Description: Think of Maltese Cross as a bold anchor in the early summer garden, proudly displaying vivid-red blooms atop long stems and looking particularly sharp when planted in small groups. Very winter hardy.
Organically Grown/ Heirloom/ Open Pollinated/ Non-GMO
Pack Size: 50 seeds
Latin Name: Lychnis chalcedonica
Alternative Names:
Main Uses: Ornamental, naturescape
Zone Hardiness: Zone 2 perennial
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 90 - 120 cm (36 - 48 inches)
Flower Colour: Red
Flowering Time: Early through late summer
Seed Source: Organically grown
Germination: 14 - 21 days at 21ºC.
Indoors: 3 - 5 seeds per plug, 6 - 8 weeks before average last frost date. Starting this perennial indoors will increase the likelihood of flowers in the first season. Use biodegradable starter pots for easiest transplanting.
Planting out: Plant in loose, fertile soil once all chance of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: Maltese Cross can be direct-seeded to the garden in late May, but plants are not likely to flower in their first season.
Planting depth: Surface, lightly pressed into the soil.
Spacing: Space transplants 12" apart.
Growing in Containers: Grows very well in larger containers and raised beds, although winter hardiness may be impacted.
Growing in Mixed Planters: Not well suited to mixed planters.
Fertilizing (Containers): Plant in a quality, well-draining organic-based potting mix. Feed regularly with organic fertilizer. An organic bloom-booster fertilizer at first onset of buds will encourage larger blooms and more abundant flowering.
Watering (Containers): Water containers deeply when top inch feels dry to the touch. Monitor pots every day or two during very hot weather.
Fertilizing (Garden): Plant in average garden soil, amended with compost on an annual basis. No additional fertilizing required.
Watering (Garden): Water deeply to establish. Water mature plants weekly during hot weather.
Beneficials Attracted to this Plant: Many butterflies as well as bees love to feed on the nectar of Maltese Cross flowers.
Notes: Deadhead flowers to promote tidy re-blooming.
Suitability for Indoors: Not suited for indoors.
Sustainability
All seeds offered at Sage Garden are from certified organic growers
How to get one?
Seeds can easily be ordered online for local pickup or shipping, or purchased in-store. If no "add to cart" button is visible, it means this item is currently out of stock.
Shipping?
Seeds can be shipped anywhere in Canada. Please choose "local pickup" or "shipping" at checkout.