Thompson & Morgan Heliotrope Dwarf Marine - 1 Seed Packet

The contrast between the dark green foliage and large royal purple flowers is stunning and will lo...

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This guide is for gardeners looking to cultivate beautiful Heliotrope plants, specifically the 'Dwarf Marine' variety. The key benefit is enjoying the stunning contrast of dark green foliage and royal purple flowers, and the sweet evening scent. Note that successful germination requires specific temperature conditions and proper soil drainage.

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Model Part Number24175
BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

How deep should I plant the seeds?

Sow seeds 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good, free-draining seed compost.

What is the ideal temperature for germination?

The ideal temperature is 20-25°C (70-75°F).

When should I transplant the seedlings?

Transplant when the seedlings are large enough to handle, usually into 7.5cm (3in) pots.

How far apart should I plant them?

Plant them 30cm (12in) apart in a sunny, sheltered spot.

How do I make the plants bushier?

When the plants are 10-13cm (4-5in) tall, pinch out the growing point and repeat when side shoots reach the same length.

What kind of soil do they need?

They need light, well-drained soil.

Can they grow in pots?

Yes, they are suitable for planting in pots, beds, and borders.

When is the best time to sow seeds?

Sow in late winter/early spring (February to March).

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure the correct temperature (20-25°C/70-75°F) and maintain consistent moisture in the seed compost. Consider lowering the temperature slightly at night.

Poor growth after transplanting

Make sure plants are properly acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out and ensure they are planted in a sunny, sheltered spot.

Yellowing leaves

Check soil drainage. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure soil drains well and adjust watering accordingly.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Visually appealing with striking colors and foliage.
  • Offers a delightful fragrance, particularly in the evening.
  • Versatile for various planting locations.
  • Relatively easy to grow from seeds.
  • Provides a long-lasting display throughout the summer months.

Cons

  • Requires specific temperature conditions for germination.
  • Needs well-drained soil to prevent issues.
  • Being a half-hardy annual, it may not survive harsh winters.
  • Requires some preparation for transplanting.
  • Germination can take 14-21 days, requiring patience.
  • Results may vary based on growing conditions.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

  1. Sowing Seeds: Sow seeds in late winter/early spring (February to March) 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in a good, free-draining seed compost.
  2. Germination: Maintain a moist but not over-wet environment. Germination typically takes 14-21 days at 20-25°C (70-75°F). Lowering the temperature at night can aid germination.
  3. Transplanting: Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots. Grow in cooler conditions.
  4. Pinching: When plants are 10-13cm (4-5in) tall, pinch out the growing point and repeat when side shoots reach the same length to make them bushy.
  5. Acclimatization: Gradually acclimatize to outdoor conditions before planting out.
  6. Planting Out: Plant after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart in a sunny, sheltered spot with light, well-drained soil.