Learn how to sow hardy annuals, starting with the preparation of the soil.
Sowing hardy annuals
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Rake the soil to a fine, crumbly texture. The video uses a little granular fertiliser, lightly raked in. Mark out one area per variety using a bamboo cane or a line of dry silver sand.
Scatter the seed for an informal display. Mix the seed with a little compost if that helps you spread it thinly and evenly. Lightly rake it in and label each area. Thin the seedlings to suit the variety. The video suggests around 23–30 cm between plants as a rough guide.
Sow in rows if you prefer. Make shallow drills with a cane, sow thinly and cover as directed on the packet. Rows make it easier to tell flower seedlings from weeds. Water gently after sowing.
