What can you tell me about stock? I planted some from plugs this year because I had read on this forum that it is a good cutting flower. If I cut the flowers will it continue to flower? What kind of care does it require? Thanks
Hi - I grow about 1000 plugs of stock per year, just because I love the flower. However, it generally doesn't rebloom. So, I usually underplant other beds with the stock! Cutting is a bit of a challenge, but uses bed space a bit better.
Matthiola incana is a bit cranky about the weather. A moderate climate in the 45-65 degree range is where they will thrive best. The only reason to grow this particular flower is the wonderful sweet scent. Customers love it. Apparently, it evokes a memory for them. They tell us how they remember their grandmother grew it when they were a child, etc. We grow a non-branching stock early in a hightunnel. It grows 36" tall.
In late May I planted a half dozen stocks (Matthiola incana Lucinda (Light rose)) at my wife's request. She remembered them from her childhood garden. They bloomed two weeks later and I cut the flowers to bring into the house. I assumed the plants would behave like most annuals and produce new stems and flowers but they haven't done anything. Is this not a suitable plant for cutting flowers? Does it go dormant in warmer weather? Will it bloom when cooler weather returns?
