Ammi majus

Sowing and growing guidance

Sow Ammi majus seeds direct where they are to flower after last frost, or, in mild-winter areas, autumn sowing for earlier blooms. Choose a sunny to lightly shaded site with well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Scatter thinly, cover lightly, and keep evenly moist until emergence. Thin seedlings to allow ample airflow and upright growth; medium-tall, airy plants may need discreet support in exposed spots. Water to establish, then during dry spells; avoid overfeeding, which encourages soft growth. Deadhead to extend display or leave some heads to self-seed. Handle with care, as sap may irritate skin. Where soils are heavy, improve drainage before sowing or raise rows; direct sowing minimises root disturbance.

• Full sun to light shade; well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
• Direct sow after last frost; in mild climates, autumn sowing can bring earlier blooms.
• Sow thinly, cover lightly; keep moist until germination. Thin/space for airflow; follow packet spacing.
• Medium-tall, airy growth may need staking in windy sites.
• Attractive to pollinating insects.
• Ornamental, with lacy umbels suitable for borders and cutting.

How do I grow Ammi majus from seed?

Ammi majus is a hardy annual that prefers being direct sown, as it forms a taproot and dislikes disturbance. Sow into prepared, weed-free ground, barely cover the fine seed (a light dusting of soil or vermiculite), and keep evenly moist until germination in 1–3 weeks. If starting in trays, use deep modules or soil blocks, sow thinly, and transplant when small to minimise root check. Thin direct sowings in stages to the final spacing. Optional: a light pinch at 15–20 cm can encourage branching without greatly delaying bloom.

When should I sow Ammi majus outdoors?

Sow outdoors after the last frost when the soil is workable and daytime temperatures are mild. In areas with mild winters, autumn sowing is possible for earlier flowers the following season, provided seedlings can grow on without prolonged freeze. For a long flowering window, make small successive sowings at intervals during the cool part of the growing season. Avoid sowing into very hot, dry periods; germination and establishment are best in moderate conditions with consistent moisture.

What growing conditions does Ammi majus need?

Provide full sun to light shade and a well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Very rich soils can produce overly lush growth that is more prone to flopping, so avoid excessive nitrogen. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and dry spells, but do not waterlog. A light mulch helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Good air circulation reduces the risk of mildew. Plants may self-seed in open ground; deadhead before seed set if you wish to limit volunteers.

Ammi majus spacing and support: what’s recommended?

Space plants about 25–40 cm apart (rows 40–60 cm) to allow airflow and long, straight stems. Closer spacing encourages taller stems with smaller umbels; wider spacing produces bushier plants with larger heads. Height typically ranges from 80–120 cm, depending on sowing time and fertility. In windy or exposed sites, a low corral of string or mesh support helps prevent lodging; individual staking is rarely needed in sheltered positions but may be useful for taller, late-season stems.

Is Ammi majus good for cut flowers?

Yes—its lacy, white umbels are a versatile filler for arrangements. Cut stems when most florets in the umbel are just opening (not tight green buds) for best vase life. Strip lower foliage, place into clean, cool water, and condition in a shaded spot before arranging. Vase life is typically around 5–7 days. For continuous supply, harvest regularly and succession sow. Leaving some plants to bloom in the garden supports a range of beneficial insects alongside your cutting patch.

Ammi majus vs Daucus carota: what’s the difference?

Ammi majus has smooth to lightly ridged, mostly hairless stems and produces clean, white, domed umbels with minimal or fine, filigree bracts beneath. Daucus carota (wild carrot) usually has noticeably hairy stems, prominent three-part bracts under each umbel, and often a dark maroon “drop” floret in the center. As Daucus matures, its umbels curl inward into a “bird’s nest,” a trait less pronounced in Ammi. Foliage of Daucus tends to smell more strongly carrot-like when crushed, while Ammi’s scent is lighter.

This page offers general cultivation guidance drawn from standard horticultural references. Actual performance can vary with microclimate, soil texture and fertility, exposure, moisture, and seasonal patterns. Timings are expressed using climate cues such as last frost and when soil is workable. Specific instructions on spacing, sowing depth, and scheduling appear on each product page, with variety-level details from the supplier. Local conditions and practice may lead to adjustments beyond these guidelines.

Cultivation notes for lacy annual umbels

Ammi majus seeds yield airy, white umbels that lend a refined, lacy texture to borders and cutting gardens. Sowing is typically timed for after the last frost directly where plants are to flower, or under cover when soil is workable; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible for an earlier display. Seeds can be surface-sown or lightly covered, as a touch of light often supports germination. Keep conditions evenly moist and cool; seedlings dislike heat and root disturbance, so handle gently if transplanting. Provide full sun and free-draining, moderately fertile soil. Space plants 20–30 cm apart, and consider low support for taller growth in breezy sites. Pinching at 15–20 cm encourages branching and longer stems. For arrangements, harvest when outer florets are open and the central disc remains green. Deadheading can extend the season, while leaving a few heads to mature may allow self-sown volunteers. Store remaining seed in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.