Drumstick flower 'Billy Button'

300 seeds

How to Seed Drumstick Flower ‘Billy Button’ (Craspedia globosa)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when temperatures are mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for early transplanting.

   • Avoid sowing during April to September, as high Gulf heat limits germination and flower development.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds on the soil surface — do not cover, as light is needed for germination.
   Gently press seeds into the moist soil and mist lightly with water.

3. Soil:
   Prefers light, sandy, well-drained soil with moderate organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% sandy soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils, which cause root rot.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F).

   • Place in bright, indirect light during germination.

   • Once seedlings appear, move to full morning sun and light afternoon shade to protect from harsh heat.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 14–21 days under warm and slightly moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings reach 8–10 cm tall, transplant carefully into beds or pots.

   • Space plants 25–30 cm apart for proper air circulation and strong stems.

   • Harden seedlings gradually before moving to full sun outdoors.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full sun for sturdy stems and bright yellow blooms; partial afternoon shade helps in hotter zones.

   • Watering: Water moderately; allow soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid overwatering.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during the growing season.

   • Maintenance: Remove faded blooms to encourage new growth.

   • The ‘Billy Button’ Drumstick Flower produces round, golden-yellow ball-shaped blooms on slender stems — ideal for borders, pots, and dried floral arrangements.

   • Blooms from late winter through early summer in Gulf climates.