Stock flowers, also called stock, these lovely cottage garden plants have a subtle scent that many connect with heirloom flowers. They come in an assortment of hues. Stocks are a stunning, aromatic plant that should take center stage in any garden because of their vibrant colour bursts and alluring fragrance.
These wonderful plants are simple to raise from seed and attract many pollinators. This post demonstrates how to grow lovely stock flowers!
Stock Flower Overview
| Common Name | Gilly flower, hoary, ten-weeks |
| Botanical Name | Matthiola incana |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Plant Type | Biennial, annual |
| Mature Size | 1-3 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full, partial |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Soil pH | Natural |
| Bloom Time | Spring, summer |
| Flower Colour | Purple, blue, red, white |
| Hardiness Zones | 7-10 (USDA) |
| Native Areas | Europe, Mediterranean |
Where to Plant Stock Flowers
Stock flower plants grow best in well-drained, moist soils, whether they are in full or partial shade. They smell great and look great next to peaceful spots or in cottage gardens. Biennials and short-lived perennials can be grown in zones 7 through 10, although stock plants are typically planted annually.
It is also possible to grow stock in flower boxes and other types of containers; make sure the container you choose has a diameter of at least one or two inches bigger than the anticipated breadth of the plant.
When and How to Plant Stock Flowers
Stock seeds should be sown six to eight weeks before the final frost in areas with colder weather. It is possible to move seedlings outside in the early spring. If you’re planting nursery plants, sow your seeds 6 to 12 inches apart in a hole that is about the same size as the nursery pot.
You can sow seeds straight in the ground following the final spring frost. Place the seeds on the soil’s surface and give them daily moisture until they start to sprout. As soon as the seeds emerge, space the seedlings 6 to 12 inches apart.
Stock Flower Care
The main requirements for stock flower cultivation are as follows:
- Make sure stock flowers receive two to three hours of sunlight each day—ideally morning sun and indirect light for the maximum blooms.
- Plant in organic, rich, and well-drained soil.
- To help retain water and keep roots cool, top the soil with a layer of mulch and keep it evenly moist.
- Stock flowers need cooler weather, so stay away from intense heat and humidity.
Light
Indirect sunlight will also keep stock flowers blooming. Although they prefer full sun, stock flowers will still bloom in partial shade as long as they receive at least 2–3 hours of sunlight each day.
Morning sunshine is preferable to afternoon sunlight because it won’t overwhelm them with too much heat or light.
Soil and Water
Good soil for stock flowers is rich, well-draining, moist, and somewhat alkaline (ideally between 6.5 and 7.5). If you need to amend your soil before planting, dig a hole eight inches deep and mix in some compost. To help keep the soil’s moisture content consistent and discourage weed growth, mulch can also be added as a top dressing.
Temperature and Humidity
Matthiola incana is a “half-hardy annual” in some places because of its slight temperature sensitivity, which allows it to continue blooming even after one or two frost occurrences.
As a perennial, it may not come back due to harsh winters, but it does enjoy cool temperatures. It is not suited to extremely high humidity; thus, constantly damp tropical weather is not suitable.
Fertilizer
If planted in the right soil, stock plants can grow without fertilizer. After new growth appears on young plants, you might choose to follow the manufacturer’s directions and apply a mild fertilizer.
Restrict fertilizer applications to once per month and monitor plant health, as excessive fertilizer applications might lead to root rot.
Pruning
While your stock plants continue to sprout new foliage until autumn, deadhead spend blossoms as soon as possible to keep them looking nice and healthy.
Should any flowers have faded, use a sharp knife to chop off the entire flower spike or pinch off the dead flowers with your fingers. Resolve to trim the stalk as close to the root as possible to focus the plant’s energy on growing new stalks.
Potting and Repotting
Growing stock flowers in pots follows the same general guidelines as caring for stock plants in the ground. Soil that is somewhat neutral, well-draining, and wet is required for the plants.
Take special note of the plant tags and select a container that fits the growing requirements of the stock plant you have selected. Stick with a shorter variety to avoid the container becoming very top-heavy.
Repotting is not necessary for stock plants because they are typically grown as annuals in most regions. When the growth season comes to an end, pull the plants and add them to your compost pile (or take cuttings; see below).
Common Problems
Stock issues are rare, particularly in light of the new hybrids’ increased resistance to disease and pests. Overwatering, poorly draining soil, and overcrowding will be the main causes of these issues.
Pests
Stressed-out or severely hot-weathered plants are more vulnerable to pest attacks. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are a few more insects that can attack in addition to flea beetles. Certain infestations can be managed by clearing the afflicted regions.
To control a particular insect in large quantities, use a pesticide. When using insecticides, exercise caution since most of them also harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Take care while decorating salads and desserts with flowers that have undergone chemical manipulation.
Diseases
Overwatering and overcrowding cause diseases such as mildew, grey mould, leaf spot, fusarium wilt, verticillium wilt, and root rot. Make sure the plants are spaced sufficiently apart and that there is sufficient breeze between them.
To stop water from building up on the leaves and allowing it to evaporate during the day, apply water to the surface first thing in the morning.
Conclusion
One of my favourite things about these flowers is their strong scent, which is why I believe they’re amazing. I find it quite simple to cultivate these among my other flowers.
As long as they receive regular deadheading and lots of water, they are rather indifferent. The long wait until springtime, when they bloom, is worthwhile.
FAQ
Can you eat stock flowers?
Indeed, it is true. The stock plant, scientifically known as Matthiola incana, belongs to the Brassica family of plants, which also contains cruciferous foods like turnips, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage.
The delicate flowery flavour of the flowers is perfect for salads, pasta dishes, and dessert garnishes. The plant’s pods, which taste like sharp radish, are also edible.
What’s the stock flower called in botanical terms?
The name “stock flowers” is attributed to the Italian physician and botanist Pietro Andrea Mattioli in the sixteenth century. His profession was plant identification, and he enjoyed stock for its lovely aroma and medicinal properties.
Is it possible to dry-stock flowers?
Yes, it is true! If you tie a few stems together and hang the stock flowers upside down in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, they will dry nicely. If you can dry them fast enough, they might even retain some of their aromas.