Ammi Majus

Growing Guide

Ammi majus is reminiscent of Cow Parsley which softens the verges of country lanes. This tall annual produces a froth of delicate white blooms that bring a simple, elegant feel to summer borders. Commonly known as Bishops Weed, its graceful stems rise above ferny foliage, lending themselves nicely to summer bouquets.

This airy annual associates beautifully with tall grasses and summer perennials, mingling happily to soften planting schemes and create a hazy, romantic appearance. Its blooms are loved by pollinating insects, and the autumn seed heads attract Finches to the garden.

Direct sow ammi majus seeds outdoors where they are to grow from April to June in full sun or semi shade, on fertile, well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, at a depth of 1.5mm in drills spaced 30cm apart. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. When ammi seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 25cm apart.

Ammi can be sown in trays or pots, but it is so easy to grow through direct sowing why not save yourself some extra pricking out and care by sowing direct. If you decide to here's how to get the best from them:

• Fill trays with good quality peat-free compost
• Sow the seeds finely over the tray. Try to keep them spread out so they are easier to separate and pot on later on.
• Lightly cover the seeds with compost.
• Water, and place on a sunny windowsill, in a cold frame or greenhouse. Once they have germinated, if you have them on a sunny windowsill you will need to ensure it is in a cooler part of the house eg Porch, cold conservatory, a room with less heating. Ensure the seedlings have plenty of light.
• Pot on into individual pots when they have put on their first true leaves
• Harden off Ammi Majus before planting out after the frosts have passed.

TOP TIPS

Ammi stems will require staking. Place twiggy sticks among the seedlings while they are 10cm high and allow ammi plants to grow through them for support.

There's no need to pinch Ammi Majus, It doesn't branch in the same way Sweet Peas, Dahlias etc do.