Sweet Williams are quintessential heirloom flowers; fond names such as Velvet Williams and Bloomy Downs refer to these shorn velvet flowers. Bushels of them were planted in England at Hampton Court circa 1533, and at one time, almost one hundred varieties were cultivated. They then traveled to America, and their zenith was in Victorian-patterned beds. Sweet William is a beautiful biennial that attracts butterflies and bees and is deer-resistant. Often grown in borders as well as the cutting garden, its edible petals make lovely garnishes for the plate and as salad confetti. Mulch during its first winter, being sure to keep the crowns uncovered. Severe cold or saturated winter soil may lead to dieback. Cut back after flowering to encourage its somewhat perennial tendencies or allow it to self-sow for new seedlings.