strong and excellent for the vase. They are set off Sow seeds in early spring . by the green foliage.The foliage begins to variegate when the days Direct : after the last frost begin to shorten. It performs well in dry, poorish soils and in the heat In pots inside: 4-6 weeks before the last frost. of summer. It serves as a dramatic foil to the other summer flowers. Sow in cell pots or direct outside The plant grow well in full sun,to partial shade, with a well-drained Sow in good seed raising mix. Cover lightly with soil. Keep soil mix. The plants should be well watered and be allowed to dry warm and moist at 18-24 deg C . Germination will take 10-14 before watering again. The plant grows in poor soils in its natural days but can be erratic, and sometimes it can take up to a habitat and does not need fertiliser or excessive water. Too much of month. either will provide lush growth but at the expense of flowers. Cut back flowering shoots to ground level in late summer or autumn. Contact with the milky sap of the leaves should be avoided by wearing gardening gloves and long sleeves as it can irritate the skin. Euphorbia stricta This plant has red stems and bright green leaves. The flowers are Sow at any time of the year in seed raising mix. Cover to their Approx 20 $5.60 ‘Golden Foam’ golden yellow and the whole plant in flower resembles a golden own depth with mix. Propagate at 15- 20 degrees C. Keep flowered gypsophila plant. moist but not waterlogged. Germination can be slow and It is great as a cut flower and also looks good in the garden erratic, taking from 2 weeks to several months. If germination The plant reportedly will self seed . Note that all parts of all does not occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C for 3 months then Euphorbia species plants are toxic if ingested. Take care when return to the warmth. handling the plants also as the sap can cause skin rashes. Fritillaria This beautiful plant has waxy bell shaped flowers which hang from Place the seed on the top of a pot which has been filled with Approx. 30 $6.10 acmopetala delicate 30-4 cm stems. The flowers are a yellowish green which are moistened seed raising mix. Do not cover the seed. Fritillaria striped with dark maroon. The plant has greyish green leaves . It likes seed requires a period of cold (but not freezing) to initiate a sunny to partially shaded position with free draining moist humus germination, so the pots can be left outdoors through the rich soil during its growth period and a hot and dry free draining winter, in areas which have frosts/snow, until they germinate position in the sun during summer when it is dormant . It can which is usually in the Spring. If you live in a region with mild tolerate temperatures to -18 deg C. Fritillaria acmopetala has been winters, you will need to provide the cold period artificially awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be by placing the pots in a plastic bag , seal the plastic bag and reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. place in the fridge door at about 4 degrees centigrade for 2 months. Seeds can sometimes germinate irregularly over a long period, so don’t get impatient if they don’t sprout immediately, and throw the seeds out prematurely. After the 2 months place outside in a cool light spot.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Fritillaria persica This plant has beautiful ruby purple flowers in racemes of up to 30 As above Approx. 20 $7.10 flowers on stems which can be up to 1 m tall. The plant has greyish green leaves . It likes a sunny dry situation which is partially shaded in the afternoon in hot summer areas, with free draining medium moisture humus rich soil . Well drained soils are particularly important. As it is from Turkey Syria and Iran it can tolerate cold temperatures in winter. Gaillardia aristata This plant won the prestigious 'All America Selections ' award in Can be sown at any time, but best sown 4-6 weeks before the Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Arizona Sun’ 2005. It had the characteristics that the judges were looking for: It is last frost. Sow indoors in seed trays or pots. Sow onto a moist a tidy compact plant which is also very hardy, it blooms continuously well-drained seed compost. Cover very thinly as the seeds and profusely smothering itself in red and yellow fringed flowers need light to germinate. Propagate with gentle heat at 18 -23 from early spring to late autumn, it tolerates drought, and it flowers deg C. Germination takes 2-3 weeks. Transplant seedlings every year with very little care. What more would you want in a once large enough to small pots and grow on . When large plant? enough transplant to the garden after acclimatizing them , at 35-40 cm apart. Gaillardia aristata This compact plant has dark red flowers. It will bloom all summer for As above Approx. 20 $4.60 ‘Arizona Red Shades’ you and will perform better if you take the time to deadhead it. It is one of the few red coloured gaillardias available. It tolerates drought well and is a hardy plant which requires very little care. It is attractive to butterflies and bees. It will bloom the first year from seed. Gaillardia aristata This compact plant has apricot shading to orange flowers. It will As above Approx. 20 $4.60 ‘Arizona Apricot’ bloom all summer for you and will perform better if you take the time to deadhead it. It is one of the few apricot coloured gaillardias available. It tolerates drought well and is a hardy plant which requires very little care. It is attractive to butterflies and bees. It will bloom the first year from seed. Gaillardia aristata The Mesa series is more compact and flowers with more As above Approx 20 $4.60 ‘Mesa Peach’ predictability than other gaillardias grown from seed. It is the first F1 hybrid gaillardia to be produced from seed. Gaillardia 'Mesa Peach' is a tidy, sturdy, compact plant which is also very hardy, it blooms continuously and profusely smothering itself in stunning 8cm peach toned flowers which have yellow tips. It flowers from spring to late autumn. It tolerates drought well, and it flowers every year with very little care. Gaillardia aristata As above but red As above Approx 20 $4.60 ‘Mesa Red Gazania rigens ‘New This variety has larger flowers than older varieties , and the plant is Sow seeds in pots or trays in moist seed raising mix. Cover the Approx 20 $4.10 Day Red Stripe’ more compact. It blooms prolifically throughout the summer, and seeds lightly with seed raising mix, and propagate at approx makes a dazzling display with its large yellow and red striped flowers. 20 deg C. Keep the medium moist, but not saturated. This annual is an easily cared for plant for sunny sites. Seedlings should appear in approx 14 days.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Gazania rigens ‘New As above but has rose striped flowers on a white background As above Approx 20 $4.10 Day Rose Stripe’ Geranium This new very beautiful , short lived Geranium has a lovely violet blue Sow the seeds 2.5cm apart, on the surface of seed raising mix Approx 20 $5.10 bohemicum ‘Orchid flower which is veined with a darker blue. It is a very attractive plant and cover seed lightly with mix . Keep soil slightly moist but Blue’ which forms small mounds of green foliage, and can be used as a not wet. ground cover to contribute to suppressing border garden weeds . It This geranium should germinate in 30 to 60 days at flowers the first year from seed if sown early , resists diseases well, temperatures around 5 to 10°C. and does not need any special care. Geranium pratense This geranium is considered to be one of the prettiest hardy Sow in trays or pots . Keep moist at about +18 to +22°C for Approx 10 $5.10 ‘Mrs Kendall Clark’ geraniums. It bears 4 cm wide lavender blue flowers which have a the first 2–4 weeks. After this period keep moist and at a cold delicate white veining, in late spring and early summer. It is a temperature between –4 and +4°C (fridge door) for another vigorous grower forming clumps of dark green leaves approx 60cm 4–6 weeks. wide and 90 cm high , is easy to grow, and requires little care. It will After this cooling period keep between +5 to +12°C, even if grow in full sun or part shade, and once established can tolerate germination has started. some drought. It is used in beds and borders and can also be used as a ground cover. Geranium pratense 'Mrs Kendall Clark' won the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. Geranium pratense This very attractive geranium has white petals which are often Sow seeds in moist seed raising mix and cover lightly. keep at Approx. 10 $4.10 ‘Striatum’ (Splish striped, flecked or splashed with lavender-blue making it seem like approx 18-20 degrees for the first 2-4 weeks. After this period Splash) an artist’s flower which has been freshly painted. It is a small clump keep the seeds at between -4- +4 deg C ( fridge works well) forming geranium which is much more compact than other hardy for 4-6 weeks.Then bring the seeds out and propagate at 5-12 geraniums and makes a lovely garden border plant. It is a hardy easy deg C. care plant which will withstand quite severe frosts

Geranium Geranium pyrenaicum, 'Bill Wallis' flowers profusely from October to Sow in spring, summer and autumn . Surface sow 2cm apart Approx 20 $5.10 pyrenaicum ‘Bill February with very deep violet purple flowers. It is considered to be onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover with a fine Wallis’ the best cultivar of this type and is very easy to grow. Its flowers are layer of soil mixed with coarse grit. Keep the soil moist not attractive to both bees and butterflies. It has a mounding habit that wet. Germination takes 30-90 days. Prick out seedlings forms an attractive evergreen clump and looks good all year round. carefully as soon as they has 2 true leaves and move to 8cm Its leaves are lobed and more rounded than most Geranium species. pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of It is reliably perennial, and is ideal for a hot spot in the garden, where frost has passed. If you have seeds which have not emerged it is a dainty and attractive addition to the border, whilst being quite by autumn leave the seed tray outside where winter cold tough and hardy. It is also slug resistant. should offer the natural conditions required for germination the following spring

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Geranium This is one of the small bushy mound forming types of geranium. It Seeds can be sown at any time. Sow in trays or pots in good Approx. 20 $6.60 sanguineum var grows as a mound of fine-textured green foliage. In spring and seed raising mix. Cover seeds thinly. Keep at 20- 22 degrees C. striatum ‘Vision summer it produces a mass of soft-pink flowers, which have deep Keep moist but not waterlogged. Seeds will germinate in 3-4 Pink’ pink veins. This geranium will withstand variations in climatic weeks. Keep in cooler conditions after they have germinated. conditions, and for those of us who have humid conditions, it will cope well. It will create a nice bushy clump and serve as a good groundcover. Its leaves often turn a nice bronzy-red in the autumn.

Gerbera jamesonii These flowers are amongst the most spectacular of cut flowers. Sow at any time of the year indoors. Sow onto seed trays Approx 20 $5.60 ‘Giant Hybrids There is a wide range of vibrant colour in this mix from reds and on a well-drained, sandy compost. Sow indoors as soon as Mixed’ pinks through pastel shades of coral, apricot and primrose to cream you receive them . Surface sow. Press the seeds gently into . The flowers are long-lasting . Each flower is 12 cm approx across. the soil until only the feather-head (the softest end) of the The plant grows to approx 30 cm, and flowers continuously all seed is showing . A sunny window sill or glasshouse is ideal. summer. It prefers light position and coolish temperatures with Ideal temp. 20-25°C. Germination takes 2-3 weeks approx. temperatures no greater than 20 degrees. It likes well drained soil Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm which does not stay damp, but does not like to become bone dry. In pots and grow on. They like a cool, light , well ventilated spot. warmer areas of New Zealand it can be grown outside and will come back for you each year. Geum coccineum This strain is a compact form of Geum coccineum which grows to Sow indoors in late winter and spring in pots or trays. Sow into moist Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Borisii Strain’ about 30 cm high with flowers. It is a very free flowering plant well-drained seed raising mix. Just cover the seed with seed mix. Keep producing bright rich, single orange flowers all spring and summer at 18– 23 degrees C. Germination should occur in about 3-4 weeks. and well into autumn. It will even produce some flowers in winter When the seedling has 2 true leaves, transplant into 7.5cm pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10 to 15 days intermittently. The flowers are mostly upward facing which is a before planting out. Plant approx. 4cm apart. bonus in a smallish plant. It can tolerate frost pretty well and is tolerant of dry conditions. It likes full sun or partial shade and grows best in a humous rich soil which is free draining. It is a good strong and hardy plant which doesn't take much care. It will flower each year for you with the minimum of attention. Gladiolus illyricus This beautiful gladiolus has short stems which bear showy, large, Sow at any time. Sow in trays or pots Approx. 30 $4.10 dark lilac or magenta flowers, with white streaks on the lower petals. Cover seeds with compost or grit 5mm deep. Keep at 18-22ºC It will grow easily in any rich, well-drained soil in full sun. it can also for 2-4 wks, then move to -4 to +4ºC (fridge door) for 4-6 wks, be grown in pots. This hardy dwarf species, which is native to South then move to 5-12ºC for germination and west Europe and the Mediterranean region, grows in the wild in rocky, sun-exposed sites and heaths, in scrub and open woods. It flowers in spring to early summer.

Gladiolus This is probably the most hardy of all gladioli and is native to South Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit Approx 30 $4.10 imbricatus- (Turkish eastern Europe and Turkey. It has been claimed to survive to minus 5mm deep, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot Marsh Gladiolus) 4 degrees C. It is also one of the rarest of all gladioli. It grows in wet outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent meadows and marshes and flowers in summer. It has a dense spike germination so be very patient as many species will only of 4 to 12 large rich coloured flowers, usually in shades of deep germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

purple to carmine, attractively marked on the lower petals. Its lowest seed tray in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small leaf is round or blunt, not sharp which is a distinguishing pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into characteristic. This is certainly the best and most valuable of the the open ground. Mediterranean species. Gomphrena globosa This annual plant is prized for its lovely salmon pink white flowers Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Soaking the Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘QIS Salmon’ which have showy papery bracts, and which last very well. The seeds in water for a day or two before planting appears flowers are borne on stiff upright stems from summer right through to speed germination. Scatter seed on top of the soil and to the frost. In addition, it is easy-to-grow in the sun-baked garden. then cover very finely (Gomphrena need light to germinate, This plant is amazingly resistant to both heat and drought, and its but germination appears to be better when the seeds are very blooms and fresh foliage keep on looking neat and colorful through lightly covered.) Optimum temperature 30 deg C daytime the worst heat of summer. Gomphrena grows about 60cm tall and and 21 deg C night time (Gomphrena germinates better if about a foot wide with stiff, erect branched stems. The opposite exposed to some temperature fluctuations). Keep seeds leaves are long and slender. They begin life as white and woolly moist while germinating. Covering with plastic or glass will looking when young, but lose this characteristic as they mature. The keep the moisture constant. Plant outside (after hardening hairy foliage collects dirt quite easily, so it is best to mulch around off) about 20 cm apart after all danger of frost has passed. the plants for a clean look. Its open branches intermingle nicely with Pinch out the first flowers to encourage a bushier plant with other garden informal flowers. It likes full sun and moist soil but can more flowers or let them grow for a more open look. Keep tolerate some shade once it is established. regularly cut to encourage more blooms. Gomphrena globosa As above but pure white As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘QIS White’ Gomphrena This is considered by many to be the best gomphrena for cut flowers. Sow 6-8 weeks indoors before planting , or direct where they Approx. 30 $4.10 haageana ‘QIS It has 4cm flowers on long strong stems , performs well no matter are to grow after the last frost. Sow the seeds into moist seed Orange’ what the weather brings. It doesn’t mind heat, humidity or drought. compost in pots or trays or direct. Soak the seeds for a few hours in hot water before sowing. Cover lightly with seed raising mix. They need darkness to germinate. Keep at 18 - 22 degrees C. The seeds will germinate in 14 -21 days

Gomphrena This plant has glowing neon-lit rosy purple flowers and has all the As above Approx. 30 $4.10 haageana ‘QIS attributes of the above plant Carmine’ Goniolimon This plant produces an eye-catching display when in full flower. It Sow in Spring, or in Autumn. Approx 20 $5.10 tarataricum produces masses of white frilly flowers all summer long, which Sow the seeds onto the surface of moist well drained seed (formerly limonium appear to be made of paper, they are so delicate. Limonium raising mix and just cover with a sprinkling of soil. tartaricum) Tartaricum blooms are extremely good as cut flowers, lasting for Place the pots in a darkened area or cover the pots with over 2 weeks as fresh cut flowers, and they are also used as dried paper as the seeds prefer the dark to germinate. Seeds will flowers because they hold their colour well especially in winter germinate in 14 to 21 days at 18 to 21°C. Once germinated, flower arrangements. The plant forms a low mound with broad green bring them into an area with diffused light. leaves which are a good textural ground cover. The flower stalks Seedlings can be transplanted to individual 7cm pots after 4 appear from the foliage in summer, carrying light gossamer, to 5 weeks to grow on, at 15°C or can be transplant directly

