Strawflower ‘Silvery Rose’

Description

(Xerochrysum bracteatum)

Strawflowers are members of the daisy family and growing conditions are similar; well-suited for the sunniest spot in your garden, heat tolerant, well-drained soil and don’t require rich soil.

A cool-season hardy annual that prefers full sun. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting date or cast seeds directly in the garden. Do not cover seed; allow 7-10 days to germinate. Space 12″ apart in the garden. Grows 20″-36″ tall. Winter hardy in zone 8 and south.

Harden your transplants and place them in the garden after night temperatures reach about 16C. Alternatively, sow the seeds directly in the garden. Mother Nature will tell the seeds when to germinate.

Requires excellent air circulation to prevent mildew and other moisture-related diseases.
Harvest flowers for drying when partially opened, when 2-3 layers of petals have unfolded but flower is not fully open, as they will continue to open after picking. Collect the flowers in the evening, when they are free of dew. Harvest the central stem at almost ground level, just above the lowest three to four side shoots. Future cuts should be made at stem base.

For fresh flowers harvest when the centre is developed and the bracts, which look like petals, are almost completely unfolded.

The best way to use in crafts is to remove the stems at harvest, and use wires in their place. Attractive as potpourri additions.

Deadhead spent flowers to extend flowering period.

65 (approx.)seeds, annual, (90-100cm)tall, 75-85 days

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