Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender
Sow seeds directly into well-worked garden soil in full sun once all danger of frost is past. Space seeds 3 inches apart and cover about 1/4 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist. Germination takes 7 to 10 days. When seedlings are about 3 inches tall, carefully thin them to a final spacing of 9-12 inches apart because these vigorous, tall plants need room to grow and bloom. Extra thinned seedlings can be transplanted easily.
Sow seeds several inches apart in a container of well-drained seed starting mix 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. Transplant 9-12 inches apart once weather warms up and nights are above 55° F (13° C).
These carefree, non-fussy branching plants reach 3-3 1/2 feet tall with long-lasting big blossoms and blue-green foliage. Perfect in any sunny spot for nonstop color all season long with armfuls of long stemmed flowers for big bouquets. Support the tall, hard blooming plants with stakes or flower supports. Feed and water regularly. No need to pinch plants or remove spent flowers for spectacular long bloom.
3 inches apart1/2 inch deep
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