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

branched panicles that grow 45cm tall. The panicles produce into their final growing position when they are 6 to 8cm high. delicate, miniature tubular silvery-white sprays of flowers with little Plant outdoors only after all danger of frost has gone. Plant 30 rose-pink inner petals in mid-summer. This plant is easy to grow from to 4cm apart. Provide full sun and well-drained soil of seed, is long lived and is very productive each year. It grows best in a moderate fertility. well-drained site in full sun. Gypsophila This pretty plant produces clouds of dainty double white flowers in Sow in late winter to spring and autumn to early winter. Sow in trays Approx 50 $4.10 paniculata fl pl summer and autumn, in masses above a neat compact plant with or pots. Sow onto moist seed raising mix . Cover very finely with soil 'Snowflake' blue green foliage. The flower branches reach 90 cm tall. It is used and keep moist but not wet. Propagate at 20 deg C. Keep in cooler extensively in wedding bouquets and makes a great cut flower. It temperatures once they are germinated prefers moist well drained soil until established and then is drought tolerant. Trim back after blooming to promote vigorous new foliage. Cut back in the autumn for strong spring growth. it is an easy care plant which is hardy to grow. Heleborus orientalis This is Jelitto Seeds special blend of its newest hybrids. the flowers Sow seeds in a seed raising mix , cover with a fine layer of Approx 20 $7.10 ‘New Hybrids’ are single or semi double. There is a mixture of yellow, white, pink, seed mix and propagate at about +22°C with constant red, and there are also some spotted and striped ones included in humidity for at least 6 weeks. Then keep cold (–4.10 to this mix. These plants flower in the spring and like a rich moist well +4.10°C)( fridge works well) for 6–8 weeks. Usually, the drained soil in part shade to full shade. They will tolerate quite germination starts at +4.10°C . Raise temperatures gradually severe frost. up to +10°C [50°F] until germination is completed. If the warm or cold period was not long enough the seeds will not germinate until the following year. They will then need another warm period (summer) and a cold period (winter). Helenium autumnale This plant is a bright easy care perennial, which brings its bright Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Helena Red Shades’ flowers in the late summer when almost everything else in the with a fine sprinkling of soil. Propagate 18-20°C. Do not garden has long finished, and is becoming tatty as it winds down for exclude light. Germination takes 14-21 days but can be the autumn. Helenium "Helena Red Shades" flowers in the first year erratic. If germination does not occur cold stratify. Move to - from seed. On well-branched, upright stems it produces many small 4-+4°C for 2-4.10 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant round flowers in a rich spectrum of red, copper and brown shades. It seedlings once large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow is a very good performer in your garden and makes a great cut on in cooler conditions 12-15°C. Acclimatise and plantout flower. once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Autumn sowings can be overwintered in a cold frame and planted out the following spring. Helenium autumnale As above but with bright gold flowers on a sturdy strong- branching As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Helena Gold’ plant. Helenium autumnale This is one of the garden plants which is in everyones "indispensible" Sow spring and autumn.Surface sow onto moist well-drained Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Red and gold list. It provides a much needed splash of colour when many of the seed compost. Just cover with a fine sprinkling of soil. Hybrids’- flowering plants have finished their display for the year. It is very Propagate 18-20°C. Do not exclude light. Germination takes (Sneezeweed) tolerant of most soil types, and is easy to grow. It makes a very good 14-21 days but can be erratic. If germination does not occur cut flower. There is also a rich colour range in this mix including cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 2-4 weeks then return to shades of crimson, bronze, yellow and brown. warmth. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions 12-15°C. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Autumn sowings can be overwintered in a cold frame and planted out the following spring. Helenium hoopsii - This plant has large (up to 8cm) rich yellow or orange, daisy-like Sow spring and early summer and in autumn. Surface sow Approx. 30 $4.10 (Sneezeweed) blooms with a large central disc. It flowers from February to March indoors onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover on a tall, stately plant. It is best placed in the back of a sunny, moist with a fine sprinkling of soil. Propagate at 18-20°C. Do not but well-drained border, and is considered to be the most valuable exclude light, as light is required for germination. Germination species in the family. Heleniums are versatile plants that love plenty takes 14-21 days but can be erratic. If germination does not of sunshine and moist soil. They rarely suffer from pests or diseases. occur place in the fridge ( vege compartment is ideal)at -4- +4°C for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions 12-15°C. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Autumn sowings can be overwintered in a cold frame and planted out the following spring. Heliopsis Burning Hearts has dark purple stems and leaves and an abundance Sow indoors at any time, ideally in spring 6-8 weeks prior to Approx. 20 $5.10 helianthoides ver of giant daisy-like golden flowers with red centres. It blooms from last expected frost, in trays or pots. Sow 2mm deep into scabra ‘Burning mid summer to autumn and because of its purple coloured foliage it moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp 20°C. Hearts’ can be used as an ornamental foliage plant as well. It makes a good Germination takes 10-15 days approx. If germination does not cut flower. occur in 3-4 weeks cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C (fridge) for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth for germination. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed. Heliotropium This annual plant is an improved version of the old fashioned Cherry Sow indoors at any time, ideally in spring 6-8 weeks prior to Approx 40 $4.10 arborescens Pie which used to grow in our grandmother’s and great last expected frost. Sow 2mm deep into moist, well-drained ‘Marine’ grandmother’s gardens. It produces large clouds of small deep seed compost. Cover lightly with mix. Ideal temp 20°C. purple-blue flowers which have a sweet scent somewhat like cherry Germination takes 14-21 days approx.. Transplant seedlings pie and hence its common name. when large enough to handle. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed. Helichrysum This annual plant has papery, shiny white daisy-like flowers. It Sow indoors June-September. Surface sow onto moist well- Approx. 40 $4.10 brachteatum ‘White has tall, strong stems and dark foliage against which the pure white drained seed raising mix. Cover with a sprinkling of soil only Strawflower’ flowers make an outstanding foil . It makes excellent cut flowers, as light is needed for germination. Ideal temp. 22-24°C. and is also extremely good for drying, retaining its shape and Germination takes 7-15 days. Once seedlings are large whiteness. enough to handle transplant to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 30cm spacing. Helichrysum These deep red , shiny papery flowers are extremely easy to As above Approx. 40 $4.10 bracteatum ‘Scarlet’ cultivate. They are tall, and with their strong stems and dark foliage they make

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

extremely good cut and dried flowers. They last a very long time and keep their colour for a long time when dried. Helichrysum This plant has downy silvery grey foliage and produces large clusters Sow indoors in June - September. Surface sow ind 40oors Approx 20 $4.10 thianshanicum, of bright yellow flowers which are everlasting. Each of the flowers is onto moist well-drained seed compost. Cover with a very 'Golden Baby' - shaped like a yellow pom pom. It is loved for its great everlasting cut small sprinkling of soil only as light is needed for germination. (Strawflower) flowers which brighten up the indoors in the winter. It will grow in Ideal temp. 22-24°C. Germination takes 7-15 days. Once poor, moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun. Protect from seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to 8cm pots winter wet and cold dry winds. and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 30cm spacing. Helipterum roseum This is a lovely annual flower for cutting, drying, or just as a splash of Sow paper daisy seeds in seed trays or pots Sow indoors 6 Approx 30 $3.00 ‘Goliath Tetra Red’ – colour in the garden. It has very large, double blood red flowers with weeks before the end of frost season., Press into soil. Don’t (Paper Daisy, a prominent back central eye. Its stems are extra strong rising to cover as light is needed for germination. Keep moist. Ideal Everlasting Daisy) approx 55 cm . temperature 18-23 deg C. Germination occurs in 14-21 days. Transplant to the garden when large enough. You can also direct sow the seed into prepared seed beds after all danger of frost. Thin to 8 in. apart. Helipterum roseum This pretty annual plant has pure white flowers which are like paper, As above Approx 30 $3.00 ‘Pierrot’ – (Paper and they have an eye-catching centre which has concentric rings of Daisy, Everlasting black and bright yellow. They grow to 50 cm, and are excellent for Daisy) cutting and drying. Helipterum roseum This annual plant has large flowers in shades of rose to red , which As above Approx 30 $3.00 ‘Large Flowered are like paper. They grow to 50 cm, and are excellent for cutting and Hybrids’ – (Paper drying. Daisy, Everlasting Daisy) Helleborus orientalis This is a mix of the newest helleborus hybrids from the Sow seeds in a seed raising mix at about +22°C with constant Approx 20 $7.00 “Newest Hybrids’ comprehensive Jeitto Seeds stock. humidity for at least 6 weeks. Then keep cold (–4 to +4°C)( fridge works well) for 6–8 weeks. Usually, the germination starts at +4°C . Raise temperatures gradually up to +10°C [50°F] until germination is completed. If the warm or cold period was not long enough the seeds will not germinate until the following year. They will then need another warm period (summer) and a cold period (winter). Heuchera americana This heuchera has wonderfully mottled and marbled foliage Sow either in late summer to autumn or late winter to late Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Marvellous spring foliage with purple veining and a silvery bush . Flower stems spring at 18 to 22°C . Sow on the surface of pots or trays Marbles’ are held above the leaves producing flowers in tones of creamy containing a good seed compost mix. Cover very lightly with a white. They flower in November and December. These Heuchera sprinkling of mix. Water from the base of the tray to moisten make excellent border plants with their nearly evergreen foliage in the compost and then drain. neat clumps. They are versatile perennials which can be used in a Germination can be a little erratic, and can be as quick as 10 pot or as a groundcover under deciduous trees. Prefers average to days, but may be up to 60 days. Keep the compost moist but

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

moist soil conditions in patial shade. not wet at all times. If germination does not occur after 60 days place the pot in a plastic bag and put into the fridge for 4 weeks. Prick out each seedling once it has its first set of “true” leaves, transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow them on in frost free conditions until large enough to plant outside. Heuchera micrantha This is the first ruffled-edge strain to be offered from seed.It has dark As above Approx 20 $4.10 x hybrida ‘Melting red leaves which turn bright scarlet in the autumn and forms a low Fire’ mound of ruffled bronzy-brown leaves, the new leaves tinted red when they first appear. Taller stems produce sprays of small white flowers in late spring. It is a good candidate for edging in sun to part shade. It is an evergreen, just remove any damaged leaves in spring.If you have hot and humid summers, you may need to plant it in the shade as very hot sun will damage the leaves. Inula orientalis - Inula Orientalis has attractive dark green buds from which spring Sow indoors at any time, sow under glass in spring or autumn. Approx 20 $4.10 (Caucasian inula) shaggy deep bright orange -yellow flowers It flowers throughout Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just summer. It makes a great background filler for borders and you only cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Keep moist but not wet. need one to bush out and provide the needed background because it Ideal temp. 20°C. Germination takes 14-42 days. Transplant grows to about 75 cm and to a reasonably sized bush. It also makes a seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and good cut flower. It tolerates full sun or partial shade in well-drained grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after soil. They are attractive to bees and other beneficial insects. danger of frost has passed. Can be sown directly into prepared soil. Thin seedlings as required. Iris sibirica ‘New This selection contains a wide range of colours ranging from light to Nick each seed pod carefully with a sharp implement ( nail Approx 40 $4.10 Hybrids’ dark-blue, purple, pink and white to cream. The seeds are taken from scissors work quite well) and soak for 24 hours in water. This the top new iris sibirica cultivars will help quicker swelling of the seed ready for germination. These plants require very low maintenance, they will grow in normal Sow seeds in pots or trays in moist seed raising mix. Cover garden soil and will reward with their beautiful clear flowers year seeds lightly with mix. after year. Seeds should be kept warm and moist for 4 weeks at approx 20 deg C. After this period place the seed pot in a plastic bag and seal it. Place the pot in the fridge for 6 weeks. Following the time in the fridge, bring the pot out of the fridge and propagate at 5-12 deg C. Jasione perennis, This is a rare and unusual perennial which is native to southern Sow directly spring-autumn. Surface sow onto prepared soil Approx. 40 $4.10 'Blue Light' -(Sheep’s Europe. It produces many 4cm sky blue flower heads rather like pom which has been raked to a fine tilth. Just cover seed with a Bit Scabious) poms on tall stems all summer long. It is easy to grow and makes a sprinkling of soil or gently rake in. Ideal temp. 18-20°C. Keep very good cut flower. The foliage is low growing and a grey -green. moist. Germination takes 10-21 days approx. Thin seedlings as They look good in the rock garden or front of the border. They grow required. Can be started under glass if preferred and best in nitrogen rich soils that are sandy and well drained in full sun transplanted out after danger of frost has passed. to light shade. They work well in a container too.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Knautia macedonica This plant has a very long flowering season. Abundant flower heads Indoors sow : Spring and early summer. Outdoors: Autumn. Approx. 20 $5.10 ’Watercolours’ – in purple, mauve, red and pink hues appear on its high stems from Sow directly or under glass. It is easiest to sow directly in (Pincushion Flower) January to March. Knautia Macedonica used to be known as Scabiosa autumn as seeds require a period of cold to germinate. Rumelica. It likes to grow in well-drained soil on the dryish side in full Surface sow, barely cover with soil or grit. Keep moist. sun, but will also tolerate partial shade. It can tolerate Germination takes 14-21 days but can be erratic and take some drought once established. It is an easy care plant which attracts many months. Thin to final spacing of 50cm. If planting under butterflies and bees. glass a period of cold stratification (put in vege compartment of fridge) may be required prior to sowing, 4°C for 4 weeks. When germinated move to 8cm pots and grow on at 10°C. Acclimatise and plant out. Knautia macedonica This plant has very bright cherry red pincushion like flowers, which is For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 20 $5.10 ‘Red cherries’ unusual in border perennials and has a long flowering season. It based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to (Scabiosa Rumelica, continues from late spring through autumn and even into early approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any Red Knight, winter. It is one of the very best perennials for borders. It makes a time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 Pincushion flower) nice neat rounded cushion of leaves and the flowers are held well to 20 degrees C. However, one can also sow most seeds in an above the greenery. The flowers are good for cutting. It is an unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as undemanding plant to grow, and will gradually spread to form a good many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often clump. wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season It is a very popular plant, and is attractive to beneficial insects of growth if successful germination occurs. including bees and butterflies. Leucanthemum This is a compact stable bushy variety, with dark green foliage and Sow indoors spring and autumn. Sow onto moist well-drained Approx. 25 $4.10 maximum, bearing in summer beautiful large (approx 15 cm) pure white seed compost. Just cover seed with soil or vermiculite, light is 'Starburst' – ( Shasta glistening flowers. It is a very good cut flower. It should be divided needed for germination. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Germination Daisy) quite frequently, maybe every 3rd year to maintain its vigour. It is a takes 21-28 days. If germination does not occur cold stratify. variety that will be remarked on by many visitors to your garden and Move to 4°C for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant is recommended for those of us who love marguerites. seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Leucanthemum * This is the tallest selection available and was originally developed for Sow indoors. Sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Approx. 20 $4.10 superbum ‘Polaris’ the cut flower market. It has large single 17cm flowers which have Just cover seed with soil or vermiculite, light is needed for white petals surrounding a yellow centre on stems of 120 cm. It is germination. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Germination takes 21-28 excellent for cutting. The plant likes a sunny position with free days. If germination does not occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C draining soil. Pinch out growing tips and first set of leaves in for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant seedlings November to create a bushier plant. Water well until established. when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and Requires little attention. Plants should be divided in the spring every plant out once danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. 2 to 3 years to maintain vigour. Deadhead or cut flowers to extend flowering. Cut plant to ground level after first frosts. Liatris spicata This plant forms a clump of grassy looking leaves, producing bright Sow the seeds indoors spring in trays or pots, onto moist Approx 30 $4.10 magenta-purple spikes of flowers which commence flowering in seed raising mix, and cover very thinly as they require light

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

midsummer. The flowers open from the top down, and are to germinate. Keep the soil moist ( not wet) while somewhat fuzzy looking. They are good cut flowers. It is a larger germination occurs and cover with a sheet of glass or plastic growing plant than ‘Kobold’ to conserve moisture. Ideal temp 21 deg during the day and 15 deg C at nights for 3 weeks. Place the seed tray in a semi shaded area. Germination takes 10-25 days. After germination keep in cooler conditions Liatris spicata This plant forms a low clump of grassy looking leaves, As above Approx. 20 $4.10 ‘Kobold’ producing bright magenta-purple spikes of flowers which commence flowering in midsummer. The flowers open from the top down, and are somewhat fuzzy looking. They are good cut flowers. This selection is compact in habit, which makes it a very good choice for tubs or mixed containers. It is drought tolerant, and is attractive to butterflies. Divide plants every 3 to 4 years in the spring. Liatris spicata This plant is grown as a commercial cut flower, as it lasts well in the Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Floristan white’ vase. Plants form a low clump of grassy looking leaves, bearing tall as above spikes of white flowers in summer. It is an easy care plant and is a good container plant, being drought tolerant. It makes a great sunny border plant or meadow garden as well and is attractive to butterflies. Plants may need to be staked if you live in a windy area. Consider combining it with the purple forms, for an eye-catching display in the border.

