The Universal Plus series is a great improvement on traditional Pansies; more compact plants with earlier flowering, and exceptional weather tolerance. Large, 5cm (2in) flowers in vibrant shades of yellow, orange and white make up this great mix

Sow February to March for summer flowering or June to September for autumn planting/winter flowering. Sow 1.5mm (1/16in) deep in good seed compost excluding light as darkness is beneficial. Germination usually takes 14-21 days at 15-20C (60-70F). Keep soil just moist and avoid high temperatures which prevent germination.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant about 5cm (2in) apart in trays of potting compost or 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow cool. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost, 23-30cm (9-12in) apart in most soils, sun or part shade.

June-August sowings can be planted out in their flowering positions, window boxes, hanging baskets, planters in the Autumn, they will flower in mild spells through the winter and again in the spring.