Quick Guide: summer, half hardy, full sun, height: 23cm-38cm/9-15in, width: 30cm/12in
Commonly known as baby's breath or chalk plant, Gypsophila elegans is-covered with masses of tiny white or pink flowers throughout the summer. It makes a cloudy haze in the border and is indispensable in flower arrangements.
PROPAGATION Sow seeds in the flowering site in early spring or late summer. When the seedlings reach 10-15cm/4-6in, provide twiggy sticks or thin brushwood as supports.
GROWING Gypsophilas need very well-drained soil, preferably alkaline; dress acid soils lightly with lime. Cutting down the stems after flowering may induce a second flush of flowers in late autumn.
VARIETIES `Alba Grandiflora', 'Covent Garden', white flowers; `Rosea', vivid pink.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.
