This pretty dwarf sweet pea has a compact, bushy habit making it ideal for growing in patio containers, hanging baskets and window boxes. Sweet Pea 'Bijou Mixture' produces large, deeply fragrant flowers, in a cheery mix of colours with up to up to five blooms per stem.

Sow seeds indoors from January until April, for transplanting outdoors from May, when the ground is warmer and risk of frost has gone. Sweet peas are hardy annuals, which can also be sown directly outdoors where they are to flower from early summer in warm, weed-free soil. Sow seeds approximately 3cm apart and 1cm deep in a warm environment (up to 20°C), germination can take up to 3 weeks. Alternatively sow indoors from September to October for blooms early the following year.

Soak seeds for 24 hrs before sowing, this will help seeds to germinate faster.

Remove growing tips from seedlings after 3 or 4 pairs of leaves have developed to stop plants from getting leggy. This will produce stronger, denser displays of blooms.

Once the plants have established, remove spent flower heads to promote further flowers throughout the season.

To extend the flowering period, remove seed pods as soon as they appear. These look like fluffy pea pods but SHOULD NOT be eaten.

To create a tall container display, use canes and twine to build a frame and then train your plants onto the structure.

Further Information

Do not eat ornamental flowers or seeds.

Some plants can be harmful if consumed or cause irritation if touched.

Always wear gloves when gardening and wash hands thoroughly when finished.