Oenothera biennis - Kew Pollination Seed CollectionEvening Primrose

Direct sow Oenothera seeds outdoors where they are to grow from March to June. Choose a position in full sun on well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, and lightly cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 30cm (12") apart.

Alternatively sow indoors from August to November on the surface of a good seed compost, just covering the seed with a thin layer of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal the seed tray inside a polythene bag, maintaining a temperature of 10-15C (50-60F) until after germination which usually takes 14-21 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into trays or 7.5cm (3") pots and grow on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors.

When all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise Oenothera plants to outdoor conditions prior to transplanting them outdoors in any well drained soil in full sun. Plant out at a distance of 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 £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 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.