Californian Poppies are increasing in popularity as they are easy to grow and flower through the summer. T&M believe Summer Sorbet is one of the best new colours introduced in recent years, with its mouth-watering combination of ruffled-rose, pink outer petals, each with a delicious creamy white centre adding to its appeal. A scrumptious, free-flowering annual, ideal for sowing in small or large drifts to create a spectacular splash of colour in sunny borders or large containers on the patio.

Sow outdoors where they are to flower. Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing. Sow 12mm (½in) deep in rows 15cm (6in) apart.

For spring/summer flowering pot plants: Sow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in late summer/early autumn. Grow on cool in full light in a glasshouse or cold frame and water sparingly.

When large enough to handle, thin out the seedlings to 15cm (6in) apart.