Chinese Forget-me-nots produce masses of attractive, soft rosy pink flowers on bushy, upright plants. By flowering in late summer they are sure to bring life back to tied borders.
Sow March to Apri in pots or trays of moist seed compost and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 15-20C (59-68F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 10-21 days. Can also be sown outdoors once the soil has warmed, 3mm (1/8in) deep in drills 30cm (12 inches) apart in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. When large enough to handle, thin out seedlings to 23cm (9 inches) apart.
When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 23-30cm (9-12in) apart.
For best results, provide a well-drained soil in full sun.