How to Grow Cornflowers: A Guide for Gardeners of All Levels
Introduction
Cornflowers are beautiful wildflowers that are easy to grow and bloom profusely in the summer. They come in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, maroon, and white. Cornflowers are also a favorite of pollinators, making them a great addition to any wildlife garden.
Growing Conditions
Cornflowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are not heavy feeders, so there is no need to add fertilizer. In fact, cornflowers actually do best in soil with low fertility.
Sowing Seeds
You can sow cornflower seeds directly in the ground in the spring. Simply scatter the seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly rake them in. You can also start seeds indoors in seed trays and transplant them outdoors when the weather warms up.
Spacing and Thinning
Once the seedlings have emerged, you will need to thin them out so that they are spaced about 6 inches apart. This will give the plants enough room to grow and develop.
Care
Cornflowers are relatively low-maintenance plants. Once they are established, they will only need occasional watering and deadheading. Deadheading is the process of removing faded flowers. This will encourage the plants to produce more blooms.
Harvesting
Cornflowers bloom for about 10-12 weeks in the summer. You can harvest the flowers by cutting them with sharp shears. Cornflowers make beautiful cut flowers and can also be used in salads and other dishes.
Troubleshooting
Cornflowers are generally trouble-free to grow. However, they can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. If you see any pests on your plants, you can treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
Cornflowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With a little care, they will bloom profusely and provide you with months of enjoyment.
