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Pictorial Sweet Pea Old Spice Queen of the Isles

£2.50 incl. VAT

This beloved heirloom, cherished since 1885, stands as an annual gem, reaching a majestic height of 6 feet and spreading its charm 3 feet wide in full sun. The distinct crimson and white hues of this timeless variety are surpassed only by the captivating, old-fashioned spicy fragrance that harks back to antique varieties. Not just a visual delight, its intense fragrance sets it apart, making it a hardy and enduring choice in gardens. Renowned for its resilience in the face of heat, this plant is not only visually stunning but also robust. Moreover, it doubles as a beautiful cut flower, adding a touch of elegance to any arrangement. A garden treasure that transcends time, bringing joy and fragrance to gardens even today.

10 seeds per packet. September sowings in flowering site 2cm (3.4″) deep. Later sowings in pots 5 seeds in each. October and November sowings in a cold frame. January sowings in a heated glasshouse. March sowings in a cold frame. April sowings direct to flowering site.

Approximately 18-20 Seeds

In stock

Useful Information

Sowing & Growing

For optimal results, sow seeds indoors between January and March or in September and October. Plant them 1.5cm (½”) deep, with 5 seeds per 12cm (5″) pot of compost. Ensure a thorough watering and place the pots in a cold frame, greenhouse, or on a cool windowsill, maintaining an ideal temperature of 15°C. Keep the soil consistently moist, and anticipate seedlings to emerge within 12-21 days. Once two pairs of leaves have formed, promote bushy growth by pinching out the growing tip.

Gradually introduce young plants to outdoor conditions, avoiding frosts, before transplanting them into well-drained soil from March to May, spacing them 30cm (12″) apart. Provide support with tall canes or netting. Alternatively, for a more straightforward approach, sow seeds directly outdoors between April and May. Plant them 1.5cm (½”) deep in finely-prepared, well-drained soil, already watered. Sow 2 seeds together every 30cm (12″), and remove the weaker seedling for transplantation. Seeds sown in autumn typically result in earlier flowering the following year, with blooms appearing from May to October. Regularly pick the flowers to extend the flowering season.

Additional information

Packet Size

Approximately 18-20 Seeds

Hardiness & Lifecycle

Hardy Annual