Lathyrus odoratus 'Almost Black'

Grow in humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light dappled shade. Incorporate well-rotted organic manure before planting and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks when in growth. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. See sweetpea cultivation

For a long and regular supply of blooms, cut flowers frequently, before they produce seed pods

Propagate by seed: in milder areas sow during autumn, and overwinter the young plants in a cold frame or unheated glasshouse, or in colder areas sow in late March or April; plant out after the final spring frost

May be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails

May be susceptible to Powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses