New 2008

The best winter flowering Viola! Gardeners have been growing larger winter flowering pansies for years, but after T&M's winter flowering trials we consider more gardeners should grow these smaller flowered violas. This delightful mixture of seven distinct colours will enhance semi-trailing plants tumbling over the sides of baskets or containers or can be grown as an effective ground cover in borders.

Unlike their larger cousins Endurio will keep on flowering throughout the winter whatever the weather! Spring sowings will give flowers during early summer, whilst summer and autumn sowings will bloom the following winter or spring.

Height: 30-35cm (12-14in).

Sow February to March or June to September. Sow seed on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays. Cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at a temperature of between 15-20C (59-68F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 14-21 days. Take care not to provide too high a temperature, as this can prevent germination.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise young plants to outdoor conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 23cm (9in) apart, or plant into baskets and containers. For best results, provide a light, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade.

Over-winter September sowings in a cold frame then plant out the following spring.