Liatris pycnostachya This liatris is an upright, clump-forming, perennial. It has Approx 40 $4.10 rounded, fluffy, deep rose-purple flower heads in summer, which are as above massed on long spikes above thickly-leafed, rigid flower stalks. It is the tallest of the liatris species growing to 1.5m with flower spikes . Flowers generally open top to bottom on the spikes, which is an unusual feature of liatris. The flowers are excellent in the vase, and if cut when the top only is open the flowers will continue opening day by day. Cut off the top flowers as they die. It is an easy care plant which does best in rich well drained soil but can also be grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. It is tolerant of poor soils, drought, summer heat and humidity, however it does not like wet soils in winter, so be sure to plant in well drained soil. It is loved by is an butterflies, bees and other pollinators, which are attracted to its nectar, and the birds love the seeds in the autumn. Small birds will visit the spikes in late autumn or early winter to eat the seeds

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Ligularia dentata This is a very handsome specimen perennial which needs a moist Sow indoors in late winter and spring. Surface sow onto Approx 20 $6.10 ‘Midnight Lady’ location. It is sometimes called elephant ears. It produces a mound of moist, well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seed but very dark shining leaves which are a black purple in colour. The press gently into the soil. Place in a propagator or cover with flowers appear in summer onto early autumn rising well above the clear glass or plastic to maintain humidity. Place somewhere foliage. They are daisy-like and bright golden-orange in colour. They bright. Ideal temp. 21-24°C. Germination takes 14 days and the leaves pick well.This plant is very elegant in a border or by approx. and can be irregular. Once germination occurs ensure the water. It can also be grown in a large container and makes an the plant has free moving air . Reduce temp. to 15°C and grow unusual specimen. As for most plants which have luscious foliage , on. Transplant individually to 8cm pots and grow on. slugs and snails can be a problem.You can divide the plant in spring Acclimatise and plant out in summer. every 3 -4 years. In our warmer areas give the plant at least afternoon shade. Lilium martagon- This is a mix of hybrids of Lilium martagon, which is a dainty small Fold an ordinary kitchen paper towel into 3 in alternating Approx 20 $7.10 hybrid ‘Painted flowered turks cap lily. The colours range from white, cream though directions to give a towel of 6.3 * 11.2 roughly. Open the last Ladies’ yellow pink and red to purple. Some may have spots and stripes. fold of the towel .Now moisten the whole towel with water, so it is only just damp. On one side of the last fold place the seeds, and refold the paper towel over the seeds. Now place it in a ziplock snack bag or similar and seal. Keep in a dark place at 18 deg C for 4 months, Check weekly to provide air movement . After 4 months move to 2 -4 deg C ( fridge will work) for 4 months. After this cool period , pot up the tiny bulbs covering with a 2cm layer of seed raising mix. First leaves should appear in about 3 weeks

Lilium nepalense This lovely lily has wide open saucer like flowers which are green Sow the seed into sphagnum moss which has been soaked for Approx 20 $5.10 with a dark red centre. It is quite easily grown from seed. 30 mins in water and then the excess moisture has been squeezed out. A kitchen towel can also be used instead of the sphagnum. Enclose the sphagnum moss/kitchen towel and seeds in a plastic bag , put into a container which excludes light ( a child’s coloured plastic lunchbox is good) and keep at approx. 15-20 deg C for about 1 month (a hot water cupboard or an unheated glasshouse works well) . Check the seeds every week for germination, and carefully remove and pot up any which have sprouted in seed raising mix . After 1 month pot up the remaining seeds covering them lightly and keep them at 15-20 deg C. Limonium caspium, This plant flowers the first year from seed. It has tall stately Sow indoors in Spring. Surface sow onto moist well-drained Approx 20 $4.10 'Dazzling Blue' – branching panicles of airy blue gyphsophila - like flowers which float compost. Cover with vermiculite or a light sprinkling of (Statice) above a mound of large flat leaves. Like all limoniums the flowers are compost. Ideal temp. 18-2°C. Germination takes 7-14 days. great for cutting and drying. Deadhead to prolong the flowering Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm display. It fits in well with other border plants and lends a lightness pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

to the flower display. It likes full sun and ordinary soil which is on the out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. dry side and well drained. It is hardy and requires very little maintenance. Plants which are already growing well can be divided in spring. Limonium gmelinii This limonium has pretty lavender blue flowers in spring and summer Sow thinly into moist well-drained seed compost, cover with a Approx 50 $4.10 ssp hungaricum above a mound of green leaves . It is a hardy plant which can very fine layer of seed raising mix. Keep moist. Propagate 20- withstand some drought. The flowers are good for picking. 23°C. Germination can be erratic. Transplant seedlings large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed .

Limonium perezzi This plant produces large clusters of flowers with dark purple calyces and Sow at anytime in pots or trays Approx. 30 $4.10 white corollas which are held well above the large rounded mid green leaves, Sow thinly into moist well-drained seed compost, cover with a fine and produce a great show in seaside gardens where they will grow well, layer of seed raising mix. Keep moist. Propagate 20-23°C. coming from the canary islands as they do. They will produce flowers for most Germination takes 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings large enough to of the year and last well in the vase. They will withstand light frosts but handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost should be sheltered from any extreme temperatures. has passed .

Limonium sinuatum This statice mix produces flowers in shades of apricot and coral. The Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed raising mix. Cover Approx 40 $4.10 ‘QIS Apricot’ QIS range has very uniform plant height and flowering time. The with a light sprinkling of seed raising mix. Ideal temp. 18-24°C. flower clusters are approx 7cm and are produced on strong stems Germination takes 7-14 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 30cm spacing.

Lilium martagon These lovely little lilies from Jelitto Seeds come in an attractive range These seeds have delayed hypogeal germination. They Approx 20 $7.10 ‘Painted Ladies’ of colours: yellow, apricot, pink, wine-red, orange, and white blooms, require a little more attention than some seeds, but are very and there are often purple spotted variations amongst these colours. well worth the patience. They need to be given 4 months They do best in well-drained humus rich soil and prefer part shade. moist dark warmth, followed by 4 months moist dark cold (2- 4 deg C)for germination to commence . So: Fold an ordinary kitchen paper towel into 3 in alternating directions to give a towel of 6.3 * 11.2 roughly. Open the last fold of the towel .Now moisten the whole towel with water, so it is only just damp. On one side of the last fold place the seeds, and refold the paper towel over the seeds. Now place it in a ziplock snack bag or similar and seal. Keep in a dark

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

place at 18 deg C for 4 months, Check weekly to provide air movement . After 4 months move to 2 -4 deg C ( fridge will work) for 4 months. After this cool period small bulbs should have developed. Pot up the tiny bulbs covering with a 2cm layer of seed raising mix. First leaves should appear in about 3 weeks

Lilium nepalense This lily comes from northern India Nepal and Bhutan . It has large This lily germinates quite easily. Ideally grown in spring but Approx 20 $5.10 luscious pendulous green flowers which have spectacular maroon- can be grown at other times of the year. Moisten a small red centres radiating out almost to the edges of the green petals. It amount of sphagnum moss and squeeze out the excess likes acid soil which is well-drained and also thrives in cool moisture. Put the lily seeds into the moss and put seeds and conditions. Flower stems tend to wander underground laterally and moss into a sealed plastic bag. Keep at 15-20 deg C (a hot can come up 30 cm away from the bulb , so be careful when water cupboard or glasshouse is ideal) for 1 month in a dark cultivating around the bulb. Stems grow up to 60 cm. The flowers place ( a coloured plastic lunchbox is ideal) . Inspect the have a strong musk-like fragrance. seeds every 4 days by opening the plastic bag and carefully remove any sprouting seeds from the sphagnum and pot them up in a small pot and keep at 12-18 deg C. At the end of the month , pot up any remaining ungerminated seeds. Linum perenne Blue Flax is a favourite perennial which is easily grown from seed, Sow in spring directly where they are to flower. Prepare soil Approx 20 $4.10 performing especially well in hot, sunny areas. It is an extremely and rake to a fine tilth. Broadcast sow with a light covering of dainty and pretty plant. It forms a bushy mound of small, ferny green soil. Water regularly to encourage germination. Germination leaves, bearing prolific numbers of small 5 petaled mid-blue flowers should take 2 weeks at 20°C, longer in cooler weather. Once for weeks on end. Flowers open for only one day, but there is a germinated thin to 4cm spacing .Once established it is easy to continuous display, on delicate looking stems which are actually grow. Do not fertilise as this reduces blooming. Does not like extremely difficult to break. Trim plants back in midsummer to root disturbance. encourage repeat blooming in the autumn. Excellent for edging, in the rock garden, or in mixed containers. Also suitable for naturalizing in a meadow sites. It tolerates heat, humidity and drought. Short- lived but usually will self-seed. Drought tolerant once established.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Lychnis chalcedonica This is a very popular hardy and easy to grow perennial cottage Sow in spring in trays or pots in good seed raising mix. Press Approx 40 $4.10 border plant, which flowers the first year from seed. The plant bears lightly into the surface of the soil, since this seed needs light large clusters of 5-10 cm fiery scarlet-orange flowers on tallish stalks to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist until in summer, above attractive bright green leaves. it is a good cut germination, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Transplant the flower, and is an easy care, long lived plant. It can be divided quite seedlings as soon as they care large enough to handle. easily in spring or autumn. It is attractive to butterflies and bees. It has won the award of Garden Merit from the RHS.

Lysimachia This plant has dark burgundy purple spikes which are produced Sow indoors or outdoors in Spring and Autumn depending on Approx. 30 $4.10 atropurpurea continuously from November to March. The flowers are good for your temperature range. Surface sow onto moist well-drained ‘Beaujolais’ – cutting, and look stunning in a large bunch. The plant has an upright seed compost. Ideal temp. 14-18°C. Germination takes 30-90 (Crimson spreading habit of growth, with grey-green pointed leaves which days but can be erratic. Transplant seedlings when large Loosestrife) have an attractive underside of silver. Its leaves are fine textured and enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and this adds to the appeal of the plant. They are borne on deep red plant out once danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. stems which are very interesting in winter. It likes moist soil in sun or Overwinter autumn sowings in a frost free area. partial shade. If you want to plant it in drier soil, then you should ensure that it has some shade, has plenty of compost added to its soil and is well mulched. Apply a mulch of manure to the base of plant in autumn. Divide plants, if required in spring and give a top

dressing of blood and bone. Unlike other lysimachia, this plant does not spread at the root, or become invasive Lysimachia This useful and ornamental plant should not be confused with the For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 20 $5.10 ephemerum – (Milky awful weed Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). This plant is based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to Loosestrife) absolutely non-invasive. This plant forms a clump of greyish green approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any leaves which is quite upright. The white flowers are borne on longish time. Keep at 20 deg C. If there is no germination in 3-4 upright spires in summer and late summer, and are attractive to weeks, ensure the seed tray is moist ( not wet) ,seal in a butterflies. It is a very good cut flower, which is used frequently by plastic bag and put into the fridge at - 4 to +4 deg C for 2-4 florists, and can be used to advantage particularly at the back of the weeks. Remove from fridge. This process may be repeated if border. It can be used to effect beside water, and is reportedly rabbit there is still no germination. resistant. Divide clumps in spring. Matthiola A very pretty, easy care, old-fashioned plant which is hard to find Surface sow onto the top of well drained seed raising mix or Approx. 20 $4.10 fruticulosa alba now, This plant, which is now hard to find, is a lovely filler for the alternatively direct where they are to grow in spring. These garden border, requiring no care at all and rewarding each year with seeds need light to germinate. Optimum germination a prolific display of scented white flowers. It is particularly nice near temperature is 15-18 deg C. Keep watered, and plant out an entrance way where its scent will waft indoors. It grows to about when large enough.The seeds usually germinate in 10-14 days 70cm and forms a rounded clump of attractive soft blue grey felted leaves, from which arise, in the second year of growth, wonderful

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

sprays of scented white flowers in spring and summer. It tolerates a moderate degree of drought and also some cold. Deadhead to maintain flowers and vigour. The plant will last for 3-4 years, before becoming woody, by which time you will need to replace it from the odd plants which have self seeded in your garden. Matthiola incana This is an early flowering branching stock variety. It is a wonderful cut Sow seeds in spring and autumn on moist seed raising mix. Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Quartet Rainbow’ flower with all of the style and scent you may wish for. The flowers Cover lightly with mix and keep moist at about 18 to 20 deg C. have cream yellow centres with a touch of rose on the outer petal Germination takes about 14 days. Reduce the temperature as edges and they have a wonderful clove scent. Stems are approx soon as the seedlings emerge to about 8 degrees C. If you 60cm long. Approx 55 % are likely to be double with the rest single to want to select only doubles , look for seedlings with lighter semi double. You can select for doubles by following the sowing leaves as they are more likely to produce double flowers advice below. The plant should be pinched to produce a good flower while the seedlings with darker leaves are more likely to have spray form. single flowers. transplant into cell pots and grow on in cool temperatures. Transplant outside after the last frost. Moraea huttonii This Morea has large, showy, bright yellow flowers with brown Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit Approx 20 $4.10 nectar guides, and darker veins on the outer tepals which appear on 5mm deep, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot a tall flowering stem. It forms a large clump of long, evergreen, outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent arching leaves which can reach up to 150cm long. It blooms in early germination so be very patient as many species will only spring and often throughout summer and enjoys moist well drained germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist soil. It is a hardy bulb which comes from South Africa. It bears many seed tray in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small sweetly scented flowers which are like that of an iris in appearance. pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into It requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between the open ground. waterings and is particularly suitable for bogs and water gardens and enjoys full sun.

Nepeta racemosa This form of the well loved persian catmint has rich purple blue Sow at anytime, in pots or trays. Sow thinly into moist well-drained Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘Select’ flowers and is more upright, and less sprawling than other selections. seed compost, cover with a fine layer of vermiculite. Keep moist. It can be used in edgings, or mass planting or as a ground cover. It Propagate 18-22°C. Do not exclude light. Germination takes 10-20 will flower its heart out from late spring to late summer. It is an easy days. Transplant seedlings large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed . low maintenance perennial which will grow easily from seed. It likes full sun.

