The species name is Lonas annua, and it is commonly known as Golden Ageratum or Yellow Ageratum. Dried Ageratum are great for use in flower arrangements. It is best to cut off the stems once the flowers have fully opened, then dry them ready for use.

Start Ageratum seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Transplant out once temperatures are consistently warm. Ageratum seed can be started directly outdoors after last frost in spring.

Plant Ageratum in full sun. These plants favor well-draining soil. They are tolerant of drought once established.

• Sow the Ageratum seeds in starter trays
• Gently press the flower seeds into the soil
• Keep the trays moist and warm for germination
• Before transplanting in your garden, seedlings need to be “hardened off”. Accustom young plants to outdoor conditions by moving them to a sheltered place outside for a week. Protect them from wind and hot sun at first. If frost is expected at night, cover or bring containers indoors, then take them out again in the morning. The hardening off process toughens the plant’s cell structure and reduces transplant shock and scalding.
• Work the garden soil to a depth of 6 - 8 inches and add compost prior to transplanting
• Only directly sow the seed after danger of any frost spacing seeds 8 to 12 inches apart.

• Keep consistently moist to establish the Ageratum plants.
• Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
• Ageratum will self-sow.
• Cut back tired looking plants to encourage new growth.
• These annuals will not tolerate frost, so cover to extend their life.