There are several flowers that fall into this Lychnis category, including Rose Campion, Maltese Cross, Arkwright's Campion, and Arctic Campion. These are popular, showy perennials that have been favorites of gardeners for many, many years. They are all wonderful for attracting beneficial insects, and they pair beautifully with other perennials to make stunning displays.

Lychnis seeds respond well to a cold treatment. Sow the seeds directly outdoors in the late fall after a killing frost or early spring when frosts are still expected. Following a 2 - 4 week cold treatment in the refrigerator, Lychnis seeds can be started indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to the end of frost season.

Lychnis plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. Too much shade will result in tall, spindly plants. Lychnis plants do best in fairly rich, moderately moist, well-draining soil.

• If starting Lychnis seeds indoors, dampen some sand or soil, add the seeds in, and place this mixture in the refrigerator for 2 - 4 weeks
• Following the cold period, start the flower seeds in starter trays
• Cover the seeds lightly with soil
• Keep the soil constantly moist and warm for germination
• Place the tray in a bright sunny window for growing
• Once the seedlings are several inches tall, harden them off for 7 - 10 days
• Transplant outdoors once frost danger has passed
• Or, prepare a seedbeed by working the soil several inches
• Add compost to improve the soil drainage
• Sow the Lychnis seeds and cover lightly with soil
• Keep the area continually moist for germination
• Thin seedlings to strongest plant - spacing appropriately for the type of flower

• Irrigate regularly to establish the plants
• Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
• Cut plants back in autumn
• Mulch over the plants for winter protection in cold climates