Nicotiana knightiana A tall graceful annual plant which adds architectural form to your Surface sow in spring, cover with glass or plastic and keep Approx. 40 $4.10 garden. It has small tubular flowers which are like pale apple green warm till germinates. Once germinated, remove cover. Plant velvet. It can be used in a tub or pot as well as in the garden. It is out when all risk of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. quite hardy, and will grow in sun or light shade so long as it is kept moist. It is a good cut flower and will flower 14 -16 weeks after planting Nigella damascene This plant has has white double flowers and very decorative dark Plants are sensitive to root disturbance so it is best to sow Approx. 40 $4.10

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

‘Albion Black Pod’– coloured seed pods for fresh and dried bouquets.The fluffy 5cm directly into the place that they are to grow — If you want to (Love-in-the-Mist) blooms fade to large, dark plum-colored seed pods on 60cm stiff sow them in pots take care to transplant them as soon as they stems. The flowers are accompanied by dainty , ferny foliage. The can be handled to avoid too much disturbance. Outdoors: pretty balloon-shaped seed pods dry well and can be used to great Sow in early spring when soil temperatures reach effect in dried arrangements. Flowers are attractive to bees and 16°C. Indoors : Sow 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Also can other beneficial insects.Nigella is extremely easy to grow. It is a hardy be sown in autumn where winters are mild. Cover lightly with annual, and it can be sown early in spring or sown directly where it is soil and keep moist . to flower. Sowing to flowering takes just three months. The flowers are well suited for traditional cottage garden settings or can be planted in a meadow where the soil is a little on the dry side and not too rich. The seed heads are also attractive and the seed pods can be dried for winter decorations indoors. Nigella damascena This pretty love-in-a-mist has double flowers which open a creamy As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Mulberry Rose’ white with faint blush of pink . They gradually deepen to a deep rose. It makes a great cut flower , and if you cut the flowers regularly you will encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Nigella damascena These flowers are a beautiful dark blue which grow lighter toward As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Persian Jewels the centres. Indigo’ Nigella damascene This is the lovely classic semi double sky blue love-in-a-mist which As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Miss Jekyll’ everyone loves. They make a great cut flower and will dry well for dried arrangements Omphalodes Omphalodes cappadocica is one of the spring plants which gardeners Seeds can be sown at any time but are best sown in winter or Approx 6 $6.10 cappadocica seek, because seed is scarce, and because of its lovely bright blue early spring. Cover seeds very thinly with seed raising mix to flowers which are produced above a mat shiny dark green leaves. about the depth of the seed size. If the seeds do not come up The plant is very well behaved and will expand outwards very slowly within 6 to 12 weeks the damp seed tray can be given cold to form a small mound. It has been awarded the R.H.S. Award of treatment in a fridge for about four weeks. They may still take Garden Me a long time to appear, even months, so keep an eye on the tray ensuring it does not dry out . Omphalodes This is a dainty, charming little plant with grey-green leaves. It Sow directly. Sow 6mm deep into a well prepared seedbed Approx. 30 $4.10 linifolium produces sprays of faintly sweet-scented, pure white flowers with after danger of frost has passed. Germination takes 14-42 golden eyes (that are excellent for cutting) in great profusion for days at 22°C. Thin seedlings when large enough to handle to most of the summer. 15cm It will gently self seed, but does not ever become a nuisance. It will tolerate full sun or partial shade, and is also drought tolerant, but prefers a moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun. Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Water infrequently but deeply. It is best when planted in groups so that the full of the fluffy white flowers can be appreciated.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Orlaya grandiflora Orlaya grandiflora is a hardy annual which has lovely pure white Indoors: Seeds can be sown in pots or trays indoors, but care Approx 20 $4.10 flowers that form in large, flat-topped clusters which look somewhat must be taken when transplanting as their long tap root is like a lace-cap hydrangea’s flower. Each small central flower is easily damaged surrounded by a circle of larger flowers. The flowers are borne in Direct: Sow where they are to flower once temperatures are mid summer, and last through to the first frost. They are around 15 to 20°C . Surface sow to no more than 1mm deep. complemented by the filagree ferny foliage. They create a lacy effect Sow thinly in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a in the summer borderand make an excellent cut flower. fine tilth. Lightly cover the seed. Water ground regularly, especially in dry periods. Orlaya grows to a height of around 60 to 70cm the large flower Germination will normally occur within 7 to 21 days at heads grow to around 8cm across and the flowers complement temperatures around 20 to 22°C. When large enough to others in the garden or bouquet handle, thin out seedlings to 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) apart. Papaver orientale- Papaver orientale needs cold in the winter to develop its leaves and Can be sown at any time. Light is needed for germination and Approx $4.10 hybrid ‘Pizzicato’ flowers properly. It will grow best in inland areas of the South Island seedlings do not like to be disturbed. Nor do they like to be and the North Island Central Plateau area. In other milder areas it over watered. Either sow where they are to grow, on well will grow, but may be shorter lived and the flowers may be short raked soil, or sow in cell trays or pots , a few seeds to a cell. stemmed. It is happy in most sites and soils though will flower at its Sow on the top of moist (but not wet) seed raising mix and best in full sun in well drained soil. It will flourish in spite of drought, press in with the hand. Keep at about 20 degrees C. baking from intense summer heat or freezing in winter. Once Germination takes 2-3 weeks. Take care not to disturb the established, the bold Oriental poppies grow and multiply for roots overly, when transplanting cell grown seedlings. decades.Pizzicato is a new semi-dwarf strain of oriental poppy. It produces flowers in a mixture of red, scarlet, orange, salmon, mauve, pink and white flowers. Its flowers are produced above lush foliage on strong stems to a height of 50 – 60 cm, and they are strong enough to withstand quite a strong wind. The flowers are large with a diameter of 15 – 20 cm. The plant produces up to 20 superb flowers on very uniform plants. Pizzicato won the Fleuroselect prize The strong, 50 cm tall stems can even resist heavy winds. It produces up to 20 superb flowers on very uniform plants. It is easily grown from seed Papaver orientale- ‘Brilliant Red ‘ has handsome scarlet red flowers with a black centre. As above Approx. 50 $4.10 hybrid ‘Brilliant Red’ It is a vigorous perennial poppy which grows to about 75cm in height. These plants are long-lived and virtually care-free and a bed of them are an instant eye catcher.

Papaver orientale- ‘Princess Victoria Louise’ has lovely large salmon pink double flowers As above Approx 30 $4.10 hybrid ‘Princess which resemble a fluffy pink paper tissue flower, with a black eye at Victoria Louise’ the centre . It grows to 60 cm tall in optimum conditions. Papaver orientale- This plant is a stunning addition to the garden. It has large pure white Sow onto the surface of cell pots or trays. Do not cover with Approx 4 $4.10 hybrid ‘Royal satiny flowers with a striking dark eye at the centre. It makes a good soil. Keep at 20 deg. C. It should germinate in less than 2 Wedding’ cut flower if it is cut just before the bud begins to open. It is a larger weeks. It resents root disturbance. Small amounts of seeds

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

growing variety growing to approx. 50 cm. sown in cell pots make transplanting easier. Be careful not to disturb roots too much when pricking out seedlings from trays. Papaver pilosum ssp. This pretty perennial poppy has large somewhat droopy crinkled, Sow onto the surface of cell pots or trays. Do not cover with Approx. 4 $4.10 spicatum soft orange-apricot flowers. It is different from other poppies in that soil. Keep at 20 deg. C. It should germinate in less than 2 it flowers along the length of its stem and the flowers, which are weeks. It resents root disturbance. Small amounts of seeds often 12 to a stem, open from the topmost one first. It is as pretty in sown in cell pots make transplanting easier. Be careful not to the bud as it is in flower. The stems, leaves and buds are covered disturb roots too much when pricking out seedlings from with a fine grey-green hairy felt . The flowers are borne in late spring trays. and summer. It is a rare poppy which originates from south-western Turkey. Penstemon This penstemon the Wasatch Penstemon, has brilliant electric blue Sow in trays or pots in autumn in a cold frame or in early Approx 4 $4.10 cyanathus flowers in spring and summer. winter. Sow onto a moist seed raising mix. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of mix. Place in a cold frame. 8 weeks at 4°C is needed. If germination does not occur or temperatures are too warm then put in fridge for 8 weeks. Germination can be slow and erratic and may require another winter cold period to occur. Seed must be kept moist. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle or plant out.

Penstemon digitalis, In early Spring , this plant produces bronze rosettes of foliage. In Sow in a cold frame or directly in early winter. Surface sow Approx 30 $4.10 'Mystica'- (Beard early summer Mystica produces panicles of large, light lavender-pink onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with Tongue) flowers on bronze stems and the flowering continues over a long fine gravel or similar. 8 weeks at 4°C is needed. Natural period. The flowers are complemented by deep purple foliage. In winter cold should offer ideal conditions for germination to autumn, the leaves on Penstemon Mystica will turn to a bright red, occur as the weather warms in spring. Germination can be and they will continue like this into the winter. The plant likes well slow and erratic and may require another winter cold period drained fertile soil, in full sun. Deadhead spent flowers, unless seed is to occur. Seed must be kept moist. Transplant seedlings when required. Cut plant back to base in winter. Propagate via softwood large enough to handle or plant out. cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe stem tip cuttings in summer- autumn. Divide established clumps in spring. Perovskia This plant flowers in summer with billowing clouds of lavender blue Sow in pots or trays or direct where they are to grow Approx 20 $4.10 atriplicfolia flowers. It makes a great border plant Sow into moist, well-drained seed raising mix. Just cover with a thin layer of soil. Ideal temp 20 deg C. Keep moist but not waterlogged. Germination takes 7-21 days.Keep in cooler conditions once they have germinated.

Phlomis russeliana Phlomis Russeliana is a popular plant due to its long flowering Sowing: Best sown early winter to early spring. Best sown Approx 30 $4.10 season. It produces, at intervals, long stems of soft yellow whorled when temperatures are around 5°C. Sow finely and evenly. flowers from late spring into autumn, above lush and dramatic heart Cover thinly with compost, grit, soil or sand to about 5mm. shaped green leaves. Each plant forms an architectural candelabra- Keep cool and covered in a cold frame or unheated

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

like effect in the garden, and as a bonus in autumn the flowers turn greenhouse. No heat is needed. Make sure the compost is to handsome seed heads, which add drama to the autumn garden. kept moist but not wet. The seeds can germinate irregularly Although appearing ethereal and tender, this plant is a hardy over a long period, they can germinate in as little as 14 to 42 specimen to about - 15 degrees C. and the beautiful leaf rosettes are days but often over several months so do not discard seed evergreen over winter. In addition, Phlomis Russeliana is drought trays prematurely. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, hardy and is an excellent plant for dry partial shade or a dry site in transplant to 7cm pots. Harden off before planting into their full sun. It tolerates poor, dry soil extremely well. It requires very final positions. Space plants 30cm apart. little maintenance. Phlomis tuberosa Phlomis tuberosa ‘Bronze Flamingo’ produces abundant lavender Sow seeds in moist seed raising mix. Cover very lightly as light Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Bronze Flamingo’ pink hooded flowers, which are borne on dark burgundy stems. The is needed for germination. Propagate at 20 deg C. Keep moist plant lends an architectural quality to the garden and blooms from but not wet. late spring through summer. It is hardy in most parts of New Zealand, These seeds can germinate erratically and if you live in an area which gets frost or snow then you will be delighted with the striking sight of hoar frost on the seed heads.

It likes full sun with well drained fertile soil and medium moisture, but can also tolerate some drought and thus is useful in dry gardens. It is attractive to bees and butterflies. It was awarded the prestigious RHS ‘Award of Garden Merit’ in 2012 Phlox drummondii ‘ This lovely annual phlox has very pretty colour combinations Sow indoors in seed trays or pots in spring and outdoors in Approx. 20 $4.10 Cherry Caramel’ of caramel and rosy-pink double blooms with bold dark pink central early summer ,15mm deep into moist well-drained seed stars. Phlox is one of the favourite summer bedding annuals, which raising mix. Cover lightly with seed raising mix . Propagate at have large, clustered masses of heads throughout the summer and 13-15°C. Germination takes 10-21 days. Transplant seedlings into autumn. It has a long flowering season and is also good for when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Pinch out growing cutting.This plant needs a rich , well-drained soil,, so add compost if points when the plant is 8cm tall to encourage a bushy habit. required, and water it well, and deadhead it to encourage further Plant out as the weather warms with 25cm spacing. Can be blooms. If you fertilise Phlox Drummondii once in spring and once in sown where they are to flower in early summer. summer, it will reward you with abundant blooms.

Phlox drummondii This phlox has a mix of blush pink and silvery white sweetly scented As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Blushing Bride’ flowers. It makes a great cut flower, and is a favorite summer annual bearing large clusters of scented flowers throughout summer and into autumn. Phlox drummondii ‘ This pretty annual phlox has unusual colour combinations of dusky- As above Approx. 20 $4.10 Crème Brulee’ pink, creams and peachy shades. A summer bedding annual, which has large, clustered masses of heads throughout the summer and into autumn. It is also good for cutting. Phlox drummondii This phlox has long stems ( approx 50 cm). The colour range is pure Sow indoors in seed trays or pots, in spring. Sow outdoors in Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Art Shades’ white to cream, pink, rose, buff, buttercup, yellow, gray, lavender- early summer. Sow 15mm deep into moist well-drained seed

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

mauve, purple, blue and maroon, with the darker colours in the raising mix. Cover lightly with seed raising mix . Propagate at centres small eyes or star shaped accents. It makes an easy to grow 13-15°C. Germination takes 10-21 days. Transplant seedlings annual which also makes a good cut flower when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Pinch out growing points when the plant is 8cm tall to encourage a bushy habit. Plant out as the weather warms with 25cm spacing. Can be sown directly where they are to flower in early summer.

Phlox paniculata The majority of gardeners have always loved border phlox. This Sow Indoors : July - October, and April -June. Outdoors: Approx. 20 $5.10 ‘New Hybrids Mix’ delicious perennial can be used for a moist border in sun or partial October - January. Sow July to September for flowering same (Perennial Phlox) shade. They make good cut flowers and are attractive to butterflies. year. Sow Oct - December for flowering following year. Sow in The colours are lovely, and the flowers have sweetly fragrant, April for overwintering. Soak seeds for 10 minutes, place in a evening scent which is lovely in the cool of the day, and they are very polythene bag with a little damp compost. Cold stratify ( in easy to grow. This new selection has a beautiful, improved colour warmer areas put in vege compartment or door or fridge) for range of white, salmon, salmon rose and salmon red through to deep 4 weeks at 4°C. Then sow seeds onto seed compost, cover rose, purple, violet, burgundy and carmine. Each bud opens in with a fine layer of compost. Germination takes 14-28 days at succession, enabling the plant to bloom continually throughout 4°C or 7-14 days at 15-18°C. Transplant seedlings when large summer. They will flower in the first year, around February if sown in enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on at 10°C. Pinch out early July. growing points when the plant is 8cm tall to encourage a compact habit. When planting out set the crown of the plant 4.10cm below the soil surface. Platycodon This strain has long strong stems and mid pink flowers and was Sow in trays or pots in spring or sow directly after danger of Approx. 4 $4.10 grandiflorus ‘Florist specifically bred for the flower trade. It forms a compact mound of frost has passed. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed Pink’ deep green foliage from which arise inflated buds that open into compost. Do not cover seed as light is needed for star-shaped single pink blossoms. The plants come up quite late in germination. Simply press seeds into the soil. Ideal temp. the spring, and continue blooming from early to late summer. They 20°C. Germination takes 15-30 days approx. Transplant make a good cut flower. Deadhead them regularly to maintain the seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and flower production, and prune back after flowering to maintain the grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after plant's shape. danger of frost has passed. Platycodon As above but blue As above Approx. 4 $4.10 grandiflorus ‘Florist Blue’ Platycodon A lovely strain recommended for use in the cut flower market with Sow indoors in spring or sow directly outside in early summer Approx. 20 $4.10 grandiflorus, long stems and double blooms of a purplish-blue. Deadhead the after danger of frost has passed. Surface sow onto moist, 'Hakone Blue', Tall spent flowers to prolong flowering. This plant can be easily grown in well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seed as light is Double - (Balloon average soils which are well drained. It likes full sun, but can also needed for germination. Simply press seeds into the soil. Ideal Flower) tolerate partial shade. The plant has a long taproot and division is temp. 20°C. Germination takes 15-30 days approx. Transplant difficult as is transplanting because of its fragile root system. The seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and new growth comes up late in the season, and can easily be grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after mistakenly weeded out or the crowns can be damaged, so take care danger of frost has passed

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

to mark them or to leave the old stems in place to mark the spot. Platycodon As above but double white As above Approx. 4 $4.10 grandiflorus, 'Hakone White', Tall Double - (Balloon Flower) Polemonium This is a unique colour for polemoniums. The plant has tall stems Sow indoors or under glass in autumn or spring. Surface sow Approx. 20 $4.10 carneum ‘Apricot which bear soft groups of pink-white-apricot blossoms. It has onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a Delight’ – (Jacob’s attractive green, compound foliage from late spring to early summer, sprinkling of vermiculite. Ideal temp. 15-18°C. Allow Ladder) and it is very easy to grow. It looks equally at home in woodland temperature to fall slightly at night. Germination takes 20-25 settings or rock gardens. 'Apricot Delight' will self-seed, producing days approx. If temperatures rise too high germination may extra plants.The plants make strong, graceful mounds and are fail. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm attractive even when not in bloom. They like a mostly-shady to semi pots and grow on in light shade. Overwinter under glass for shaded spot - on the woodland edge is perfect. They are resistant to the first year. Acclimatise and plant out the following year rabbits. after danger of frost has passed. Polemonium This beautiful plant has bright blue flowers above dark purple foliage Sow indoors or under glass in autumn or spring. Surface sow Approx. 30 $5.10 yezoense 'Purple that deepens in bright sunshine. This plant blooms for 4.10 weeks or onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a Rain' -(Jacobs more, and makes a good cut flower. It is deer resistant. sprinkling of vermiculite. Ideal temp. 15-18°C. Allow Ladder) temperature to fall slightly at night. Germination takes 20-25 days approx. If temperatures rise too high germination may fail. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in light shade. Overwinter under glass for the first year. Acclimatise and plant out the following year after danger of frost has passed. Potentilla This is a small hardy plant reaching approx 30 cm high, which has Sow at any time. Sow in trays or pots. Sow onto a good seed Approx. 30 $4.10 atrosanguinea var large bright red flowers borne freely throughout the summer. It likes raising mix. Cover the seeds with fine grit or seed mix, very argyrophylla ‘Scarlet a moist well drained soil in full sun and will withstand frost. It is a finely. Keep at 20 degrees C. Keep in cooler conditions after Starlit’ compact plant whose silvery foliage is attractive even when the plant germination occurs. Germination will occur in 2-3 weeks. Pot is not in flower. on when large enough to handle (about 4 weeks) and transplant to the garden once they are large enough

