Helichrysum bracteatum nanum 'Tom thumb' mix
Helichrysum bracteatum nanum 'Tom thumb' mix
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800 Seeds
Seeding Helichrysum bracteatum nanum 'Tom Thumb Mix'—a dwarf strawflower variety—is a fantastic way to grow compact, long-blooming plants with papery, vibrant blooms perfect for beds, borders, containers, and especially dried flower arrangements. The 'Tom Thumb' mix produces an abundance of double flowers in a range of bright shades on plants that stay around 30 cm (12 in) tall.
🌼 Helichrysum bracteatum 'Tom Thumb Mix' – Seeding Guide
✅ Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Annual (tender in most climates) |
| Height | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) – compact, bushy form |
| Spread | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) |
| Bloom Time | Summer through fall |
| Flower Colors | Mix of red, yellow, pink, orange, white, bronze |
| Light | Full sun |
| Soil | Well-drained, average to sandy |
| Water | Low to moderate |
| Best Use | Beds, borders, pots, cut flowers, dried arrangements |
🌱 Step-by-Step Seeding Instructions
1. When to Sow
| Method | Timing |
|---|---|
| Indoors | 6–8 weeks before last frost |
| Outdoors | After frost (only in warm areas) |
For best results, start indoors — they transplant well.
2. Seed Prep
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No pre-treatment needed
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Tiny seeds — handle carefully
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Needs light to germinate → do not cover!
3. Indoor Sowing Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Containers | Use shallow trays or pots with good drainage |
| Soil | Fine, well-draining seed-starting mix |
| Sowing Depth | Surface sow – do not cover with soil |
| Light | Bright indirect light or grow lights |
| Temperature | Warm – 20–24°C (68–75°F) |
| Germination | 7–14 days |
| Moisture | Mist or bottom-water to avoid disturbing seeds |
4. After Germination
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Keep seedlings in bright light (to prevent stretching)
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Thin or transplant to individual pots when large enough to handle
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Harden off for 7–10 days before moving outside
5. Transplanting Outdoors
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Spacing | 20–25 cm (8–10 in) apart |
| Location | Full sun, open position |
| Soil | Well-drained; tolerates poor or sandy soils |
☀️ Growing Conditions
| Factor | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun – essential for compact growth |
| Soil | Light, free-draining; avoid overly rich soil |
| Water | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Feeding | Light feeding if grown in containers |
✂️ Care & Maintenance
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Deadhead regularly for continuous bloom
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Harvest for drying: Cut when blooms are just beginning to open
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Dry upside down in a dark, dry, airy space to preserve color
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Plants are heat- and drought-tolerant, low-maintenance once established
🎨 Great For:
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Cut flower gardens
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Dried flower crafts
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Borders & edging
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Pollinator gardens
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Containers & small space gardens
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