Tickseed Coreopsis/Sea Holly Eryngium

Coreopsis Lanceolata
Hardy Perennial
Coreopsis is a constant bloomer; as blooms start to die back, there will be buds ready to open on new foliage, so you have a full season of sunny yellow flowers. A great option for cuttings whilst Coreopsis will brighten the darkest of corners.

Sow Indoors: February - March
Transplant: March - April
Flowers: April - July

Sow seeds into a tray of good quality damp compost. Place in a bright place where the temperature will not fluctuate.  Germination can take 20 - 25 days.
Once the seedlings are 7-10cm tall they can be hardened off by placing them outdoors during the day and bringing them back indoors at night. Repeat for 7 days. Transplant seedlings 45cm apart where they are to grow.
Remove faded blooms to prolong flowering and cut back in August to maintain a compact shape.
Growing height: 40cm

Sea Holly
Hardy Perennial
Ideal for hot dry conditions, Sea Holly or Eryngium produces a cone of electric blue flowers surrounded by a spiky collar. Loved by pollinators, Sea Holly is a great addition to any wildlife garden.

Sow Indoors: January - April
Transplant: April - May
Flowers: July - September

Sow indoors
Sow seeds into a pot of good quality compost and lightly cover. Position the pot in a warm sunny location and keep the compost damp to the touch but not wet. Germination 14-21 days.
Once seedlings emerge, turn the pot regularly to prevent plants from growing towards the sun. Once the risk of frost has passed, plants can be moved outdoors. Harden off by placing plants outdoors during the day and bringing them back indoors at night. Repeat this for 7 – 10 days to acclimatise the plants. Plants can then be transplanted into the final position in beds or containers.
Growing height: 90cm