Potentilla ‘Monarchs Potentilla Monarchs Velvet has many heads of deep raspberry red For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx. 30 $4.10 Velvet ‘- (Cinquefoil) flowers which are shaded to crimson velvet in the centres. The plants based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to are long lived and flower for a very long time over strawberry like approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any leaves. It is free standing rather than forming a carpet and is thus time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 useful in the mid mixed border. It is cold hardy to minus 29 degrees to 20 degrees C. However, one can sow most seeds in an and yet is still evergreen in the winter. If started early enough, it can unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as bloom in its first year.To keep it blooming cut it back regularly. It is many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often an excellent filler plant without overly displacing other perennials, wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

and can be used in containers or in the cottage border. They are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season reported to be pest resistant which is an added bonus. of growth if successful germination occurs. Potentilla Helen Jane is a smaller cultivar. It has compact heads which For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx. 30 $4.10 nepalensis, 'Helen have bright pink single flowers with crimson eyes. The petals are like based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to Jane' - (Nepal crepe paper. The flowers appear in summer, and it likes full sun . The approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any cinquefoil) plant is frost tolerant, and can withstand a moderate amount of time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 drought, liking soil to be well drained and even a little on the dry to 20 degrees C. However, one can sow most seeds in an side . It is a good candidate for a planter, but is equally at home in unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as the front border. many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs. Potentilla This is a lovely plant for the front of the border. Its flowers are an For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 30 $4.10 nepalensis, 'Miss unusual colour, being bright rosy crimson with a dark crimson eye. It based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to Willmott' - has a small mound of bright green leaves which are very like those of approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any (cinquefoil) a strawberry. Its flowers begin in early summer. Plants should be time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 sheared back after blooming, to rejuvenate the foliage. Division may to 20 degrees C. However, one can sow most seeds in an be done in early spring or in the fall. It makes a good companion for unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as other plants in mixed tubs or containers. It is best in full sun and many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often prefers a poor to moderately fertile well drained soil. This plant wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are should die back at the end of the growing season, if it does not, then sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season cut back stems to ground level in spring. Propagate by division in of growth if successful germination occurs. spring. Primula x pubescens This seed selection, from Jelitto seeds, has a brilliant coloured Sow the seeds in cell packs or flats, press into soil but do not Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Kaleidoscope’ mixture of large flowering yellow, velvety-red, blue-lilac, creamy cover as they need light to germinate. Keep at approx 18° C. white and bicoloured variations borne over a mound of leathery mid Germination is in 21-30 days green leaves. It has an award of garden merit from the RHS.The plant likes moist humus rich soil which is well drained and is in part shade.They do not like heat nor can they tolerate humidity. Rudbeckia fulgida, This plant has wonderful large golden yellow daisy - like flowers Sow early spring to autumn. Sow seed onto moist well- Approx. 20 $4.10 'Goldsturm' -(Storm borne in profusion. The flowers have black centres and are produced drained seed raising mix. Just cover with a fine layer of of Gold) in summer. It is a very good cut flower having long sturdy stalks. It is vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. easily raised from seed and likes full sun though it will adapt quite Germination takes 10-15 days. If there is no germination in 3- happily to partial shade. It likes moist soil which is also well drained, 4 weeks cold stratify ( put in vege compartment of fridge) at - but can tolerate some drought when it is firmly established, 4°C-+4°C for 4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant however, you will need to mulch it well. Deadhead regularly to seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on extend flowering and encourage further blooms (and if you do not in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of wish the plant to self-seed). frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Rudbeckia fulgida This plant is a great flower producer. It flowers after Rudbeckia As above Approx 30 $4.10 var fulgida ‘Golsturm’ and has a more open habit with slightly smaller flowers. It

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

flowers on until the frost arrives.It makes an excellent cut flower. Rudbeckia hirta Rudbeckia hirta, 'Cherokee Sunset' is a fully double mix of large Sow indoors late winter and spring and outdoors in spring. Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Cherokee Sunset’ flowered yellow to bronze shades . It is very compact, easy to grow Sow seed onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover and offers lots of blooms in the heat of summer. It grows all season with a fine layer of vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil long and produces masses of flowers from January into March. It is moist but not wet. Germination takes 10-15 days. Transplant great in containers and in the border. seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late October. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. When large enough to handle thin to 45cm spacing. Rudbeckia hirta This is a new colourbreak in the Gloriosa daisy stable, which Sow in trays or pots indoors in late winter and spring and Approx. 20 $5.10 ‘Cherry Brandy’ produces flowers for months on end on a robust plant. It has large outdoors direct in spring 10cm daisy like heads with ruby red petals, which have a central Sow seed onto moist well-drained seed mix. Cover very black eye. It is a very good mixed container or border subject. It lightly with a fine layer of vermiculite or mix. Propagate at 18- blooms in the first year from seed and is a good cut flower. 20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. Germination takes 10-15 Deadhead to encourage further blooming. days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late October. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. When large enough to handle thin to 45cm Rudbeckia hirta, Gloriosa Daisy hybrids are sometimes treated as annuals, as they are Sow indoors in early spring. Sow seed onto moist well-drained Approx 20 $4.10 'Denver Daisy' - short lived perennials. This is a mid-sized plant which has large seed compost. Just cover with a fine layer of vermiculite. (Gloriosa Daisy) yellow daisy flowers, where the black cone is encircled with a Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. Germination mahogany-red eye. It flowers for many months and the plant is takes 10-15 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to bushy and compact. It make a very good cut flower and the seed handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise heads can also be used. If you remove spent blooms the flowering and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 45cm time will be prolonged. It looks great in containers. This plant prefers spacing. Can be sown directly from late October. Sow thinly a moist well-drained soil in full sun. Do not allow soil to dry out. 3mm deep into well prepared soil which has been raked to a Mulch if soil is prone to drying out.The plant is reasonably drought fine tilth. Water regularly. When large enough to handle thin tolerant once it is established. It was bred by Ernst Benary Seeds to to 45cm spacing. commemorate the 150th anniversary of Denver.

Rudbeckia hirta This Rudbeckia has fully double, golden yellow , flushed mahogany Sow indoors late winter and spring and outdoors in spring. Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Double Daisy’ flowers that are 12- 15cm wide. Plants have sturdy upright stems Sow seed onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover that grow about 70cm high. Flowering in a profusion of bright with a fine layer of vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil golden-yellow flower heads with large black centers. the long, sturdy moist but not wet. Germination takes 10-15 days. Transplant 70cm high stems makes this a good selection for cutting. Blooms the seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

same year from an early sowing. Grow as an annual cut flower, but in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of may also be a short lived perennial. frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late October. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. When large enough to handle thin to 45cm spacing. Rudbeckia hirta, This is a medium to tall variety, which produces large fully-double Sow indoors August - October. Sow seed onto moist well- Approx. 30 $4.10 'Goldilocks' - and double golden-yellow daisies with a black eye. The flower is drained seed compost. Just cover with a fine layer of (Gloriosa Daisy) excellent for cutting. The breeder has stated that these seeds are an vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. improved strain which has an above average percentage of doubles. Germination takes 10-15 days. Transplant seedlings when It flowers for many months and the plant is easy care. It makes a very large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler good cut flower and the seed heads can also be used. If you remove conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has spent blooms the flowering time will be prolonged. It looks great in passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late containers. This plant prefers a moist well-drained soil in full sun. Do October to December. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well not allow soil to dry out. Mulch if soil is prone to drying out. The prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water plant is reasonably drought tolerant once it is established regularly. When large enough to handle thin to 45cm spacing. Rudbeckia hirta, Rudbeckia hirta, 'Irish Eyes' is a taller strain, producing strong base Sow indoors August – October. Sow seed onto moist well- Approx. 30 $4.10 'Irish Eyes' - branches holding, in late summer to autumn, huge single golden- drained seed compost. Just cover with a fine layer of (Gloriosa Daisy) yellow daisies with a bright green eye. It has an upright spreading vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. habit, multiple flowering stems and mostly lance-shaped leaves Germination takes 10-15 days. Transplant seedlings when covered by coarse hairs. The flowers are god for cutting and last well large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler in the vase. Deadhead regularly to extend flowering and encourage conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has further blooms. Deadhead if you do not wish to self-seed. It is a short passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late lived perennial, often best treated as an annual. It prefers a moist October. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well prepared soil which well-drained soil in full sun. Do not allow soil to dry out. Mulch if soil has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. When large is prone to drying out. It is a low maintenance, drought-tolerant enough to handle thin to 45cm spacing. plant once it is established, that is not particular as to soil type or pH and should do well under typical garden conditions. Cut back to ground level in late autumn and divide clumps every 2 to 3 years in early spring, just as the plant emerges. It performs well in containers and is a good choice for attracting butterflies and bees. Rudbeckia hirta This plant has large bright yellow flowers with an inner halo of darker As above Approx. 30 $4.60 ‘Prairie Sun’ gold and a green eye. It flowers in the first year and is best treated as an annual Rudbeckia maxima – Rudbeckia Maxima forms a low clump of large blue-grey leaves. From Sow indoors August - October. Sow seed onto moist well- Approx. 20 $4.10 (Coneflower) this low clump rise tall stems of yellow flowered daisies which have drained seed compost. Just cover with a fine layer of large erect black cones in the middle of them in mid-summer. They vermiculite. Propagate 18-20°C. Keep soil moist but not wet. are good for cutting. The basal leaves are spectacular, and the plant, Germination takes 10-15 days. Transplant seedlings when being so handsome, can be used as a specimen on its own, as well as large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler being placed at the back of a border. In mild winter regions the lower conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has leaves may remain evergreen. Clumps can easily be divided in early passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown directly from late

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

spring. Stems are self-supporting and seldom need to be staked. The October. Sow thinly 3mm deep into well prepared soil which flowers are attractive to butterflies. Deadhead regularly to extend has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. When large flowering and encourage further blooms. Deadhead if you do not enough to handle thin to 45cm spacing. wish to self-seed. The plant prefers a moist well-drained soil in full sun. Do not allow soil to dry out. Mulch if soil is prone to drying out. However once established the plant can tolerate a certain amount of drought, if it is well mulched. Salvia argentea This plant is a short lived perennial which is grown for its unusual Sow mid to late spring. If your area gets frost, plant indoors 4- Approx. 20 $4.10 bright silver foliage, which turns to greyish green as the summer 6 weeks before the last frost. Sow the seeds in pots or trays advances.The leaves are quite plump and fuzzy, like a lamb’s ear. It is on moist seed raising mix, and cover with a sprinkling of soil. best placed at the front of the garden where its beautiful tactile Place in a bright location ( but not direct sun) and keep moist foliage can be admired. It is frost hardy to approx. minus 20 deg C ,but not wet. Germination will be around 21-30 days. Salvia Cyanescens - This plant can handle most weather that the elements can throw at For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx. 30 $4.10 (Blue Turkish Sage) it. It can tolerate cold to minus 15 degrees C. It has large felty white based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to leaves which grow in loose round mounds. The large violet blue approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any flowers are borne on thin spikes. This salvia loves hot dry places and time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 good drainage. It is slow growing, but is also very tough and lives for to 20 degrees C. However, one can sow most seeds in an a long time. It can be used to advantage in containers where it can unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as tolerate some dryness, and as an attractive plant in the garden. It is many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often native to Turkey and Iran. wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs. Salvia jurisicii – Salvia juriscii is an attractive plant even when it is not in bloom. It Sow indoors in spring. Surface sow onto moist well-drained 4 $4.10 (Lavender Sage) has very attractive grey- green feathery foliage, and this is most seed compost with only a sprinkling of soil to cover. unusual for a salvia. It blooms in summer, bearing deep blue flowers Propagate temp. 20-25°C. Keep moist but not wet. that appear upside down, the lips pointed upwards instead of down Germination 10-14 days. Even under good conditions which is usual. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. If you germination can be erratic. Transplant seedlings when large wish to collect seed allow the heads to become dry and brown enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler before cutting. This plant needs full sun to grow well, and once it is conditions. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has growing well, it is quite drought resistant. It will grow in almost any passed with 30cm spacing. soil. To propagate, divide in early spring or take softwood cuttings at any time. Salvia nemorosa This is held by many to be one of the finest salvias. Salvia Nemorosa Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Blue Queen’ is on many gardeners' "must have " list, for its rich display of spiky raising mix with only a sprinkling of soil to cover as light is flowers in the early summer border. This is a vigorous small form of needed for germination. Ideal propagation temp. 20-25°C. salvia which forms small bushy clumps. It has intense dark blue Keep moist but not wet. Germination usually occurs in 10-14 branching flower spikes which are produced in early summer, and days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to one plant can appear like a solid block of dark blue , the flower spires 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and are so thick. The plant repeat blooms later in summer and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 30cm spacing. reproduces its fine display.It is a hardy, easily grown plant,and

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

flowers the first year from seed. It can tolerate some drought, grows in spots where other less tolerant plants would complain, and doesn't mind heat. It is a plant that can fill a bare spot and look good in a very short time. If you grow in groups , it is a show stopper when in flower. Salvia nemorosa This plant forms compact mounds of leaves, with chubby spikes of As above Approx. 20 $5.10 ‘New Dimension bright rose-pink flowers. This plant is also drought tolerant once Rose’ established. If you clip it back hard after flowering, it will produce new foliage which will freshen up the plant. Butterflies love it. Salvia Nemorosa makes a good plant for the border edge or in containers. Salvia patens ‘Blue Salvia patens ‘Blue Angel’ has mid blue flowers throughout summer, Sow in spring and autumn. Surface sow onto seed raising mix, Approx 20 $6.10 Angel’ on a healthy easy care plant which branches well do not cover seeds as they need light to germinate. Ideal temperature is 15-20°C. Keep moist but watch out for damping off. Germination usually occurs in 14-30 days. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on, transplanting into larger pots as required. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing Salvia patens ‘Patio Salvia patens 'Patio Deep Blue' is a healthy , well-branched gentian As above Approx. 20 $6.10 Deep blue’ sage which is easy to grow and does not require much care. It is a tuberous herbaceous perennial. It will produce its deep blue flowers continuously with good care and it is also tough and heat tolerant. It forms a compact plant which has large, attractive long leaves that are oval in shape, lightly hairy and bright green with margins which are serrated. The plant forms a clump over time. Whorled tubular, two-lipped, hooded blue flowers appear from summer till frost. The blooms are slightly hairy and are extremely attractive to bees. This pretty salvia grows easily in sun or partial shade. It will tolerate some drought once established, but it performs and blooms best when watered regularly during the growing season. It can tolerate temperatures a few degrees below freezing, but it really should be grown as an annual, or lifted for winter protection where the temperatures become too low. If you remove dead flower spikes it will re-bloom for you. Plant clumps can be divided when they become thick. It can be used in containers, mixed borders and rock gardens. Salvia patens ‘Patio As above except sky blue As above Approx. 20 $6.10 Sky blue’ Salvia pratensis This is a pretty mix of white, pink, blue and violet hooded blooms. Seeds can be sown at any time, but if you sow them between Approx. 20 $4.10 Ballet-Series The plants have dense flower heads, full of rich flowers, and are an May and November, they will flower for you in the summer. ‘Meadow Ballet amazing sight in full bloom. If you deadhead the plant, it will re-

