Sow seeds of annuals indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost at 65-70F, germination in 1-3 weeks. Just press seeds into soil surface. Perennial species can be easily grown from half-hardened tip cuttings taken in summer. You can also peg down layers at anytime.

Grow in full sun. Frost hardiness depends on type, but prolonged cold is generally poorly tolerated. If wet at the same time as cold, rot will kill them before the frost. Containers should be wintered indoors in colder climes. Its attractive foliage make it good in a container or trailing over a stone wall.

The blooms only have disk florets, no true petals or ray florets. Many have colorful papery, petal-like bracts that surround the flower heads. When cut and dried young, the flowers preserve color and shape well. Trim fading flowers to lengthen blooming period.

Grow in light, gritty, well-drained soil. Water during dry weather, but do not allow to become waterlogged.

Either plant with slow-release fertilizer or plenty of compost, or fertilize every 4-6 weeks.

Trim and shape in the spring. Remove any plants that frost kills in the fall. Cut back flowered shoots to promote new growth.

Caterpillars are a threat to foliage. Other problems are rust and powdery mildew.