The folklore of Sweet William and Black-Eyed Susan: She wept when he left on his sea voyage (causing black circles around her eyes). When the fleet returned, she went down to the docks searching for her lover asking of the burly men “Tell me ye sailors, tell me true, If my Sweet William sails with you”. Legend says if you plant these two together, they will bloom at the same time to honor their eternal love.
Habit
A biennial which blooms with clusters of fringed petals in white, pinks, and reds. Many are sweetly fragranced.
Culture
Start seed indoors 8-10 weeks before spring for flowers the first year or directly into the garden for flowers the second year. Cover with ¼” of fine soil.
