Are triffids related to sweet william

[Jimmy]

I am not a flower enthusiast more into veg growing.
But I have an over riding streak of Scrooge.
Consequently last year I had a free pack of sweet william, so I planted them.
They didnt flower, I suspect they only flower in second year, is this true?
So this year they are stuck taking up valuable veg space.
As I look at them before the flowers open they look remarkedly like triffids.
The flowers are now opening and once finished they will be destined for the compost heap.
Best place for flowers, I should have done it last year.
Dischuffed
Jimmy

[Mitzi]

I think it's usually grown as a biennial, if that's your question.

[greenishfing]

I must say that the first time I grew sweetcorn I thought "My God, that is a triffid, when I saw the full grown plant. (Watch the original film).

[Jimmy]

I think it's usually grown as a biennial, if that's your question.

Yes biennial thats the word.
Thanks Jimmy

[Babru]

Cut some for a vase, they last ages in water. You've got them, you may as well enjoy them!

[Jimmy]

Wife suffers from hay fever so hates flowers.
So I might cut some!
Jimmy

[Jimmy]

I must admit once they opened they were quite pretty.
Pretty yes, useful no.
So as with all flowers thay are "pretty useless".
Will they flower OK next year?
Thanks Jimmy.

[Jimmy]

Hmm, perhaps I am a little harsh on flowers.
Jimmy

[Small pumpkin]

Yes they will continue to flower.
This is my first successful year of getting sweet William past the plug plant stage. I'm really looking forward to them flowering next year. So I'm quite jealous I'm not a massive flower fan but I do like sweet William.
If you are going to dig them out, put them in a pot or carrier bag and give them to a neighbor or relative for their garden. Don't bin them.

[Jimmy]

Thanks, might pass them on to my sister who likes flowers.
Jimmy

[Jimmy]

Well I suppose they are pretty.
Wifey likes them.
So I guess I will have to waste some valuable veg growing space.
Jimmy

[Nicos]

Wow!..those do look lovely!