Veronica gentianoides ‘Ramona’ seeds -(Veronica)

Description

picture thanks to www.jelitto.com

This plant forms a low rosette of wide leaves with straight stems of ice blue, veined flowers which are produced over a long period from  late spring and throughout summer. It has a compact habit which allows it to be used in tubs , pots and the front of the border. It makes a good cut flower.

Cut back any spent flowers to encourage more flowers and also good growth the following year. Ensure that you water regularly during dry spells, and to give the plant a bit of pep , add extra phosphorus to encourage root development.

The plant likes full sun but can also tolerate partial shade, and likes rich, moist, well drained soil but will tolerate any soil which is not too dry, in full sun or partial shade .

When top growth is killed by frost,  cut stems back to 3-5cm above the soil line.

Veronica gentianoides is easily divided in fall or early spring, and is evergreen in mild winter regions. It can be propagated by seed or by division of congested clumps every 3 years.

Sowing advice

Sow indoors in spring or autumn. Surface sow onto moist seed compost. Do not cover seeds, simply press into the soil. Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain humidity. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Keep moist by watering from the bottom of the tray only. Germination takes 4-6 weeks approx. After germination admit air and grow on in cooler conditions. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed. Autumn sowings should be planted out the following spring.