Sweet William, Barcelona Red (Organic)
Dianthus barbatus. 60 days.
Deep, velvety red, 1” flowers grow in slightly dome-shaped clusters that reach 4” across. Petals feature two similar shades of red, providing a depth of color to Barcelona Red that feels like there is something beyond human perception (or at least beyond this human’s perception anyway!). Unlike other varieties of this species that require vernalization, Barcelona Red flowers prolifically in its first year, starting early and often going late into fall. Plants have a short stature, growing to 24” tall, with strong stems and exceptional vase life. May overwinter in zones 6-8 to bloom in subsequent years, but best grown as an annual.
Sow indoors up to 8 – 10 weeks before last frost for early summer blooms, or as late as June for flowers later in the season. Transplant to 12” centers. Annual that grows well in full sun to part shade. Deadhead to prolong bloom and limit self-seeding.
Seed Saving
Collect seeds from seed heads that are fully dry. Thresh by hand; winnow or screen to clean. Some cross-pollination may occur; if saving seeds, isolate from other varieties of the same species by 1/4 mile.
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