Matthiola incana, commonly known as Stock or Brompton Stock, is a delightful
addition to any garden with its charming blooms and sweet fragrance. If you're
considering adding this beauty to your garden, you're in for a treat! Here's
your comprehensive growing guide for Matthiola incana:
Getting to Know Matthiola incana:
Matthiola incana is a member of the Brassicaceae family,
hailing from the Mediterranean region. It's a biennial or short-lived perennial
known for its dense spikes of flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and
occasionally yellow. The flowers emit a lovely, spicy-sweet fragrance, making
them perfect for cutting and bringing indoors.
Planting Location and Soil:
Choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun to
partial shade. Matthiola incana prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of
6.0 to 7.5. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter, which will provide the
necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Planting Time:
Sow Matthiola incana seeds directly into the garden in early
spring after the last frost date has passed. Alternatively, you can start seeds
indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant them outdoors
once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves.
Planting Depth and Spacing:
Sow the seeds shallowly, about 1/4 inch deep, and space them
6-12 inches apart. If transplanting seedlings, space them according to the
mature plant size, usually around 12 inches apart.
Care and Maintenance:
- Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during
dry spells.
- Fertilizing:
Amend the soil with compost before planting and top-dress with compost
throughout the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers, as
they can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
- Mulching:
Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and
suppress weeds.
- Support:
Tall varieties may require staking to support the flower spikes,
especially in windy conditions.
- Deadheading:
Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
- Pest
and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for aphids, caterpillars, and
powdery mildew. Treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or
neem oil.
Harvesting:
Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of Matthiola incana flowers
in your garden, or cut them for lovely bouquets and floral arrangements. Snip
the flower spikes early in the morning or late in the evening when the blooms
are at their freshest.
Overwintering:
In milder climates, Matthiola incana may overwinter and
bloom again the following year. In colder regions, it's often grown as an
annual. Mulch around the base of the plants in late fall to provide some
insulation during winter.
Matthiola incana, with its captivating beauty and enchanting
fragrance, is sure to be a standout in your garden. Whether you're planting
them for their lovely blooms or their delightful scent, these charming flowers
are a joy to grow. With proper care and attention, your garden will be filled
with the sweet perfume of Stock flowers for seasons to come. Happy gardening!
Frequently asked questions:
Is Matthiola incana easy to grow? Matthiola incana,
or Stock, is generally considered easy to grow. It thrives in well-draining
soil, and with proper care, it can reward you with beautiful and fragrant
blooms.
How do you take care of a Matthiola flower? Care for
Matthiola incana involves providing well-draining soil, regular watering, and
deadheading spent blooms. Full sun to partial shade is ideal, and proper
spacing allows for good air circulation.
What is the most fragrant Matthiola? Matthiola incana
is known for its sweet fragrance, but the Evening Scented Stock (Matthiola
longipetala) is often considered the most fragrant variety, especially in the
evening.
What temperature do stocks germinate at? Matthiola
incana seeds generally germinate best at temperatures between 60-70°F
(15-21°C).
Does stock need darkness to germinate? No, Stock
seeds do not require darkness for germination. Sow them shallowly and provide
adequate light.
Does stock need cold stratification? Matthiola incana
does not typically require cold stratification for germination.
Is Matthiola incana a perennial? Matthiola incana is
often grown as a biennial, though in milder climates, it may behave as a
short-lived perennial.
What is the most smelly plant in the world? While
Matthiola incana is fragrant, the title for the most smelly plant is often
given to the corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum).
Is Matthiola incana an edible flower? While not
commonly consumed, Matthiola incana flowers are generally considered non-toxic.
However, exercise caution and verify edibility before consuming any plant.
Should stocks be cut back after flowering? Yes, it's
advisable to cut back Stock flowers after they bloom to encourage new growth
and prolong the blooming period.
Can you take cuttings from stock flowers? Matthiola
incana is usually grown from seeds, but it is possible to take cuttings from
established plants, especially if you have a favorite variety.
What is the vase life of Matthiola incana? Matthiola
incana has a good vase life, often lasting up to a week or more if properly
cared for. Change the water regularly and trim the stems for longevity.
What is the importance of Matthiola incana? Matthiola
incana adds aesthetic value to gardens with its vibrant blooms and sweet
fragrance. Its hardiness and versatility make it a popular choice for both
ornamental and cut flower gardens.
What is the common name for Matthiola incana?
Matthiola incana is commonly known as Stock or Brompton Stock.
What does the purple Matthiola incana mean? Purple
Matthiola incana is often associated with admiration and expressing a sense of
calmness and grace.
What are the interesting facts about Matthiola?
Matthiola incana has a long history and was once believed to have medicinal
properties. It's also associated with various cultural and historical
anecdotes.
What is the spiritual meaning of the stock flower?
Stock flowers, including Matthiola incana, are often linked to themes of
beauty, happiness, and a strong bond of affection.
What does Matthiola smell like? Matthiola incana
emits a sweet and spicy fragrance, often described as a delightful blend of
cloves and cinnamon.
Where is the best place to plant stock flowers? Plant
Stock flowers in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade exposure.
They make excellent additions to borders, beds, and even containers.
Are stock flowers expensive? The cost of Stock
flowers can vary, but they are generally affordable and make a cost-effective
choice for gardeners and florists alike.
What is the distribution of Matthiola incana?
Matthiola incana is native to the Mediterranean region but is widely cultivated
in various parts of the world. It adapts well to different climates.
What do you do with stocks once they have flowered?
Once Stock flowers have bloomed, cut them back to encourage new growth. You can
also collect seeds for future plantings or simply enjoy their beauty in the
garden.
What are the medicinal uses of Matthiola incana?
Historically, Stock flowers were believed to have medicinal properties,
including remedies for respiratory issues. However, it's essential to consult
with healthcare professionals before using any plant for medicinal purposes.
What is a Matthiola incana 'Anytime Yellow'?
Matthiola incana 'Anytime Yellow' is a variety known for its vibrant yellow
blooms. It shares the same growing requirements as other Matthiola incana
varieties.
Do you know the flower language of Matthiola incana?
Matthiola incana, in the language of flowers, often symbolizes beauty, lasting
love, and the warmth of affection.
What colors are Matthiola flowers? Matthiola flowers
come in various colors, including shades of pink, purple, white, and
occasionally yellow.
What does the lilac Matthiola flower mean? Lilac
Matthiola flowers symbolize purity and innocence, making them a charming choice
for expressing heartfelt emotions.