Patio Pastels Lavatera

ANNUAL

Summer/fall bloom.
Frost tender.

EASY TO PLANT OUTDOORS

After danger of frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in well-worked soil. Space seeds 2 inches apart, cover very lightly, gently firm soil and water carefully. Keep seedbed evenly moist. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to final spacing. For Containers: space 6 inches apart. In Garden Beds: space 14-18 inches apart.

TO START EARLY INDOORS

Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant when seedlings are several inches tall.

CONTAINER GROWING

Big framed, bushy Lavertera plants need sizable pots, 16-18 inches tall and 14-16 inches in diameter. Use fresh, moistened potting soil. Check often: in hot weather, plants may need daily watering.

GROWING NOTES

Give these bushy, 2-2 1/2 foot tall plants enough room to flower freely. Water regularly and support long blooming by feeding with an all-purpose flower fertilizer every few weeks. Lavatera’s cheerful pink and white chalice-shaped flowers attract and feed bees, butterflies and beneficial insects. They also make long-lasting bouquet flowers.