Echinops ritro subsp. ruthenicus - Kew Pollination Seed CollectionRuthenian Globe Thistle

Sow Echinops from January to April on the surface of a good seed compost, lightly cover with compost or vermiculite, and gently firm down. Place in a propagator at a temperature of 20-25C (70-75F), or seal inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 10-20 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to plant outdoors.

When all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out in a sunny spot on light, well drained soil.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.