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Blend’ bloom over the summer period. The multi branched heads of Surface sow onto good seed raising mix. Needs light to flowers are loved by the bees and butterflies. Plant in the cottage germinate. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Keep moist but watch out for garden, in beds and borders for a great display. damping off. Seeds will germinate in about 14-30 days. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on, transplanting into larger pots as required. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Salvia pratensis Salvia Rose Rhapsody has a rich densely packed display of long soft For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil- Approx 20 $4.10 ’Rose Rhapsody’- pink spikes in summer. It is medium in size , and tolerates both heat based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to (Meadow Sage) and humidity well. Spent flowers should be removed to encourage approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any repeat flowering, so that the plant does not spend its energy on time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 making seeds. It is attractive to butterflies, bees and the foliage is to 20 degrees C. However, one can also sow most seeds in an aromatic. The soil should not dry out completely, even though the unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as plant can tolerate drought. In mild areas the plant will stay green many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often over winter, but should be cut back hard in spring to encourage new wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are grow. sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs. Salvia sclarea var. Clary sage has been grown for centuries. It has been used for : Sow indoors in August & September. Surface sow onto seed Approx 20 $4.10 turkestanica – (Clary flavouring for wines, an oil for perfumes, potpourri and incense and compost. Needs light to germinate. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Keep Sage) medicinally for stomach illnesses. It is a bone hardy plant which moist but watch out for damping off. Germination 7-21 days. needs no care whatsoever and is beautiful to boot. It likes well- Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm drained soil in sun or even partial shade. It grows well in poor soil pots. When well rooted plant out in autumn or spring with and resists slugs and snails. It grows in full sun, with almost no water, 30cm spacing. and the large, grey-green leaves remain attractive all season long. Salvia sclarea var. turkestanica is a wonderfully architectural plant with branched stems, each stem bears masses of pale blue, white, cream, pink/rose, purple/lavender, or darker blue blossoms and large pinkish white bracts. The flowers stand above the large, aromatic, mid-green leaves, which can grow up to 23cm long. Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers which must be full of nectar. It is a short lived plant, being essentially a biennial, but will self-seed, sometimes to excess, so weed out those seeds you don't want , but be sure to save some as this plant is too beautiful to lose altogether. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. If you wish to collect seed allow the heads to become dry and brown before cutting Salvia sclarea, Salvia sclarea, 'Piemont' has huge candelabra-like spires of deep Sow indoors in August and September. Surface sow onto seed Approx 20 $4.10 'Piemont' – (Clary violet-purple bracts with white flowers, and is a very showy clary compost. Needs light to germinate. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Keep Sage) sage. The bright colour and long lasting bracts make for a long, moist but watch out for damping off. Germination 7-21 days. showy season in your garden. The plant has a robust, branching, Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm upright habit and produces a mass of bloom in December and pots. When well rooted plant out in autumn or spring with

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

January. The leaves are heart shaped, aromatic and fuzzy. This plant 30cm spacing. grows in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It likes a moist, rich soil but also likes the soil well drained. It is a biennial and lasts only for 2 years but self-seeds readily, so weed out any excess seedlings, but keep a few as they are such a beautiful thing in the garden. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. If you wish to collect seed allow the heads to become dry and brown before cutting. It is deer resistant and attracts butterflies and bees. Salvia x superba, Salvia x superba, 'Adora Blue' is an erect, clump forming hybrid Sow onto moist well-drained seed Sow indoors Sept - Approx 20 $5.10 'Adora Blue' – perennial sage that produces many upright, dense flower spikes of December and approx. 8-10 weeks before last frosts are due. (Flowering sage) hooded, tubular, deep violet blue over a long flowering period from compost. Cover with only a sprinkling of soil as light is needed summer onwards. It is fibrous rooted, and has an evenly branched for germination. Watch out for damping off. Ideal temp. 18- form. The foliage is dark green and aromatic. The flowers attract 24°C. If the temperature is not maintained germination can bees and butterflies. It looks equally good in pots and the garden. It be erratic. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle likes well drained moist soil in full sun, but will tolerate any soil type. to 8cm pots. Increase pot size as the plant grows. Acclimatise Pinch out growing tip when plant is 15cm tall to encourage bushy and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 15-30cm growth. Keep well-watered until established. Fertilise monthly if spacing. desired. Remove faded flower spikes to prolong flowering. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. If you wish to collect seed allow the spherical heads to become dry and brown before cutting. Do not remove old stems until new growth appears in spring. Best time to divide perennial Salvias is in early spring prior to new growth emerging. Salvia * superba Salvia Superba "Merleau Blue" has very deep violet blue flowers Sow indoors spring and early summer or approx. 8-10 weeks Approx 20 $5.10 ‘Merleau Blue’ which are borne profusely in mid-summer into autumn. It is a good before last frosts are due. Sow onto moist well-drained seed cut flower. It flowers in its first year from seed on a compact well compost. Cover with only a sprinkling of soil as light is needed branched plant. It is tolerant of drought when well established and is for germination. Watch out for damping off. Ideal temp. 18- attractive to both butterflies and bees. It can be divided in spring, 24°C. If temperature is not maintained germination can be and this should be done every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigour. It was erratic. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to a winner of the European Fleuroselect Gold Medal in 2007. 8cm pots. Increase pot size as the plant grows. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 15-30cm spacing. Salvia x superba, Salvia x superba, 'Rose Queen' is an erect, clump forming hybrid Sow indoors Sept - December or approx. 8-10 weeks before Approx 20 $5.60 'Rose Queen' – perennial sage that produces many upright, dense flower spikes of last frosts are due. Sow onto moist well-drained seed (Flowering Sage) hooded, tubular, purple-rose over a long flowering period from compost. Cover with only a sprinkling of soil as light is needed summer onwards. It is fibrous rooted, and has an evenly branched for germination. Watch out for damping off. Ideal temp. 18- form. The foliage is dark green and aromatic. The flowers attract 24.10°C. If temperature is not maintained germination can be bees and butterflies. It looks equally good in pots and the garden. It erratic. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to likes well drained moist soil in full sun, but will tolerate any soil type. 8cm pots. Increase pot size as the plant grows. Acclimatise Pinch out growing tip when plant is 15cm tall to encourage bushy and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 15-30cm

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

growth. Keep well-watered until established. Fertilise monthly if spacing. desired. Remove faded flower spikes to prolong flowering. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. If you wish to collect seed allow the spherical heads to become dry and brown before cutting. Do not remove old stems until new growth appears in spring. Best time to divide perennial Salvias is in early spring prior to new growth emerging. Sarracenia species These are hybrids of cultivars and their species. (Alata x flava x These seeds need a period of moist cold to germinate. You Approx. 20 $4.10 ‘New Hybrids’ leucophylla x purpurea). They will have pitcher leaves with variable can either put them outside if your temperatures are cold marking in redbrown to yellow. They will appeal to those of you who enough ( 4 deg) or put them in the fridge. Fold a kitchen have small inquisitive relatives , who are generally fascinated with paper towel in 4.10 and moisten so that it is damp but not their carnivorous properties. They make a very attractive foliage waterlogged . Into one of the folds place the seeds. Using plant. They should be grown outside after the first 2 years of their snack size plastic zip lock bags, put the seeds in the paper life. They will need a moist place. Acclimatise them gradually to the towel into the bag . You can spray the paper towel with outside temperatures after frost has gone. They will become fungicide or Neem for fungus avoidance. Zip soil mix of 1 part dormant when the cold weather arrives. perlite and 1 part peat moss and firmly press them down. Avoid covering up your seeds.If there is still a risk of frost outside, germinate your seeds indoors in a brightly lit window sill that receives several hours of direct sunlight. You will see germination within 4 weeks. If there is no risk of frost in the next several weeks, place your pot of seeds outdoors in partial sun. You will see germination within 4 weeks, provided that the weather remains warm enough. In most situations, seedlings will be 1-2 inches tall at the end of their first season. They will reach flowering maturity in an additional 4 seasons Scabiosa This plant is very attractive bearing mauve-pink ruffled flowers which Sow spring and summer, into moist well-drained seed Approx 20 $4.10 atropurpurea, surround a deep burgundy centre. The centre has white stamens compost. Just cover with soil and keep moist. Germination 'Beaujolais Bonnets' which are offset against the deep red background making a striking takes 7-4 days. Transplant seedlings once large enough to – (Pincushion contrast. They flowers are about 5 cm wide and they make very good handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of Flower) cut flowers lasting well in water. Butterflies and bees are attracted to frost has passed with 30cm spacing. Place March sown seeds them, and they bloom in masses right through the summer into the in a cold frame to overwinter, plant out following spring. autumn. They like moist well drained soil, but take care not the waterlog them. Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage more flowers. Divide and replant every 2-3 years to maintain growth. Scabiosa This strain of Scabious is excellent, both the garden border and for Sow in Spring seed trays or pots , into a moist well-drained Approx. 30 $4.10 atropurpurea ‘QIS the production of particularly high quality cut flowers. It is stronger seed compost. Cover very thinly as the seeds need light to Salmon’ and has a more upright growth habit than other scabiosa. It germinate. Propagate with gentle heat at 18 -23 deg C. has large, well formed blooms up to 6cm wide, on long, strong Germination takes 5-14 days. Transplant seedlings once large stems, which have a very regular height. Butterflies are enough at 35-40 cm apart.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

attracted these pretty , sweetly fragrant, easy-to-grow, hardy annuals. they are quite fast growing, and bloom profusely . They produce double flowers approx 5 cm wide, borne on on tall, strong stems. They flower from summer into early autumn, and will give their beautiful best to your summer border and supply you with some excellent cut flowers. Scabiosa This scabiosa has large, well formed dark wine coloured blooms up Sow in Spring seed trays or pots , into a moist well-drained Approx 30 $4.10 atropurpurea ‘QIS to 5cm wide, on long, strong stems, which have a very regular height. seed compost. Cover very thinly as the seeds need light to Deep Red’ Butterflies are attracted these pretty , sweetly fragrant, easy-to- germinate. Propagate with gentle heat at 18 -23 deg C. grow, hardy annuals. they are quite fast growing, and bloom Germination takes 5-14 days. Transplant seedlings once large profusely . They produce double flowers approx 5 cm wide, borne enough at 35-40 cm apart. on on tall, strong stems. They flower from summer into early autumn, and will give their beautiful best to your summer border and supply you with some excellent cut flowers.

Scabiosa caucasica Scabiosa caucasica “Fama Deep Blue” has lovely intense lilac-blue Sow in early winter through to autumn Approx 20 $6.60 ‘Fama Deep Blue’ – 10cm flowers which have a silvery grey centre, and are held above Sow seeds in pots or trays in moist seed raising mix. Sow Pincushion Flower the foliage on long strong stems. The flowers are perfect to use as 1.5mm deep. Cover seed lightly with vermiculite after sowing cut flowers, and they are reputed by florists to be the best Scabiosa as they need light for germination. strain for cutting. The plant grows in dense mounds of pointed grey Place the container in a propagator or seal in a plastic bag green leaves. It is very easy to grow, and is hardy to below -18°C after sowing to keep the moisture constant. Place in a warm (0°F) and will flower in its first year from an early sowing. Scabiosa place to maintain an ideal temperature of around 18 to 21°C. bloom all summer long and will still be producing blooms well into Keep the seed raising slightly damp but not wet. Avoid direct autumn. Bees and butterflies love them. They prefer well-drained sunlight by shading seeds after sowing. Germinates in 2 to 3 soil and a sunny position. They dislike cold, wet winters and hot, weeks at 18 to 21°C. humid weather and do best in temperate conditions. In spring Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle into 9 to fertilise moderately. Don't fertilise after Spring. Scabiosa caucasica 10cm pots after 4 weeks. Grow on at 10°C. Acclimatise young has long stems that initially produce one large flower. You can cut plants to outdoor conditions before planting out. Space the the dying flower stem back to the lowest buds, halfway down, and plants 30 to 60cm apart. then two slightly shorter-stemmed flowers will spring from the bud axils. Deadheading encourages plants to flower for a prolonged period. Scabiosa caucasica, This strain flowers the first year from seed. A native of the Caucasus Sow indoors July - September. Sow 2mm deep into moist Approx 20 $5.50 'Perfecta Alba- Mountains, it has strong, stiff stems, and large flowers approx. 8cm well-drained seed compost. Propagate 18-21°C. Germination (Pincushion Flower) or more in diameter. It has lovely frilly, large white flowers which takes 2-3 weeks. Transplant seedlings once when large have long strong stems and are excellent as cut flowers. It attracts enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on at 10°C. bees and butterflies and flowers and is very easy to grow. It has a Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed very long flowering season. It likes full sun and fertile well drained with 50cm spacing. soil. It can take some drought once established. Deadhead regularly

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

to prolong flower production. Once the plant becomes larger it is wise to divide the root ball, discarding the older woody parts, to retain vigour. Scabiosa caucasica, This strain flowers the first year from seed. A native of the Caucasus Sow indoors July - September. Sow 2mm deep into moist Approx. 20 $5.10 'Perfecta Clear Blue' Mountains, it has strong, stiff stems, and large flowers approx. 8cm well-drained seed compost. Propagate 18-21°C. Germination - (Pincushion flower) or more in diameter. It has lovely frilly, large azure blue flowers takes 2-3 weeks. Transplant seedlings once when large which have long strong stems and are excellent as cut flowers. It enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on at 10°C. attracts bees and butterflies and flowers and is very easy to grow. It Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed has a very long flowering season. It likes full sun and fertile well with 50cm spacing. drained soil. It can take some drought once established. Deadhead regularly to prolong flower production. Once the plant becomes larger it is wise to divide the root ball, discarding the older woody parts, to retain vigour. Scabiosa caucasica Scabiosa goldingensis has been around for over 100 years, but it is As above Approx 20 $5.50 ‘Perfecta still the largest and deepest blue shade available, and it is still used Goldingensis’ as a cut flower. The plant is compact, and the stems are long. The plant produces masses of rich dark lavender blue flowers and it has a very long blooming season. It is a worthwhile plant to have in your garden. Scabiosa columbaria This plant is 25 cm high when in flower, and has soft pink pincushion Sow in spring and autumn, in seed trays or pots in moist seed Approx. 20 $4.10 f. nana ‘Pincushion flowers. It has a long flowering season and is very attractive to bees raising mix Pink’ and butterflies. It forms a compact mound with basal leaves which Sow 1.5mm deep. Cover seed lightly with soil after sowing as are often divided in form. It is a valuable, and reliable front of border they need light for germination. Place the container in a plant which can be depended upon to produce almost non stop propagator or seal in a plastic bag to keep the moisture colour. constant. Put in a warm place to maintain an ideal temperature of 18 to 21°C. Keep the seed raising mix slightly damp but not wet. Shade the seeds after sowing. Scabiosa columbaria germinates in 2 to 3 weeks at 18 to 21°C. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle into 9- 10 cm pots after 4 weeks. Grow on at 10°C. Acclimatise young plants to outdoor conditions before planting out. Space the plants 30 to 60cm apart. Sedum telephium Sedum ‘Emperor’s Waves’ provides a welcome splash of colour in Sow in spring and autumn Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Emperors Waves’ late summer and autumn. It has flower heads made up of masses of Sow on the top of moist seed raising mix. Do not cover as the tiny star shaped purple-red pink flowers, and these stand above the seeds need light to germinate. Propagate at 20 degrees C. succulent blue green foliage.The stems are dark purplish red. Germinates in approx 2-3 weeks It prefers well-drained soil,and likes full sun or a lightly shaded spot. They will also doo well in containers filled with good quality compost. It is a great little plant,being hardy and drought resistant. Senecio cineraria Senecio cineraria ‘Cirrus’ is grown for its foliage and for its mounding Sow in spring, or January for production of plants for Winter Approx 30 $4.10

