Hardy annuals are the bedrock of my cutting garden.
Autumn sown plants will concentrate on forming good root systems throughout the winter and then burst into wonderful growth when the temperatures start to pick up in spring. You will get earlier, stronger and more productive plants by autumn sowing.
Also there is just something so satisfying about sowing in September/October. Knowing you have the beginnings of your cut flower garden underway so that come spring you can concentrate on the half hardy annuals and not be completely swamped by seeds!
Hardy annuals are usually sown around mid September. After the autumn equinox, (which falls around the 22nd/23rd Sept) there is more darkness than light in a 24 hour period and so the seeds aren't tempted to rush ahead and flower too fast....only to be caught out in the first frosts.
Hardy annuals can often can be sown directly where they are to grow but I personally prefer to sow into modules/seed trays, pot on as they grow and overwinter in an unheated greenhouse. That way if we do suddenly have an extremely cold or wet winter they should be safe.
This beautiful box contains 10 fabulous varieties of seeds to sow in the autumn
Contents:
Larkspur: statuesque with strong stems and beautiful flowers
Ammi Majus: exquisite, delicate clouds of white, lacy flowers
Cornflower Mix: a gorgeous mixture of different coloured cornflowers
Orlaya: beautiful white flowers with a lacy appearance
Daucus Carota Dara: long stems, feathery foliage and capped with burgundy and pink flowers
Sweet peas: fabulous to grow scrambling up a trellis or a wigwam of canes. Heavenly blooms and incredible scent
Scabious Imperial Mix: a cottage garden favourite with a long flowering season in a mix of pretty colours
Corncockle: an old-fashioned favourite. Beautiful pink flowers on straight stems
Nigella (love in a mist): is full of cottage garden vibes. Pretty as a flower and later on as a seed head too
Clary Sage: masses of deep blue, almost purple flowers. A wonderfully productive plant and great as a cut flower too
Seeds germinated within a week of sewing. Very pleased with the quality. The shop is lovely to navigate, prices are very reasonable and overall service is 100%.
I am definitely a satisfied customer and have been back and bought more seeds
I have ordered many seeds from this website, the delivery is reasonable and so are the seeds. I get fantastic germination and am no expert. I have tried other seed companies and nothing compares. This is a very safe bet and one that you won’t regret.
Completely a beginner but they have germinated after a couple of days and seedlings seem to be coming along nicely, very healthy and happy little plants … seeds came in addition to sow a long package and all beautifully presented … will be a repeat customer
I’ve made 3 orders with bishy barnabees cottage garden so far (spending between £20-30 each time) and every time the seeds have been dispatched quickly. For a small business getting my order within a week is excellent! Ive had amazing rate of germination on every species of seed I’ve sown. The young plants are all healthy and look likely to become healthy adult plants by summer. I’ve interacted with the owner on social media too and can honestly say she’s lovely!
Last year I grew lots of fantastic corncockle, but this will be the first time I've tried Bianca.
There's always so many amazing seeds/flowers to choose from at Bishybarnabees Cottage Garden. Delivered swiftly and hugely successful germination 🌱🥰🌱
Sowed the Dahlia Seeds last week - (in a suitable Pot on the Kitchen Window Sill - which serves as my greenhouse) the sturdy little Dahlia seeds were through in two days and are looking very healthy and happy! Obviously very fresh seeds in the packet.
The Sanctuary wax melts have a lovely spa fragrance that lasts for ages. Loved them so much I ordered more. I haven't tried the lemon and ginger yet. Excellent quality and service.
Beautifully packaged & illustrated. Will be planted next year and I’m confident they will germinate easily as Bishy Barnabee’s Cottage Garden Seeds are reliable.
Beautifully packaged seeds, arrived quickly and although I bought them late (early Nov) I planted them straight away and had germination in days. They are really strong healthy seedlings now. Many thanks x
First time grower of Zinnias this year and not disappointed these seeds were amazing hence why I have ordered again ready for next year.
Always arrive in quick time and regular updates on delivery.
