Unwins Dianthus Ideal Select Rose Seeds

Sow on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at 18-20°C. After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination takes 2-4 weeks. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm pots and grow Dianthus plants on in cooler conditions.

Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost. Plant 25cm apart on any fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Alternatively, plant in containers on a sunny patio.

Sow in well drained soil once the last frosts have passed, covering thinly with fine soil, keep moist, thin to 25cm once seedlings have three sets of leaves.

Deadhead faded blooms to keep plants blooming for longer.