Empress Rocket Candytuft Seeds

• HOW TO GROW
• FAST FACTS
• REVIEWS

Sowing: Direct sow in fall for the earliest blooms, or after the last spring frost for early summer bloom. Plant more every several weeks for continuous flowers. Though these plants do not respond well to transplanting, they can also be started indoors in peat pots; sow just below the surface of the soil, keeping it evenly moist and at a temperature of 65-70 degrees F. Germination usually occurs within 15-20 days.

Growing: Keep these plants well watered but not soggy; they can tolerate short periods of drought, and grow best in well drained soil. They also grow well in poor or sandy soil. Though they do not grow well in shade, they also prefer cooler temperatures and may die back in the heat of summer. They develop quickly, blooming 5-6 weeks after germination. Deadhead regularly for prolonged blooming; after flowering has finished, cut the foliage back by one third unless saving the seed. Though this plant will self-seed in good conditions, it does not become weedy. These flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Harvesting: For fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and place them in water immediately; strip the leaves that will fall below the water.

Seed Saving: After the flowers fade, a papery tan seedhead will form; the ripe seeds will be flattened brown ovals. Shake the ripe heads over a container to remove the seed. Store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.

Latin Name: Iberis amara

Species Origin: Southern Europe

Type: Garden Flowers

Life Cycle: Annual

USDA Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast

Seeds per Ounce: 11,300

Stratification: No Stratification

Germination Ease: No Stratification

Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun

Height: 14 Inches

Color: White

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer

Uses: Cut Flowers