How to sow Hepatica seed

Hepaticas are generally easy to grow from seed if a few simple guidelines are followed.

It’s essential to gather hepatica seed while it is still green and to sow fresh seed.

The seed should be sown thinly in seed pans and  Use a very well-drained compost made up of 2 parts John Innes Seed, 1 part multi-purpose compost (or leaf mould) and 1 part perlite. Cover with 1cm (half an inch) of potting grit to deter moss.

The pans should be placed in a shady position outside as they need a prolonged period of cold to germinate. Ensure they are kept moist at all times, watering when required with a good drenching (avoid frequent light watering). Seeds usually germinate the following spring but some Asian species of hepatica can take two years to germinate.

After germination return the seedlings in their pans back into the greenhouse. Prick out the seedlings either in autumn or the following spring into cell trays or alternatively 15 or so seedlings evenly spaced per pot into 3 litre pots, or 5 seedlings in 1 litre pots. Use compost made up from equal parts John Innes No.2, multi-purpose compost (or leaf mould) and perlite.

Pot on as necessary using the same mix, or plant out in the garden, (depending on variety). Watch out for slugs and mice!