Strawflower – Monstrosum (Helichrysum Bracteatum Monstrosum) - Strawflowers Mix Organic Flower

Strawflower – Monstrosum (Helichrysum Bracteatum Monstrosum) -  Strawflowers Mix Organic Flower

Annual

Height: 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm)

Fireball strawflowers (Xerochrysum bracteatum) have an upright, bushy growth habit with vibrant, colourful blooms, making them an attractive addition to gardens, especially for cut flower arrangements. The plants may spread out a bit, but they generally stay compact and manageable.

Purple, yellow, Crimson, Salmon, Rose, Brown, Yellow, White. 

• Full sun to part shade
• Start indoors; sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost, sow seeds on the surface of the soil as they need light to germinate. If you are growing in small cells, you may need to transplant the seedlings to 3 or 4 inch pots when seedlings have at least 2 pairs of true leaves before transplanting to the garden so they have enough room to develop strong roots. Water from below or use a mister to avoid disturbing the seeds. When seedlings emerge, provide plenty of light on a sunny windowsill or grow seedlings 3-4 inches beneath fluorescent plant lights turned on 16 hours per day - off for 8 hours at night. Most plants require a dark period to grow, do not leave lights on for 24 hours. Raise the lights as the plants grow taller. Incandescent bulbs will not work for this process because they will get too hot. Only transplant to outdoors when the night time temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
• Before planting in the garden, seedling plants need to be “hardened off”. Accustomize the young plants to outdoor conditions by moving them to a sheltered place outside for a week. Be sure to protect them from wind and hot sun at first. If frost threatens at night, cover or bring containers indoors, then take them out again in the morning. This hardening off process toughens the plant’s cell structure and reduces transplant shock and scalding.
• OR direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed; plant into well draining soil; seeds should sprout in 5-20 days; spacing 30-45cm (12-18 in) apart.
• excellent for containers
• Deer resistant
• Attracts bees
• Seed Count: 30