Stock flower (Matthiola incana), also known as gillyflower or hoary stock, is a hardy plant which brings splashes of colour and a sweet and spicy fragrance to a garden. With clusters of blooms forming a frilly spire of petals and narrow green-grey leaves, it also makes a long-lasting cut flower. The species plant is native to southern Europe and has purple flowers, but many single- and double-flowered cultivars have been developed in a range of colours, from white and yellow through every shade of pink, to red and purple. Stocks attract pollinating insects to the garden.
Stock flower is usually a biennial, meaning it has a two-year life cycle. In the first year, the summer-sown plant develops roots, stems and leaves, and survives through winter. In the second year, it flowers and sets seed before dying. Stocks are fairly hardy, but may suffer in very hard frosts.
Stock flowers, also known as gillyflowers or matthiola, are beloved heirloom cottage garden plants that have been grown for centuries. Their spicy clove-like fragrance and colorful blooms on long, sturdy stems make them ideal cut flowers. While stock can be purchased as bedding plants, growing stock from seed is quite easy and rewarding.
When to Plant Stock Seeds
Stock is a cool weather annual or biennial that thrives in spring and fall. In zones 7-10, seeds can be direct sown in late summer or early fall for blooms the following spring. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Nighttime temperatures should stay above 60°F for good bud set. Once daytime temperatures reach 80°F, blooming will decrease.
Stock grown from seed takes 10-12 weeks to reach maturity Succession planting every 2 weeks extends the harvest
Where to Plant Stock
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile, neutral pH
- Spacing: 4-6 inches apart
How to Grow Stock from Seed
Starting Indoors
- Use seed starting mix and cells or flats. Press seeds 1⁄4 inch deep.
- Keep soil evenly moist, plants dislike wet feet.
- Grow at 65-75°F. Seeds sprout in 7-14 days.
- Harden off before transplanting after danger of frost passes.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
- Prepare soil and rake smooth. Mix in compost.
- Sow seeds 1⁄8 inch deep and 6 inches apart.
- Water gently to keep moist, not soaked.
- Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart.
Caring for Stock Plants
- Pinching is not necessary.
- Water regularly, allow soil to partially dry out between waterings.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer.
- Install support structures once stems lengthen.
- Harvest flowers for bouquets when 1⁄3 to 1⁄2 of florets are open.
Troubleshooting Common Stock Problems
- Leggy growth: Insufficient light, transplant promptly
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering, improve drainage
- Wilting: Underwatering, water more frequently
- Few blooms: Extreme heat, plant for spring and fall crops
Tips for Growing Stock from Seed
- Choose double flowering cultivars for the fullest blooms. Look for series like Double Column Stox.
- Succession planting ensures a continuous supply.
- Good airflow prevents disease. Avoid crowding.
- Mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
- Liquid feed weekly once buds appear to support heavy blooming.
- Harvest in early morning when flowers are most fragrant.
- Condition in warm water after cutting to maximize vase life.
Companion Planting for Stock
Good companion plants for stock include:
- Snapdragon
- Dianthus
- Calendula
- Lavender
- Alyssum
These flowers have similar cultural needs and help attract pollinators.
How to Save Stock Seeds
Stock is usually grown as an annual but may self-sow in zones 7-10. To save seeds:
- Select the healthiest, earliest blooming plants.
- Bag blooms to prevent cross pollination.
- Allow pods to dry on plants.
- Collect dried pods, remove seeds.
- Store in cool, dry location.
When starting saved stock seeds the following year, keep in mind that strains may not come true from cross pollination.
Popular Types of Stock Flower Seeds
Some top stock flower varieties for home gardens include:
- Double Column Mix: 24-30” tall, large double blooms
- Cinderella: 12” compact plant, mixed double blooms
- Bright Pink: Vivid color, clove scent
- Starlight Mix: 18” height, fragrant single blooms
The Perfect Seasonal Flower
Stock’s spicy sweet scent and pretty posies have made it a gardener’s favorite for centuries. When grown from seed, stock is easy to cultivate for vibrant spring and fall gardens. With proper care, these charming heirlooms will provide lovely bouquets and garden joy for generations to come.
How to grow stock flowers
Grow stock flower from seed and plant in full sun in an informal flower border. For a bushier plant with more flower spikes, pinch out the growing tip in spring. Deadhead throughout summer and, when the flower display is over, dig up the plant and add it to your compost heap.
Where to grow stock flowers
Grow stocks in full sun, but if your garden tends to get very hot in summer it may be better to plant them in partial shade to avoid the more intense midday sun. The plant does well in a sheltered spot in moist, free-draining soil and is suitable for a container or a flower border. Plant taller cultivars (up to 60cm) in the middle of a border, and shorter ones towards the front. Grow them close to seating areas so that you can appreciate their sweet, clove-like scent. Stock flower, like the rest of the cabbage family, does not thrive in acid soil.
Growing STOCK from SEED | PepperHarrow | Zone 5
FAQ
How long does it take for stock to grow from seed?
Place the cells in a sunny room with a temperature between 65 to 75°F. The seeds should sprout within two weeks. After the danger of frost has passed, harden off your seedlings by gradually acclimating them to the outdoors for a few hours a day; then transplant them to the garden or containers.
Can you grow stock from seed?
How to grow stock flowers. Grow stock flower from seed and plant in full sun in an informal flower border. For a bushier plant with more flower spikes, pinch out the growing tip in spring.
What is the best way to start stock seeds?
- Sow stock indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- Sow ¼ inch deep in seed-starting formula.
- Keep the soil moist at 60-65 degrees F.
- Seedlings emerge in 10-20 days.
- Firm lightly and keep evenly moist.
Are stocks hard to grow?
Stock can be a bit tricky to grow, as it generally grows best in cold temperatures… and let’s face it, most growers are not thinking about planting flowers in late winter/early spring when they need to go in the ground. If planted too late in the season as temperatures are rising, the plants will fail to thrive.
How do you grow stock plants from seeds?
To grow stock plants from seeds, start them indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Press the seeds gently into a tray of rich, well-draining, neutral soil and lightly sprinkle more soil on top (the seeds will need light to germinate).
How do stock plants grow?
In the first year, the summer-sown plant develops roots, stems and leaves, and survives through winter. In the second year, it flowers and sets seed before dying. Stocks are fairly hardy, but may suffer in very hard frosts. Grow stock flower from seed and plant in full sun in an informal flower border.