How to Sow Welldales Statice Rainbow Mix Seeds
Welldales Statice Rainbow Mix is a vibrant and versatile flower that offers stunning colours throughout the summer. Known for its ability to thrive in sunny, well-drained locations, Statice is a fantastic addition to any garden, patio, or even windowsills. Its bright blooms are perfect for fresh cut flowers and, most famously, dried flower arrangements. This hardy annual is not only easy to grow but also provides long-lasting visual interest from early summer through autumn. By following the steps below, you can ensure a beautiful, long-lasting display of rainbow coloured statice in your garden.
When to Sow Statice Rainbow Mix Seeds Indoors or Outdoors
- Indoors: Start sowing your Statice Rainbow Mix seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, around February to March, for an earlier bloom. This method gives the seeds time to germinate and ensures strong, healthy seedlings ready for transplanting.
- Outdoors: Direct sowing outdoors is best after the last frost has passed, typically in late spring. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil to give your plants the best chance to thrive.
Growing Mixed Statice Indoors or in a Propagator
- Sowing Depth: Sow Statice seeds at a shallow depth of ¼ inch (6mm) and cover lightly with soil or compost.
- Temperature: For best results, maintain a consistent temperature of 20-24°C during germination. Using a propagator helps keep conditions optimal during cooler months.
- Germination Time: Expect seeds to germinate within 15-20 days. Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging to ensure healthy seedlings.
- Hardening: Once the seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, harden them off by placing them outside for increasing periods of time before transplanting to the garden.
Sowing Statice Seeds Outdoors
- Sowing Depth: Sow directly into the soil at a depth of ¼ inch (6mm) once the risk of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space the seeds 12-18 inches (30-45cm) apart to give plants room to grow and spread.
- Soil: Statice thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils enriched with organic compost. Full sun exposure is essential for the best results.
UK Aftercare for Statice Plants
- Watering: Statice is drought-tolerant once established. Water only when the soil becomes dry, as overwatering can lead to root rot. It’s a low-maintenance plant, perfect for beginner gardeners.
- Deadheading: Regularly deadhead spent blooms to prolong the flowering period and encourage new growth throughout the summer.
- Fertilising: A balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season will help promote vigorous growth and long-lasting blooms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Welldales Statice Rainbow Mix Seeds
1. Is Statice an Annual or Perennial in the UK?
Statice Limonium Sinuatum is typically grown as an annual in the UK. Although it is a perennial in warmer climates, the colder UK winters mean it is usually replanted each year.
2. Can Statice Be Grown in Containers?
Yes, Statice grows beautifully in containers and pots, making it a great choice for patios, balconies, and windowsills. Just ensure the container has good drainage and is placed in full sun.
3. How Long Does Statice Take to Grow from Seed?
Statice seeds will germinate in 15-20 days. You can expect blooms to appear around 10-12 weeks after sowing, depending on growing conditions.
4. How Do I Harvest Statice for Dried Flowers?
Harvest the blooms when they are fully open. Hang the flowers upside down in a warm, dry place, away from direct sunlight. They will retain their colour and shape, making them perfect for ‘everlasting’ floral arrangements.
5. What Kind of Soil is Best for Statice?
Statice thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It can tolerate poorer soils but will bloom best with the addition of organic matter such as compost.
6. Can Statice Survive in Coastal Gardens?
Yes, Statice is a fantastic choice for coastal gardens due to its salt tolerance and ability to withstand windy conditions. It’s perfect for exposed locations where other plants may struggle.
