Description
Planting instructions
Sowing and caring for stocks
Stocks can be sown in early autumn in a sheltered spot as a cool-weather crop. This results in earlier flowering, starting around May. Alternatively, sowing can begin as early as February. Stocks are light-dependent germinators and therefore must not be covered with soil. The seeds should simply be placed on the surface of the substrate and moistened. Germination begins after about 7 days. Pinching back the seeds should be avoided, as stocks only develop one stem, and pinching back will prevent flowering. Depending on the sowing time, the plants can then be planted out in the garden from mid/late October or in spring, once they are large enough.
Harvesting stocks and cutting them for a vase
Stocks are very undemanding and require little care. However, they should be planted in a sunny location with loose soil. The ideal time to cut them is when the flowers on the stem are about one-third open. Harvesting in the morning or evening (when temperatures are still a bit cooler) will prolong their vase life.
More tips on sowing & care
In our journal articles you will find many valuable tips on the topic of sowing:
