The Gardeners Almanac

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Clarkia


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Week Numbers

Compost

Fertiliser

Heating

Planting Out

Watering

Clarkia pulchella
Overview:

Clarkia pulchella is an easy to grow hardy annual, that grows to around 400-500mm (15"- 18") high.

Its ease of growing makes it a useful subject for introducing children to flower growing.

The many flowers in shades of pink through to purple appear from late June to October.


Cultivation:
Week 15:

Sow seeds in trays of seed compost and germinate at a temperature 10°-12°C (50°-54°F)

Germination should take four or five days.


Week 17:

Prick out seedlings into cell trays or boxes of potting compost 50mm (2") apart, then place in a cold frame to harden off.


Week 20:

Plant out 300mm (12") apart in full sun and reasonably fertile, well-drained soil.

Planting in groups rather than in rows tends to give a more pleasing display.

Avoid excessive feeding as this encourages leaf growth at the expense of flowers.