Celebrating 400 years since the Pilgrim Fathers sailed to the New World
The new and exclusive Spencer-type sweet pea Mayflower 400 was launched by Mr Fothergill’s at its press day earlier this month.
It celebrates the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Pilgrim Fathers from Portsmouth in 1620 to the ‘New World’. All 102 passengers, from England and Holland, established a colony in Massachusetts. Their story is one of suffering and survival in a harsh environment.
Bred by the world-renowned hybridiser Keith Hammett, it produces frilly flowers in a pastel pink flake on a cream background. It is vigorous and free-flowering, with a high scent. Explore tips on how to grow sweet peas from seed.
‘Wonderful sweet pea’
Mr Fothergill’s commercial director, Tim Jeffries, said: “A full and exciting programme of events celebrates the sailing of the Mayflower. We have a great relationship with breeder Keith Hammett to obtain this wonderful sweet pea. By introducing it now, gardeners can celebrate with blooms in the anniversary year.”
Chief executive of Mayflower 400 Charles Hackett said: “I am delighted that the commemoration of the Mayflower’s voyage will be marked by having its own sweet pea. The breadth of events and activities marking this historic voyage is incredible. To have our own sweet pea flowering will add another unique aspect to the year of the Mayflower 400.”
This sweet pea costs £2.40 for 20 seeds, available from Mr Fothergill’s retail stockists, the seed catalogue or online. Visit your local garden centre for the full range or head over to www.mr-fothergills.co.uk.
