- Start the seeds indoors from February-April or August-November.
- Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of moist seed compost and gently press in.
- Don’t cover or exclude light.
- Place in a heated propagator at 20-25c.
- Seeds will usually germinate within 14–21 days.
- Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
- Grow on in bright light and cooler conditions.
- Gradually acclimatise the plants to outdoor conditions before planting out.
- Plant out after the risk of frost has passed into their final flowering position.
- Space plants about 60cm apart.
- Water moderately during dry spells until established, but avoid waterlogging.
- Stake plants if necessary to support the flower stems.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Echinops ritro (Globe Thistle) ‘Metallic Blue’ is a hardy perennial with striking metallic blue, spherical flowers above spiky grey-green foliage. Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, or wildflower meadows, it attracts bees and butterflies.