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

‘Cirrus’ plant form.It is often used as an edging plant for marking the containers. Germination takes up to 21 days at 18-21°C, cover perimeter of a border. The rounded leaves are a silvery-grey and lightly with vermiculite, prick out after 5-6 weeks and they feel like soft silver felted ears from a small animal.The plant grow on at 10-15°C. grows to approx 20cm tall and makes a lovely contrasting filler for spaces in the garden, between brightly coloured bedding plants or for pots. It likes full sun, does well in most soils, likes a well drained site and tolerates drought well. It is very weather resistant. In warmer areas it can act like a perennial. Senecio cineraria This plant has silvery deeply toothed leaves which are prized for their Sow 8-10 weeks before last frost indoors. Do not cover the Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Dusty Miller New effectiveness in floral work where they fill the backgrounds of seed as light is required for germination. Bottom water or Look’ bouquets elegantly.The plant will produce small yellow flowers in the mist to avoid covering the seed with mix. Transplant into cell second year, but they are best cut off , so that the plant doesnt packs or larger containers when the first true leaves appear. spend all of its energy producing seeds, at the expense of foliage. Keep the foliage dry if possible and avoid watering late in the day to reduce the risk of fungus disease Sidalcea candida This pretty plant is a graceful addition to the garden. It is used as a Sow in autumn, winter and early spring Approx. 20 $4.10 ‘Bianca’ smaller version of a hollyhock. It has pure white 5 cm bloom which Sow the seeds in seed trays or pots in good seed raising mix are densely packed on many long slender stems which rise about 70 and just cover. Keep warm and moist at 18-22 deg C for the cm high. The plant is quite compact only reaching about 50cm wide first 2-4 weeks. After this move to -4 to +4 deg C for 4-6 eventually. It flowers in mid to late summer, and a group of these weeks. Then move to 5-12 deg C for germination. look very pretty. The plants have rounded leaves with 7 lobes. It likes full sun to part shade in moist but sandy, well draining soils. Sidalcea malviflora, Sidalcea malviflora, 'Party Girl' is like a miniature hollyhock. It has Sow indoors in August to October. Prior to sowing cold Approx 20 $4.10 'Party Girl' – (Prairie pink and rose blooms in masses on long spikes in summer. It does stratify (place in vege compartment of fridge). Place seeds in Mallow) not take a great deal of care to grow, and is excellent for cutting. To a bag with damp sand at 4°C. for 4 weeks then sow 2mm keep it healthy, cut it back hard in autumn. Deadhead to prolong the deep into moist well-drained seed compost. Cover with a fine flowering season. Propagate by division in spring. It prefers moist layer of compost. Propagate. Ideal temp. 15°C. Germination well drained soil in full sun, and does not like to be wet in winter. It is takes 14-42 days. Germination can be erratic. repeated cycles attractive to bees and butterflies and also slugs and snails, so be of warmth and cold may be required before germination ready to hunt the latter down! occurs. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in a cold frame. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Sidalcea malviflora, This prairie mallow has delicate pale pink flowers and blooms in Sow indoors in August to October. Prior to sowing cold Approx 20 $4.10 'Rosaly' – (Prairie masses on long spikes in summer. It does not take a great deal of stratify (place in vege compartment of fridge). Place seeds in Mallow) care to grow, and is excellent for cutting. To keep it healthy, cut it a bag with damp sand at 4°C. for 4 weeks then sow 2mm back hard in autumn. Deadhead to prolong the flowering deep into moist well-drained seed compost. Cover with a fine season. Propagate by division in spring. It prefers moist well drained layer of compost. Propagate. Ideal temp. 15°C. Germination soil in full sun, and does not like to be wet in winter. It is attractive to takes 14-4 days. Germination can be erratic. Repeated cycles bees and butterflies and also slugs and snails, so be ready to hunt the of warmth and cold may be required before germination latter down! occurs. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in a cold frame. Acclimatise and plant

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

out once danger of frost has passed with 50cm spacing. Stokesia laevis ‘Blue This plant forms a short mound of dark green leaves and can be used Sow seeds in autumn, winter and spring indoors in trays or Approx. 20 $7.10 Star’ as a ground cover. In late summer, it produces lovely shaggy 7- 10 cm pots. blue-mauve flowers which are like big cornflowers. They are held Sow seeds on top of moist seed raising mix and cover very above the green foliage and are produced in abundance. It will lightly. Keep moist but not wet at about 20 deg C. Once withstand frosts and temperatures down to about minus 15 deg germination occurs, keep in cooler temperatures. C.but prefers temperatures above 0 deg c. Where the temperatures are clement , it will produce flowers just about all year round. It is an easy care plant, and makes a very good cut flower, and many people think that it is one of the best late flowering perennials. Tagetes patula ‘Mr This is one of the best liked and showiest marigolds, with yellow and Sow seeds in spring and summer in trays or pots. Approx 20 $4.10 majestic Double’ maroon double flowers which are packed with petals. It is a low- Sow seeds on top of moist seed raising mix and cover very growing productive marigold which starts blooming early in summer lightly with soil. Keep moist but not wet at about 20 deg C. right through until the first frost. Thin spent flowers to prolong germination will occur in 1-2 weeks. flowering. These plants produce root exudates that are the organic alternative to chemical nematicides. Dye from the petals is a colorfast rust tone. Tanacetum A strain of old fashioned painted daisies with semi double and single Sow indoors in trays or pots 6-8 weeks before the last frost or Approx 30 $4.10 coccineum ‘Double large flowers in a mix of white, light pink, dark pink, red and darkred. direct outdoors in spring. Mix’ Great for borders or tubs Cover seeds very finely with soil as they need light to germinate.. Keep at 20 ° C or higher and keep moist. Germination takes approx. 14-21 days. Can also be direct sown in groups of 4 seeds, spaced 15-60 cm apart. Thin to the strongest plant. Tanacetum This is a small bushy growing plant which has pretty double white Sow spring to midsummer and in autumn. Sow the seeds on Approx. 4 $4.10 parthenium rosette type flowers . It makes a good cut flower. the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or ‘Santana’ trays. Press lightly into the soil, don’t cover as light is needed for germination. Propagate or place somewhere warm, 15- 20°C. Water from the base of tray only. Keep in a warm place, ideally at 15 to 20°C. Keep moist but do not waterlog. Germination should take between 5 to 10 days. Transplant each seedling once it has its first set of true leaves into 7.5cm pots with free-draining compost until large enough to plant outside. Tanacetum This is a lovely feverfew, with large double white flowers, which are Surface sow seeds or just cover them, as light needed for best Approx 30 $4.10 parthenium ‘Ultra great for cutting and does well in the garden. The effect of the germination, keep them at 20 deg C or slightly above this, Double White’ flowers is that of small white pompoms. on a compact bush. It germination starts in 10-14 days and is spread out over a few flowers the first year from seed, and is a late summer bloomer. weeks.

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

Tanacetum This plant has large long-stemmed double white flowers. It is a good Surface sow seeds or just cover them, as light needed for best Approx. 20 $4.10 parthenium ‘Virgo’ cut flower. germination, keep them at 20 deg C or slightly above this, germination starts in 10-14 days and is spread out over a few weeks. Thalictrum Thalictrum aquilegifolium is a very beautiful perennial. It has a basal Sow indoors in spring and summer. Sow onto moist well- Approx. 20 $5.10 aquilegifolium – mound of fine lacy bluish- green foliage that appears similar to an drained seed compost. Just cover the seed with vermiculite or (French meadow aquilegia. The flower stems which are produced in late spring and soil. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep soil moist but not wet at all rue) early summer are topped with large panicles of purple fuzzy flowers. times. Germination takes 15-21 days. Transplant seedlings Thalictrum is tolerant of warm humid summers, and prefer a rich soil when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Gradually which is moist. It enjoys dappled sun, but is fairly tolerant and will acclimatise and plant out after 10-15 days with 45cm spacing. take partial shade. If it is kept moist it will tolerate full sun. It is an easy care plant, and if the seed is sown early enough in the season it will flower in the same year. Thalictrum aquilegifolium 'Purpureum' produces up a superb array of flower stems that rise above the foliage in late spring to early summer and are topped by a hazy, fuzzy show of purple flowers. Despite their delicate appearance, Thalictrum is fairly tolerant of warm, humid summers. They prefer a rich, humus rich soil on the moist side and dappled to partial shade, but will grow reasonably well in most borders if the soil is moisture retentive. In warm regions plants will tolerate full sun if kept moist. Clumps may be easily divided in spring when growth commences, and it is wise to divide it every 2-3 years to renew its strength. In midsummer, they add a lovely, gentle effect when combined with larger flowered plants and provide an excellent contrast to more architectural plants. They produce a shimmering hazy effect in beds and borders, and both leaves and flowers are good for flower arrangements. Thalictrum 'Blizzard' This is a very beautiful variety of Thalictrum Delavrayi. It is quite Seeds can be sown at any time but are best sown in winter or Approx 20 $5.10 -(Meadow rue) compact and produces small hovering shiny white flowers which early spring to benefit from a cold spell in the wet compost to shimmer like tiny parasols amongst delicate maiden-hair-fern like break their dormancy. It is advisable to cover seeds very leaves. It flowers on into autumn. Its leaves are somewhat paler than thinly with sand or fine grit to about the depth of the seed the other Delavrayi varieties. It is a beautiful addition to the summer size. If the seeds do not come up within 6 to 12 weeks the border. The foliage starts off green but then as it ages begins to damp seed tray can be given cold treatment in a fridge for assume a purple tinge. Foliage of plants that are under stress can about four weeks. They may still take very many months to turn completely purple, and sometimes plants which are grown in appear, so please never discard the pot or tray. pots assume a purple tinge to their leaves. It is a member of the buttercup family and grows high on hillsides in scrub in the North western Yunnan province of China, in ground that is often stony and acidic. In gardens the plant seems to adapt well to a range of

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

conditions, from full sun to dappled shade, in any reasonably well drained soil, and does not like to be waterlogged. Try to protect it from winds by placing it next to a protecting plant on the windward side, so that you don’t have to stake it, as its airiness is spoilt by staking. It is a very useful and pretty garden plant which does not seem to take very much care and increases a little in size year on year. Thalictrum lucidum This extremely beautiful perennial bears abundant delicate airy Propagate at 20 deg C. If there is no germination in 3-4 weeks Approx 20 $5.10 clouds of soft cream powderpuff-like flowers which have bright then enclose the moist seed tray or pot in a plastic bag and tie yellow stamens. The beautiful dark green fern-like leaves appear to the bag, and put the bag with the seeds in it, into the door or be polished, and this characteristic has given rise to its common vegetable compartment of the fridge. Leave there for 4.10 name 'Shining Meadow Rue'. As an added bonus the foliage turns weeks. Remove from the fridge. This process can be repeated bright gold in the autumn. This thalictrum is easy going, likes dappled if germination doesn't occur. shade and moist soil, but will tolerate full sun or partial shade so long as it is kept moist. It is an excellent border plant, and adds texture and light to the garden, with its shimmering leaves. Both leaves and flowers can be cut for floral work. Thalictrum This Thalictrum is prized for its delicate sprays of arched lavender Sow seeds as soon as you receive them, at any time of the Approx 20 $5.10 rochebrunianum – flowers with bright yellow stamens which hang from the flowers like year into a seed tray or pot with moist seed raising mix and (Giant Meadow Rue, tiny bell tongues. It can be used in many different situations in the keep moist but not waterlogged. If there is no germination in Lavender Mist) garden - as it is a plant through which other flowers can be seen, and 3-4 weeks then enclose the moist seed tray or pot in a plastic fits in well as a background plant or in groups where it appears to bag and tie the bag, and put the bag with the seeds in it, into advantage. The flowers appear on lovely sturdy purple stems, and the vegetable compartment of the fridge (or door). Leave the pretty tracery of fine, ferny grey green foliage makes a very there for 4 weeks. Remove from the fridge. This process can attractive ground cover in its own right, during the spring and be repeated if germination doesn't occur. summer. This plant blooms later than other Thalictrums, from mid to late summer and for a longer time period (up to 6 weeks), and adds a vertical accent to the garden with its clouds of rose-lavender flowers. It is a good cut flower, is easy to grow and is not eaten by rabbits. Trachymene This is a pretty frothy lacy pink flower which makes an excellent cut Sow directly where they are to flower in spring or can be Approx. 50 $4.10 coerulea ‘ Lacy Pink’ flower, which gives a delicate appearance to bouquets. The 6cm sown indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Sow into seed trays flowers are held on straight stiff stems, and they have a mild, clean filled with seed compost. Only cover lightly with soil. They fragrance . The plant is well branched and grows upright. It has few require darkness to germinate. Cover, water only from the leaves. This plant is well worth having in the garden as it produces base. Ideal temp. is 18-20°C. Germination takes 15-20 days. blooms for up to two months. Transplant when large enough to handle. Grow on in small pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Trachmene caerulea As above but blue As above Approx 50 $4.10 ‘Lacy Blue’ Trachymene A mixture of blue white and pink shades. As above Approx 4 $4.10

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

caerulea ‘Madonna Mixed’ Verbascum chaixii Verbascum chaixii, ‘Sixteen Candles’ has handsome leafy rosettes Sow direct in autumn approx. 2 months before 1st frost. Sow Approx. 4 $4.10 'Sixteen Candles' – and from these come many -branched flower heads consisting of thinly into prepared soil. Once germinated thin to 45cm (Mullein) hundreds of bright yellow flowers, each one of which has violet- spacing. Can be sown indoors August - September. Surface coloured stamens. sow into deep pots or root trainers filled with moist well- It is an easily grown and statuesque plant. drained seed compost. Allow 3cm between seeds. Just cover It prefers well drained soil, and dislikes wet heavy soils. It tolerates the seeds with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. Keep moist. frost and drought once established, but during winter protect with Propagate 15-18°C. Germination takes 2-4 weeks. After mulch. ‘Sixteen Candles’ provides a good supply of food to honey- germination reduce moisture allowing soil to dry out a little. bees, and it will self seed. When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to 8cm The plant prefers full sun. pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has To encourage repeat blooming remove the central flower stalk after passed with a 60cm spacing. initial flowering. Cut just above where the side shoots are forming with a sharp knife.

Verbascum chaixii This Verbascum has pure white flowers with dark purple centres. Its Sow direct in autumn approx. 2 months before 1st frost. Sow Approx 4 $4.10 var. album, flower stems are multi branched. It has neat basal rosettes of mid thinly into prepared soil. Once germinated thin to 4.105cm 'Wedding Candles' – green leaves. The plant prefers well drained soil, and dislikes wet spacing. Can be sown indoors August - September. Surface (Mullein) heavy soils. It tolerates frost and drought once established. 'Wedding sow into deep pots or root trainers filled with moist well- Candles' provides a good supply of food to honey-bees, and it will drained seed compost. Allow 3cm between seeds. Just cover self-seed. The plant prefers full sun in a moist well-drained soil. the seeds with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. Keep moist. During winter protect with mulch. To encourage repeat blooming Propagate 15-18°C. Germination takes 2-4 weeks. After remove the central flower stalk after initial flowering. Cut just above germination reduce moisture allowing soil to dry out a little. where the side shoots are forming with a sharp knife. This plant won When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to 8cm a Royal Horticultural Society award of merit. pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed with a 60cm spacing. Verbascum This lovely snowy-white flowering species of Verbascum, 'Flush of Indoors: Approx. 4 $4.10 phoeniceum ‘Flush White', is a true perennial which can flower in the first year if sown Sow 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. The plants have a long of White’ early enough in the season. It is a favorite cottage garden plant to tap root, so you may wish to use root trainers or long combine with tall hollyhocks, or with delphiniums. Try it in the pots. Sow in trays, or pots of good seed rasing mix. Space front of a mixed border, as its flowers are slender enough to make a 2.5cm between the seeds. Cover the seeds lightly with seed statement without crowding out other plants. It will withstand a raising mix to help keep the seed moist during germination. considerable amount of wind without snapping its stems. Shade the seeds after sowing to avoid direct sunlight. Place in Verbascums lend architectural form to the garden. The a propagator or warm place to maintain a temperature of 15- large leaves lie flat on the ground, like an open fan. From this basal 18°C . Keep soil slightly moist but not wet. Once the seeds rosette 3-4 stems often 1 m high, of snowy flat faced white flowers have germinated, reduce the moisture levels , allowing the arise. A group of these plants provide an arresting visual statement growing medium to dry out slightly before watering to help

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

to the garden promote rooting. They are usually ready for transplanting in 5-7 weeks. Harden off and plant out when all risk of frost has passed 45cm apart in full sun. Outdoors Seeds can be sown directly where they are to flower in either Spring (two to four weeks before average last frost date) or in Autumn (up to two months before first autumn frost) Sow thinly and thin seedlings to an eventual spacing of 38 to 45cm.

