How to Grow and Care for Stock Flowers: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Stock flowers, also known as gillyflowers or hoary stock, are beautiful and fragrant plants that add a splash of color to any garden. They are easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
Growing Stock Flowers from Seed
Stock flowers can be easily grown from seed. In early summer, sow seeds in a tray filled with sowing compost. Cover the seeds with a light sprinkling of sieved compost or vermiculite. Place the tray in a warm, sunny spot until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 10 days.
Once the seedlings have two true leaves, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a cool, bright place. In early autumn, plant them out into their final flowering position.
Planting and Growing Stock Flowers
Stock flowers prefer to grow in full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and do not like to be overwatered.
When planting stock flowers, space them at least 25cm apart. Water them in well and mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture.
Caring for Stock Flowers
Stock flowers are relatively low-maintenance plants. However, there are a few things you can do to keep them healthy and blooming their best.
- Water: Water stock flowers regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can lead to mildew.
- Fertilize: Fertilize stock flowers every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Deadhead: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
- Pinch out the growing tip: Pinching out the growing tip of stock flowers will encourage branching, which will result in more flowers.
Propagating Stock Flowers
Stock flowers can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. To propagate by seed, simply collect the seeds from spent flower spikes and sow them in a tray of seed compost. To propagate by cuttings, take cuttings from healthy stems in late summer or early autumn and root them in a pot of potting mix.
Pests and Diseases
Stock flowers are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including mildew, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these problems, make sure to keep the plants well-spaced and well-ventilated. Avoid getting the leaves wet when watering, and inspect the plants regularly for pests and diseases.
Conclusion
Stock flowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With a little care and attention, they will thrive and bloom for months on end.
