Summer patio projects

Night Scented Stock

Calendula and Night-Scented Stock – Create a Fragrant Summer Patio for Less Than £10

If you’re looking for an easy gardening project that will make a real difference to your patio this summer, growing Calendula and Night-Scented Stock from seed is one of the best investments you can make.

For less than £10, a few packets of seed, a couple of pots and some compost can transform an ordinary patio into a colourful and fragrant outdoor space that can be enjoyed throughout the summer months.

The beauty of this combination is that Calendula provides bright colour during the day, while Night-Scented Stock takes over in the evening, filling the air with a sweet perfume that drifts across the garden on warm summer nights.

A Patio Project That Costs Less Than £10

Many garden improvements can be expensive, but this project is simple, quick and affordable.

All you need is:

• A packet of Calendula seeds
• A packet of Night-Scented Stock seeds
• A few clay or terracotta pots
• John Innes compost
• A sunny position on the patio

In just a few weeks, you’ll have pots full of flowers that not only look attractive but also add a completely new dimension to outdoor dining and relaxing in the garden.

Bright Summer Colour with Calendula

Calendula, often known as Pot Marigold, is one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed.

The bright orange and yellow flowers bloom continuously throughout summer, creating cheerful displays around seating areas, patios and doorways.

Simply sow the seeds into pots filled with John Innes compost, cover lightly and keep moist. The seedlings germinate quickly and soon begin producing flowers.

Calendula also attracts pollinating insects and beneficial predators such as ladybirds, helping to support the natural balance of wildlife in the garden.

The Secret Ingredient – Night-Scented Stock

Night-Scented Stock may not be the showiest flower during the day, but once the sun begins to set it becomes one of the most rewarding plants you can grow.

As evening temperatures rise, the small flowers release a powerful sweet fragrance that can fill an entire patio or courtyard garden.

The scent is particularly noticeable on warm summer evenings when doors and windows are open, making it perfect for growing near seating areas, patios and outdoor dining spaces.

Many gardeners are amazed by the strength of the fragrance produced by such a simple and inexpensive plant.

Easy to Grow

Both Calendula and Night-Scented Stock are ideal for beginners.

Simply:

1. Fill pots with John Innes compost.
2. Sow the seeds thinly.
3. Cover lightly with compost.
4. Water gently.
5. Place in a sunny position.

Within a few weeks the plants will be growing strongly and producing flowers.

Regular watering and occasional feeding with a liquid fertiliser will keep them flowering throughout summer.

Enjoy Your Patio Day and Night

What makes this project so effective is that it works throughout the day.

During daylight hours, the bright Calendula flowers provide colour and attract pollinating insects.

As evening arrives, Night-Scented Stock fills the air with fragrance, creating a relaxing atmosphere for sitting outdoors with family and friends.

For a total investment of less than £10, this simple project can completely change the feel of a patio, balcony or courtyard garden.

Sometimes the most successful gardening projects are also the simplest.