Verbascum This mix has a colour range of violet, red, pink and white . It blooms Sow in autumn approx. 2 months before 1st frost or can be Approx. 50 $4.10 phoeniceum ‘Mixed reliably and has lovely flowers held on thin airy graceful spires. It sown indoors August – September.Sow direct where they are Colours’ can be somewhat short lived ( 2 – 4 years) but will self seed readily to grow or in pots or trays for you. The small plants can be easily transplanted. If you deadhead Outdoors: Sow thinly into prepared soil. Once germinated thin the flowers it will rebloom for you. Grow this plant in well drained to 45cm spacing. soils which are not too rich in compost. It is drought tolerant and will Indoors: Surface sow into deep pots or root trainers filled with self seed in the garden. It likes the soil to be a little dry moist well-drained seed compost. Allow 3cm between seeds. Just cover the seeds with a fine layer of soil, as light aids germination. Keep moist. Propagate 15-18°C. Germination takes 2-4 weeks. After germination reduce moisture allowing soil to dry out a little. When seedlings are large enough to handle Verbascum This plant is a shorter form of verbascum which suits many smaller As above Approx 50 $4.10 phoenicum ‘Violetta’ gardens better than some of the taller verbascum forms. It blooms reliably every year and has lovely rich dark purple flowers held on thin airy graceful spires. If you deadhead the flowers it will rebloom for you. Grow this plant in well drained soils which are not too rich in compost. It is drought tolerant and will self seed in the garden Verbena hastata, Verbena hastata is a different plant from most commonly seen Sow indoors in spring. Sow into moist well-drained seed raising Approx 20 $4.10 'Blue Spires' – (Blue Verbena. It is hardy through most winters, and if it is sited in a sunny mix. Just cover the seed with vermiculite or soil. Put the pot into Vervain) well drained spot its sheer volume of flowers make it a real winner. It plastic bag and seal. Place in door of fridge for 12 weeks. Then bring is becoming very popular. Verbena hastata 'Blue Spires' produces out of fridge into light and propagate at 20°C. This can have very slow and erratic germination (14-90 days). Water from the base of the pot. stems of flowers which branch like large candles on an 18th century Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 8cm pots. dinner table with lovely blue flowers which are produced in volume Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed 30cm at the tips of the stems. The flowers come in mid-summer and bloom apart. through into late autumn. Grow plants together in groups for the best effect. Pinch back when first planted to encourage branching. Water deeply to encourage root growth. If the seed is sown early it will flower in the same year. Cut flowers regularly to encourage growth and to prolong flowering. Deadhead if you do not want it to

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

self-seed, and there will be another flush in autumn if you have deadheaded. Cut back old growth in spring once new shoots emerge at the base. This plant is easily grown in average, to medium, moist soils in full sun. It is a hardy plant and does not need staking, and gives an abundance of mid to late summer colour in the garden. The plants can also be used to advantage in a container. Verbena hastata, As above but pink As above Approx 20 $4.10 'Pink Spires' – (Pink Vervain) Verbena hastata, As above but white As above Approx 20 $4.10 'White Spires' – (White Vervain) Veronica This plant forms a low rosette of wide leaves with straight stems of Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Surface sow onto moist Approx 20 $5.10 gentianoides ice blue veined flowers which are produced over a long period from seed compost. Do not cover seeds, simply press into the soil. ‘Ramona’- late spring and throughout summer. It has a compact habit which Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain (Veronica) allows it to be used in tubs, pots and the front of the border. Cut humidity. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep moist by watering from back any spent flowers to encourage more flowers and also good the bottom of the tray only. Germination takes 4-6 weeks growth the following year. Ensure that you water regularly during dry approx. After germination admit air and grow on in cooler spells, and to give the plan a bit of pep, add extra phosphorus to conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle encourage root development. The plant likes full sun but can also to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after tolerate partial shade, and likes rich, moist, well-drained soil but will danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowings should be tolerate any soil which is not too dry, in full sun or partial shade. planted out the following spring. When top growth is killed by frost, cut stems back to 3-5cm above the soil line. Veronica gentianoides is easily divided in fall or early spring, and is evergreen in mild winter regions. It can be propagated by seed or by division of congested clumps every 3 years. Veronica longifolia, Veronica longifolia, 'Alba' forms a bushy, upright plant of shiny green Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Surface sow onto moist Approx. 4 $4.10 'Alba' – (White leaves. The vigorous vertical stems hold tall, slender white spires seed compost. Do not cover seeds, simply press into the soil. veronica) which are packed with masses of densely grouped, small buds, the Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain flowers open, one after the other, from the base to form a long- humidity. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep moist by watering from lasting spire. the bottom of the tray only. Germination takes 4-6 weeks Veronica longifolia prefers a position in sun or part shade in moist approx. After germination admit air and grow on in cooler well-drained soil, however it will tolerate drier soils, so long as it is conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle mulched. It flowers in midsummer and lasts for several months into to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after autumn. It adds a gentle columnar, architectural height to the border danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowings should be and is an excellent contrast to more traditional flower shapes when planted out the following spring. grown at the front of the border. It is eye-catching when planted in drifts. It is attractive to bees, and butterflies and makes a good cut flower. Veronica longifolia, Veronica longifolia, 'Blue Shades' forms a bushy, upright plant of Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Surface sow onto moist Approx. 4 $4.10

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

'Blue Shades' – (Blue shiny green leaves. The vigorous vertical stems hold tall, slender blue seed compost. Do not cover seeds, simply press into the soil. veronica) spires which are packed with masses of densely grouped, small buds, Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain the flowers open, one after the other, from the base to form a long- humidity. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep moist by watering from lasting spire. the bottom of the tray only. Germination takes 4-6 weeks Veronica longifolia prefers a position in sun or part shade in moist approx. After germination admit air and grow on in cooler well-drained soil, however it will tolerate drier soils, so long as it is conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle mulched. It flowers in midsummer and lasts for several months into to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after autumn. It adds a gentle columnar, architectural height to the border danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowings should be and is an excellent contrast to more traditional flower shapes when planted out the following spring. grown at the front of the border. It is eye-catching when planted in drifts. It is attractive to bees, and butterflies and makes a good cut flower. Veronica longifolia, Veronica longifolia, 'Pink Shades' forms a bushy, upright plant of Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Surface sow onto moist Approx. 35 $4.10 'Pink Shades' – (Pink shiny green leaves. The vigorous vertical stems hold tall, slender blue seed compost. Do not cover seeds, simply press into the soil. Veronica) spires which are packed with masses of densely grouped, small buds, Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain the flowers open, one after the other, from the base to form a long- humidity. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep moist by watering from lasting spire. the bottom of the tray only. Germination takes 4-6 weeks Veronica longifolia prefers a position in sun or part shade in moist approx. After germination admit air and grow on in cooler well-drained soil, however it will tolerate drier soils, so long as it is conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle mulched. It flowers in midsummer and lasts for several months into to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after autumn. It adds a gentle columnar, architectural height to the border danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowings should be and is an excellent contrast to more traditional flower shapes when planted out the following spring. grown at the front of the border. It is eye-catching when planted in drifts. It is attractive to bees, and butterflies and makes a good cut flower. Veronica spicata This plant is a beautiful one for use as edging for borders, but also Start seed indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Keep at 15- Approx. 4 $4.10 ‘Alba’ makes a very good container plant. It is a low, compact, clump 21 deg C. Press the seeds into the soil. Do not cover as light is forming plant which has spikes of 30cm white flowers which are needed for germination. Keep the soil moist until germination produced all summer long . It is a good cut flower and is attractive to begins. bees and butterflies. It can be divided in spring or autumn. It is Transplant outdoors after frost danger has passed spacing happiest in full sun, but will tolerate part shade. It is heat and them 25 cm apart. Veronica seeds can be sown directly drought tolerant once established. outdoors as well. Prepare a seedbed of loosened soil that is weed free. Once frost danger has passed, sow the Veronica seed into the seedbed, pressing the seeds in tightly. Keep moist until germination. Veronica spicata This plant is a beautiful one for use as edging for borders, but also As above Approx 4 $4.10 ‘Coerulea’ makes a very good container plant. It is a low, compact, clump forming plant which has spikes of 30cm deep blue flowers which are produced all summer long . It is a good cut flower and is attractive to bees and butterflies. It can be divided in spring or autumn. It is

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

happiest in full sun, but will tolerate part shade. It is heat and drought tolerant once established. Veronica teucrium This plant forms a nice mound of foliage from which arise long spires Sow seeds thinly in pots or trays on moist seed raising mix. Just press Approx. 30 $4.10 of lush cobalt blue spires in late spring and summer. It was awarded the seeds into the mix and don’t cover them as light is need for a Royal Horticultural Award of garden Merit germination. Keep at ideally 20 deg C and keep moist.Germination usually takes 3-4 weeks. Keep in cooler conditions once germinated. Veroncastrum This plant produces masses of cream to white spires which can also For best results, sow seeds as soon as they are received, but also can Approx. 100 $4.10 virginicum occasionally be blue or lavender. It is a great garden subject for the be sown at any time. Sow in pots or trays. Sow onto a good seed middle to back of the border. raising mix. Do not cover seeds, they are extremely fine and need light for germination. Keep at 20 deg C. Keep moist but don’t waterlog. If there is no germination within 3-4 weeks put the pot into a plastic bag, together with a tag which has the date of entry, seal it , and leave in the door or vege compartment of the fridge for 4.10 weeks. Then take out of fridge and keep at 18-20 deg C. in a light position. Zinnia elegans This is the premium zinnia. It is recommended by the Association of For best results sow zinnia where they are to flower (they like Approx 20 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant Mix’ Specialty Cut Flower Growers. These plants are vigorous all-season a sunny, sheltered position and don’t like to be moved) from producers which hold hold up well in summer rain and heat. the the end of October to the end of November when the soil is blooms are densely petalled and can reach up to 15 cm across. They warming up. Sow 3mm deep in drills 30cm apart into well are very long lasting cut flowers in bouquets. Colors include: deep prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Water red, orange, carmine rose, coral, wine, purple, bright pink, white, regularly. Germination takes 7-14 days. When large enough to salmon rose, scarlet, and golden yellow. handle thin to 25cm spacing. They can also be sown indoors Sep-Oct into seed compost at temp. 15-25°C. Do not exclude light. When large enough to handle transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise 10-15 days and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Zinnia elegans As above and bright candy Pink As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant bright Pink’ Zinnia elegans The 'Benary Giant' strain is the premium zinnia. It is recommended As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant Deep by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. These plants are Red’ vigorous all-season producers which hold hold up well in summer rain and heat. the blooms are densely petaled and can reach up to 15 cm across. They are very long lasting cut flowers in bouquets. This zinnia has beautiful deep red flowers. Zinnia elegans The 'Benary Giant' strain is the premium zinnia. It is recommended As above Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. These plants are Purple’ vigorous all-season producers which hold hold up well in summer rain and heat. the blooms are densely petaled and can reach up to 15 cm across. They are very long lasting cut flowers in bouquets. This

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

zinnia has luscious deep purple flowers. Zinnia elegans As above but salmon rose Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant Salmon Rose’ Zinnia elegans As above but golden yellow Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Golden Yellow’ Zinnia elegans As above but lilac Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant Lilac’ Zinnia elegans As above but lime Approx 30 $4.10 ‘Benary Giant Lime’ Zinnia elegans The breeders here have concentrated on enlarging the central dome As above Approx. 30 $4.10 ‘Cupcake Mix’ of the flower, producing an endearing flower which has small outer petals and a dome shape , a little like a cupcake. The mix has warm bright colours. Zinnia elegans ‘Giant This mix has a choice blend of warm-toned blooms, each boasting For best results sow zinnia where they are to flower (they like Approx. 4 $4.10 Cactus Flowered masses of long, needle-thin petals with fascinating texture and long- a sunny, sheltered position and don’t like to be moved) from mix’ lasting colour. As easy to grow as the more familiar Dahlia-flowered the end of October to the end of November when the soil is Zinnia. The blooms are fully double and stretch 10 to 12 cm across. warming up. Sow 3mm deep in drills 30cm apart into well Yet despite their massive size, they won't flop -- the long, strong prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Water stems are especially sturdy, keeping these blooms turned toward the regularly. Germination takes 7-14 days. When large enough to sun in the garden or as cut flowers. There are many shades of handle thin to 25cm spacing. colours in this mix of yellow, orange, red, rose, pink, salmon, and They can also be sown indoors Sep-Oct into seed compost at white. temp. 15-25°C. Do not exclude light. When large enough to handle transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise 10-15 days and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Zinnia elegans ‘Giant This Zinnia has large quilled white flowers with masses of long, For best results sow zinnia where they are to flower (they like Approx 4 $4.10 Cactus White’ needle-thin petals with fascinating texture . It is an annual, and is as a sunny, sheltered position and don’t like to be moved) from easy to grow as the more familiar Dahlia-flowered Zinnia. The blooms the end of October to the end of November when the soil is are fully double and stretch 10 to 12 cm across. Yet despite their warming up. Sow 3mm deep in drills 30cm apart into well massive size, they won't flop -- the long, strong stems are especially prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Water sturdy, keeping these blooms turned toward the sun in the garden or regularly. Germination takes 7-14 days. When large enough to as cut flowers. These plants reach 75cm tall and 30 cms wide, and handle thin to 25cm spacing. begin flowering as soon as the summer weather arrives. They thrive They can also be sown indoors Sep-Oct into seed compost at in the blazing heat, asking only well-drained soil and adequate water temp. 15-25°C. Do not exclude light. When large enough to to keep them dazzling for months. Zinnias are one of the easiest handle transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. annuals to grow, and attract butterflies to the garden. They are Acclimatise 10-15 days and plant out after danger of frost has outstanding in beds, borders, and containers, and are the perfect cut passed. flower--the more you cut, the more you get! They thrive in the sun

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

and heat of summer, and ask only well-drained soil. Zinnia elegans ‘Inca’ Zinnia Inca has bright orange,fully double cactus flowers. The large For best results sow zinnia where they are to flower (they like Approx 30 $4.10 flowers are 12 cm across, an twist and curl inwards catching the sun. a sunny, sheltered position and don’t like to be moved) from The plant grows to approx 1 metre tall and forms a robust bushy the end of October to the end of November when the soil is plant. It is an excellent flower for the cut flower bouquet and also as warming up. Sow 3mm deep in drills 30cm apart into well a reliable and eye catching, and all are good garden subjects. prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Water regularly. Germination takes 7-14 days. When large enough to handle thin to 25cm spacing. They can also be sown indoors Sep-Oct into seed compost at temp. 15-25°C. Do not exclude light. When large enough to handle transplant and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise 10-15 days and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Zinnia elegans ‘Jim This is a selection from the great Oregon plant breeder . The mix has As above Approx. 30 $4.10 Baggett’s Choice many different forms and shades of zinnia. Some are quilled and Mix’ shaded with different colours, and all are beautiful. Zinnia elegans This Zinnia has mostly double and semi- double flowers which are a As above Approx 30 $5.10 ‘Queen Lime with new colour in the zinnia. The petals are a pale lime green with a Blush’ tinge of pink. It is an annual , and is as easy to grow as the more familiar Dahlia- flowered Zinnia. These plants reach 75cm tall and 30 cms wide, and begin flowering as soon as the summer weather arrives. They thrive in the blazing heat, asking only well-drained soil and adequate water to keep them dazzling for months. Zinnias are one of the easiest annuals to grow, and attract butterflies to the garden. They are outstanding in beds, borders, and containers, and are the perfect cut flower–the more you cut, the more you get! They thrive in the sun and heat of summer, and ask only well-drained soil.

Zinnia elegans This Zinnia has flowers which are very unusual and beautiful. The For best results sow zinnia where they are to flower (they like Approx 30 $5.10 ‘Queen Red Lime’ outer petals of the fully double flowers are pale red fading to lime a sunny, sheltered position and don’t like to be moved) from green towards the centre of the bloom and with a deep maroon the end of October to the end of November when the soil is centre. It is an annual, and is as easy to grow as the more familiar warming up. Sow 3mm deep in drills 30cm apart into well Dahlia-flowered Zinnia. These plants reach 75cm tall and 30 cms prepared soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. Water wide, and begin flowering as soon as the summer weather arrives. regularly. Germination takes 7-14 days. When large enough to They thrive in the blazing heat, asking only well-drained soil and handle thin to 25cm spacing. adequate water to keep them dazzling for months. Zinnias are one of They can also be sown indoors Sep-Oct into seed raising mix the easiest annuals to grow, and attract butterflies to the garden at temp. 15-25°C. Use cell pots for easier transplanting. Cover

Owairaka Seeds – www.owairakaseeds.co.nz

They are outstanding in beds, borders, and containers, and are the finely with mix. When large enough to handle transplant and perfect cut flower--the more you cut, the more you get! They thrive grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise 10-15 days and in the sun and heat of summer, and ask only well-drained soil. plant out after danger of frost has passed. Zinnia elegans As above but with orange petals fading to lime green. As above Approx 30 $5.10 ‘Queen Lime Orange Zinnia elegans This is an unusual and very attractive double flowered zinnia . It has As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Peppermint Stick’ flowers in warm shades which are streaked and splashed with colour. Zinnia haageana This is a small prolific flowering plant which covers itself in flowers as above Approx. 40 $4.10 ‘Aztec Sunset Mix’ throughout the summer. The mix contains quiet, warm shades of burgundy beige cream and gold . Zinnia haageana This mix has very pretty fully-double and semi-double blooms about As above Approx 40 $4.10 ‘Jazzy Mix’ 5cm in size. the colour shades are bright but earthy and they add a special difference to flower collections. The flowers are bicolor in shades of burgundy red, red, yellow, and orange with cream, red, or yellow tips.

Plants

These plants are the result of our germination trials. We usually only have a few of one type available. Plants are generally in 10 cm pots , and are generally $5 each. Please visit the P –Plants- P page on the website at https://www.owairakaseeds.co.nz for the plants .