SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Cover lightly with vermiculite
Seed To Bloom:
10-12 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors in pots 6-8 weeks before planting out after last frost. Keep at 55-70°F. Take extra care when thinning and transplanting as these seedlings do not like to be disturbed.
Starting Outdoors:
Recommended. Direct sow in early spring 3-4 weeks before the last frost date; fall in warm winter areas, zones 8-10.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Also known as Farewell to Spring, this native of California was described as early as 1832. An emissary from the Royal Horticultural Society collected the seeds of Clarkia on a productive trip to the Northwest, sending seeds back to England. This double-flowered variety is a beautiful frilly, cut flower and bedding plant and adds a colorful vertical accent to informal meadow plantings. While it does tolerate some drought once established, it does not like heat. Pinch back when plants reach 8" tall to encourage bushy branching growth. Self-sows.
Watering Details:
An inch per week; less is fine once established.
Soil pH:
Not particular about soil pH.
Fertilizer:
If soil is poor, mix in a few inches of compost prior to planting.
Diseases & Pests:
Susceptible to aphids and mites. Hose down plants regularly to deter or treat this problem. An insecticidal soap can also be applied. Avoid fungal problems by placing in a well-drained location with good air circulation. A preventive organic fungicide can also be used.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when lower blooms start to open. Flowering proceeds up the stem.
