SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and firm lightly; requires light to germinate.
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Keep at 70-75°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow at last frost date.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
Once nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Strawflower charms all with its rustling ruffs of papery bracts that expand around golden pollen-filled centers. This everlasting flower has handsome dark green leaves and is a heat-tolerant addition to well-drained soils in the mid-border and cutting gardens. Pinch when setting out or at 1' tall for increased branching and deadhead for neatness and continuing blooms. The blooms close at night and should be cut as the buds begin to open, as they continue to open in the vase, and as they dry. Remove foliage and hang upside down until dry. Wire can be used to hold the dry flower if it separates from the stem.
Watering Details:
1" per week; drought tolerant once established.
Fertilizer:
Mix in a couple of inches of compost prior to planting, and sidedress with organic flower fertilizer in midsummer.
Diseases & Pests:
No major problems, however aster yellows virus can show up when leafhopper pressure is evident. Pull up and discard plants with stunted, irregular growth and yellowing foliage
When to Cut for Bouquets:
1/4 open. Harvest midmorning and test to see that the stem holds the blooms firmly upright before cutting.
