The Scabiosa, often recognized as the Sweet Scabious or Pincushion Flower, is a delightful addition to any garden.
Its unique appeal lies in its pin-cushion-shaped blossoms that attract both admirers and pollinators. Belonging to the Disacaceae family, this beauty is an ideal choice for Canadian gardeners.
Here's your comprehensive guide to nurturing these flowers from seeds.
Starting Out:
- Seeding Time: Begin your planting process either indoors or outdoors. If opting for indoors, start 8 – 10 weeks before transferring them outside. For outdoor sowing, kick-start in early spring. Those in milder winter regions can even consider sowing in the fall.
- Planting Depth and Spacing: These tiny seeds don't require deep burying. A surface-level covering is sufficient. When positioning them in your garden, allocate a space of 30-45cm (8-12″) between each plant.
Growth Essentials:
- Sunlight: These plants love basking in the sun. Ensure they receive full sun exposure for optimal growth results.
- Soil Needs: Scabiosa thrives in rich, humus-based soil that ensures proper drainage. A neutral pH, between 7.0 to 8.0, is their ideal range.
- Maintenance: To keep your flowers looking fresh and to encourage more blooms, deadheading is essential. This simple practice involves removing faded or dead flowers.
Introducing Scabiosa to your garden isn't solely about aesthetic appeal. It's about the joy of watching a seed transform into a full-fledged flower.
With these easy steps, your garden will soon be the envy of the neighbourhood. Happy gardening!