Cichorium Intybus Electric Blue - Thompson & Morgan - 26305
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This guide is for gardeners looking to add vibrant, electric blue blooms to their cottage-style gardens. The key benefit is the striking visual impact of its unique flowers throughout the summer. A caveat to note is that the flowers tend to close by midday. Cichorium Intybus 'Electric Blue' is a hardy perennial that produces numerous thin, airy stems topped with eye-catching blue flowers, making it a standout in beds and borders. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, reaching heights of up to 120cm.
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| Model Part Number | 26305 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to sow Cichorium Intybus 'Electric Blue' seeds?
You can sow seeds from March to May for summer flowering in the current year. For flowering the following year, sow between August and September.
How far apart should I space the plants?
Thin seedlings to stand 30cm (12in) apart once they are large enough to handle.
What are the ideal growing conditions?
This plant thrives in full sun and requires fertile, well-drained soil. Regular watering is important, particularly in dry weather.
Why do the flowers close so early?
The flowers of Cichorium Intybus 'Electric Blue' are heliotropic and naturally tend to close by midday. They are best enjoyed in the morning.
What is the mature height and spread of this plant?
The plant typically reaches a height of up to 120cm and a spread of up to 60cm.
Is this plant suitable for containers?
Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided they offer good drainage and are placed in a sunny location.
How many seeds are in a packet?
Each packet contains approximately 300 Cichorium seeds.
Can this plant cause any adverse reactions?
Yes, it can be an irritant to skin and eyes. It is advisable to wear gloves and eye protection when handling.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth and the soil is kept consistently moist. Check that the sowing period is appropriate for your climate.
Plants are weak or leggy
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight (full sun is required) and that it is not overcrowded. Thin seedlings properly to provide enough space.
Flowers are not opening
Cichorium Intybus 'Electric Blue' flowers naturally close by midday. Ensure the plant is healthy and receiving adequate sun, which helps promote flowering.
Skin or eye irritation after handling
Wear gloves and eye protection when handling seeds and young plants. Wash hands thoroughly after gardening.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Produces uniquely vibrant electric blue flowers.
- Hardy perennial nature means it returns each year.
- Adds significant visual impact with its height and airy structure.
- Suitable for classic cottage garden aesthetics.
- Long summer flowering period.
Cons
- Flowers close by midday, limiting viewing time.
- Can be an irritant to skin and eyes, requiring careful handling.
- Requires full sun for best performance.
- Needs well-drained, fertile soil.
- May require thinning of seedlings.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing: Sow seeds thinly from March to May, 3mm (1/8in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart. Ensure the soil is well-cultivated and raked to a fine tilth. For early summer flowering the following year, sow directly into the soil between August and September.
Thinning: Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to stand 30cm (12in) apart to allow for proper growth.
Soil & Position: For best results, plant in fertile, well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods.
Compatibility: This plant is a hardy perennial and is generally compatible with most garden plants in similar sunny, well-drained conditions. Avoid areas with waterlogged soil.
Care: Minimal care is required once established, primarily watering during dry spells and deadheading if desired, though the primary feature is its morning bloom. Be cautious when handling due to its potential to irritate skin and eyes; gloves are recommended.
Height & Spread: Expect plants to reach a height of up to 120cm with a spread of up to 60cm.