How to grow annual flowers from seed

When seedlings have their first true leaves, carefully prick them out into small individual pots or seed trays. Grow on in warmth for a few days, then move to a cooler windowsill.

Step 2

Direct sun is essential. Warmth-loving/delicate kinds are best on a patio; traditional hardy annuals thrive in the open garden. In a poor summer or cold location, salpiglossis, eustoma or large-flowered zinnias do best under glass or in a polytunnel.

Step 3

Annuals need fertile soil enriched with a little well-rotted compost and general fertiliser, such as blood, fish and bone. Use a multi-purpose compost for containers, and apply liquid tomato feed weekly from June onwards.

Step 4

Cut flowers need straight stems, so support is essential for taller species. Use pea sticks to provide support and tie plants to them where necessary.

Step 5

Unless you cut all annual flowers as they grow, you must remove spent blooms to prevent plants setting seed - otherwise they'll stop flowering. Snip off fading flower-heads regularly to promote a fresh flush of buds.