Sweet Pea Jilly Seeds

Sweet Pea Jilly Seeds - Irish Plants Direct

 

Lathyrus odoratus 'Jilly', commonly known as Sweet Pea Jilly, is a beautifully fragrant and elegant variety that produces exquisite blooms in a soft, pastel blend of pink, lavender, and cream. This climbing, annual plant is perfect for adding vertical interest and a touch of romance to any garden. Known for its delightful fragrance and vibrant flowers, Sweet Pea Jilly is ideal for trellises, fences, or as part of a mixed border or cut flower garden. Its delicate blooms also make it a favourite for floral arrangements.

 

The genus Lathyrus comes from the Greek word lathuros, meaning "pea," reflecting its relationship to the pea family. Sweet Pea Jilly is named after the soft, feminine tones of its flowers, offering a lighter, more delicate version of the classic sweet pea. This variety is celebrated for its superb fragrance and vigorous growth, making it an outstanding choice for both seasoned and beginner gardeners.

 

Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Sweet Pea Jilly is highly regarded for its exceptional performance in UK gardens, producing a profusion of flowers from summer through to early autumn. Its pleasant fragrance makes it a perfect addition to sensory gardens or as a cut flower to bring the beauty of the garden indoors.

 

Growing to a height of 1.8 - 2.4 m, Sweet Pea Jilly is an excellent climbing variety that thrives in full sun. It can be grown on supports such as trellises, obelisks, or in containers, adding both height and colour to your garden displays. The attractive flowers and sweet fragrance will provide months of enjoyment throughout the growing season.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 25

 

Sow: October - April (indoors) or March - May (outdoors)

Germination: 10 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 1.8 - 2.4 m

Flowering: June - September

Companion Plants: Sweet Peas, Nasturtium, Marigolds

Avoid Planting With: Root vegetables

 

Sweet Pea Jilly is easy to grow, preferring a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It benefits from regular watering during dry periods, and it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. A support structure is essential for these climbing plants to thrive. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage new flowers and prolong the blooming season.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from October to April. Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing to help improve germination. Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C and ensure the soil remains moist. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, well-drained soil from March to May, once the risk of frost has passed. Plant seeds 2.5 cm deep and keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to 20 cm apart to allow for good air circulation and healthy growth.

 

With its charming pastel hues and delicious fragrance, Sweet Pea Jilly is a perfect addition to any garden, bringing vertical beauty and sensory delight. Whether grown on trellises, fences, or in containers, it will provide long-lasting blooms and fill your garden with sweet, floral fragrance.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range