Sweet Williams
Surrey,
United Kingdom 
I have planted some sweet williams for next year as per the instructions on the packet. The seedlings were pricked out and put into cell trays and are doing well. However, the seed packet says plant out in final position in September/October and I want to know whether that really is the best thing to do - or would it be better to pot them on further, and keep them in an unheated greenhouse over winter? Any tips please? Thanks, M.
4 Sep, 2009
Answers
I thought that would be a better option, as if we have a proper winter, I'd be so upsetif they all died! Time to pot on I think...Thanks S.
Btw - I am also planning on planting some cornflower seeds - they are ok over winter in the coldframe aren't they? So many seeds, so little time!
5 Sep, 2009
They're annuals, though, probably, aren't they? I'd leave them until spring. Even if they are perennials, it's getting a bit late for seed sowing, I think - without a propagator, that is. What does the packet say??
5 Sep, 2009
It says sow March to May and August to October for flowers in June. I was planning to put a lid on the seed tray whilst its in the coldframe, and I would have thought that should be ok to maintain the termperature. Yes they are annuals, but it says for early flowering, plant the year before. Do you think I shouldn't bother this year?
5 Sep, 2009
I think they are meant to be sown straight into the soil, aren't they?
If the instructions say Aug - Oct, we are right in the middle! So - go for it! Why not plant half now and keep half for a spring sowing? :-)
5 Sep, 2009
Very good idea. Thanks!
6 Sep, 2009
:-)
6 Sep, 2009
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Also any details on whether it's grown from seed, tuber etc. »
I'm sure I kept mine in pots in my coldframe last year, and planted them out in early spring...mine are at the same stage as yours, and that's what I'm intending to do.
5 Sep, 2009