Dianthus barbatus Super Duplex Mix

Common name: Sweet William

Untreated seed; this variety is packed by volume so all pack quantities are approximate. Available in two pack sizes: 

Gardener packet 450 seeds; Grower packet 2250 seeds.

Biennial. Requires a period of vernalisation (overwintering) to produce flowers.

Sweet Williams are sweetly scented flowers; they bloom in a range of colours from white and pastels through to ruby red. A staple of cottage gardens, these are also long-lasting cut flowers in the vase. Super Duplex Mix has long stems and is one of the best biennial varieties for cut flower production.

Depending on location, sow April-June; biennial varieties should be sown by midsummer to ensure a good show of flowers in the following season. Sow at 18-21°C; do not cover when sowing as light will aid germination which should take 14-21 days in optimum conditions. Plant out from mid to late summer; plants need to develop a robust root system before the onset of winter, and flowering will occur through May-June in the following year. May overwinter in subsequent years in a milder climate.

Cut when 10-25% of flowers on the head are open. Strip the lower leaves and place straight into shallow water; stems may require bunching to prevent bending whilst hydrating. 

Vase life: 10-14 days