Silene armeria, commonly known as Sweet William Catchfly, is a charming and easy-to-grow perennial that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. Here are some key characteristics and information about this plant: **Description:** - **Foliage:** Silene armeria typically forms a low mound of narrow, lance-shaped, green leaves. - **Height:** It usually reaches a height of about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm). - **Flowers:** The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, pink or magenta flowers. Each individual flower has five petals, and they are arranged in a way that resembles a tiny fireworks explosion. **Hardiness:** - Silene armeria is generally hardy and can tolerate a range of growing conditions. - It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. **Flower Color:** - The flowers of Sweet William Catchfly are commonly pink or magenta. **Where to Grow:** - This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. - It is adaptable to various soil types but thrives in moderately fertile, alkaline to neutral soil. - Silene armeria is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. **How to Grow from Seed:** 1. **Seeding Time:** Sow seeds in late spring or early summer. Alternatively, you can sow them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. 2. **Soil Preparation:** Use a well-draining seed starting mix if sowing indoors. For outdoor sowing, prepare the soil by raking it to a fine texture. 3. **Sowing Depth:** Sow the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil. Don't cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate. 4. **Germination:** Seeds typically germinate in 10-20 days at temperatures around 60-70F (15-21C). 5. **Transplanting:** Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to their final growing location, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart. **Invasive Potential:** - Silene armeria is not considered highly invasive. However, it can self-seed readily, leading to naturalized colonies in favorable conditions. To control self-seeding, deadhead the flowers before they set seed. =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Seed Shipping: Flat Rate Low Shipping fee- no matter how many seeds you order! Add this item to your cart and keep shopping-- at https://www.ebay.ca/usr/okiger-2i55iwk =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Shipping of Seeds and Cuttings: Orders are shipped via Canada Post Mail unless otherwise specified. Some items are shipped without tracking to keep costs low. This is the most economical option. Canada Post is incredibly reliable, but can be slow. If you require tracking or a faster delivery please message before ordering. We try to ship any live plants on MONDAYS or TUESDAYS as a precautionary measure to avoid delays over the weekend and ensure the viability of live plant orders. Weather may be a contributing factor in the processing of our orders and will occasionally cause some delay. We will ship seeds anywhere in the world, however, please make sure you check with your country's customs office to be sure that they are allowed in. We will not be held responsible for orders held, confiscated and/or destroyed by customs. Please note this and make sure you understand before you buy it. If you have a question or if you are unclear about shipping policies please contact us. We welcome questions! Contact us before, after, or during any transaction and you will receive a reply ASAP. Thanks for visiting! Don't forget to bookmark us!