A traditional cottage garden favourite, Aquilegia or Columbine is a hardy perennial available in a wide range of colours and flower types from fluffy doubles to long spurred hybrids like ‘McKana Long Spurred Hybrids‘.
When to Sow
Seeds should be sown undercover between February and July.
Where to Sow
Aquilegia can handle full sun, but do not like heat with dry soil.
How to Sow
Sow into a tray of Gro-Sure Seed & Cutting Compost and keep at around 10-15C (50-60F).
Pot on small plants once established and gradually acclimatise to outside conditions over 2-3 weeks.
Plant out once danger of frost has passed.
Plants will flower in the early summer between May and July and will self-seed easily, creating a natural effect.
Care
Pinch off each old flower but after the petals have begun wilting. Remove entire bus. Pinch back dead flowers once or twice a week during flowering season.
Cut back after flowers to half their height after they have completed their full bloom cycle.