Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens' (National Trust)Honeywort

Sow Cerinthe indoors from February to May. Sow seed in a good quality compost at a depth of 1.5mm (1/16"), and cover with a light sprinkling of vermiculite. Place the seed tray in a propagator at a temperature of 18-20C (64-68F) or seal it inside a polythene bag. Keep the soil damp but not wet. Do not exclude light as this aids germination which usually takes 5-21 days.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7cm (3") pots and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors. When Cerinthe plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed, acclimatise them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Transplant outdoors in full sun in any moist, well drained soil at a distance of 30cm (12") apart.

Alternatively, direct sow Cerinthe seeds outdoors where they are to grow from April to May (or September to October for flowers in the following year). Choose a position in full sun on well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, at a depth of 3mm (1/8"). Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 30cm (12") apart.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £4.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £6.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.