Heather (Caulluna vulgaris)

Heather (Calluna vulgaris) A superb small evergreen shrub clothed in mauve flowers in late summer, just when the bees need the nectar. Sow in autumn on moist compost and leave uncovered as light is needed for germination; place outside overwinter. Or sow in spring, first covering with a plastic bag in a fridge for 4 weeks. Germination can be erratic. Transplant seedlings when big enough to handle into 8cm pots and plant out the following autumn.