Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Axminster Streaked’ (Balloon Flower) [20 Seeds]

Germination Information: I recommend these seeds for experienced seed-sowers only, because they require patience as well as some special attention after planting.

Sow in pots, either indoors in late winter to late spring (in a bright spot at around 70°F) or outdoors from late spring to midsummer. Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface of moist growing medium and press them into the surface; do not bury them, and don’t let the growing medium dry out. Germination can be slow; look for some seedlings in 3 to 4 weeks, with additional sprouting possible thereafter.

Be aware that only around 30 percent of the seedlings you grow from these seeds are likely to have bicolor flowers; the rest will be solid purple-blue or white. I suggest potting up the seedlings in groups of four or five when they are about 1 inch tall, then planting them in your garden (still in their groups) when they are 2 to 3 inches tall. When they begin to bloom, keep a close eye on the plants. If you see stems that are consistently producing only solid-purple or solid-white flowers, cut them off right at the base (if you don’t want them), leaving just the stems with variegated flowers.

Once you get your ‘Axminster Streaked’ plants producing their showy flowers, I heartily encourage you to collect seeds from them (remember, only the bicolor ones!) and share them with gardening friends and seed exchanges. I don’t know of any other sources of seed for this unique strain, and it would be very sad if it got lost to cultivation.

Note that this information will not appear on the seed packet you receive.

Please read the description as well before ordering.