Summer/fall bloom
Frost tender
Plant in full sun in ordinary garden soil when spring weather is warm and settled and all danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil about 1/2 inch deep, 4 to 5 inches apart. Firm soil over seeds. Keep moist until germination in 10 to 12 days.
Seeds can be started indoors about 4 weeks before last expected frost, but since Four O’Clocks grow so quickly, we advise sowing directly into the garden in all but very short summer areas. Thin or transplant seedlings 12 inches apart when they are large enough to handle so plants have ample room to grow and mature.
Vigorous, free blooming Four O’Clocks grow quickly and will effortlessly fill in borders or large open areas to bloom in the afternoons and evenings beginning in mid-summer. If possible, plant Broken Colors close to where you pass by often, so you can enjoy their delicious soft perfume that fills the air. In mild winter climates, Four O’Clocks’ self-sow readily, so remove the seed pods before seeds fall to the ground if you don’t want plants to spread around the garden.
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