Dharaseeds
Stock Seeds - Giant Imperial Mix
Estimated delivery between February 08 and February 11.
Stock Seeds - Giant Imperial Mix
The Giant Imperial Mix Stock is an exquisite and vibrant addition to any garden, known for its large, fragrant blooms in a stunning array of colors. This variety of Stock (Matthiola incana) is prized for its showy, dense flower spikes and delightful scent, which makes it perfect for flower beds, borders, or as a cut flower in floral arrangements. With a blend of colors ranging from rich purples to soft pastels, the Giant Imperial Mix adds a touch of elegance and charm to any landscape.
Key Benefits
- Fragrant Flowers: Known for its sweet, spicy fragrance that can fill the air with a pleasant scent, especially during the evening.
- Vibrant Color Range: Features a mix of bold and pastel colors, including pinks, reds, whites, purples, and lavenders, adding diversity to your garden.
- Long Blooming Period: Blooms profusely over an extended period, typically from early summer to fall, providing continuous color.
- Great for Cutting: Ideal for use in flower arrangements, these blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them a popular choice for florists.
- Cold Tolerant: Grows well in cooler climates and can tolerate light frosts, making it suitable for early spring or fall gardens.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Stock plants in the Giant Imperial Mix grow to 18–24 inches tall with strong, sturdy stems and dense clusters of flowers.
- Flowering Time: Blooms from early summer through fall, with the first flowers appearing about 60–90 days after planting.
- Growth Habit: Forms a compact bushy plant with vibrant flowers that create an eye-catching display.
- Size: The flower spikes grow to around 10–12 inches long, with each stalk containing multiple individual flowers.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost for a summer bloom or direct sow in early spring for fall blooms.
- Prefers cool temperatures and thrives best in climates with moderate to cool conditions.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants 6–12 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun to light shade, especially in warmer climates.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the germination phase. After establishment, water regularly but avoid waterlogging.
- Water deeply at the base to encourage strong root development and prevent mildew.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time, and again during the blooming period to promote strong, healthy growth and abundant flowers.
- For best results, use a high-phosphorus fertilizer once buds start to form to encourage vibrant blooms.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the area around Stock plants free from weeds to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil cool during hot summer months.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Be vigilant against aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can target Stock plants. Use organic insecticidal soap or natural predators to control these pests.
- Diseases: Stock is susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, so avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plants.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Giant Imperial Mix Stock flowers are ready to bloom about 60–90 days after sowing.
- Harvest Method: Cut flowers in the morning when they are fully open, leaving enough stem to display in a vase.
- Longevity: Once cut, Stock flowers last up to a week in water, making them excellent for bouquets.
Storage
- Short-Term: If left in the ground, Stock flowers bloom continuously through the growing season.
- Long-Term: If saving seeds, allow the flowers to go to seed and collect them in the fall for replanting the next season.
Culinary Uses
- While not commonly used for culinary purposes, Stock flowers can be used to add a delicate fragrance to decorative desserts or cakes.
- Can be used as a garnish for salads, though they are primarily grown for ornamental purposes.
Conclusion
The Giant Imperial Mix Stock is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a fragrant, colorful touch to their garden. With its sweet aroma, vibrant blooms, and hardy growth, this variety is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether used in garden beds, as a cut flower, or as part of a mixed border, the Giant Imperial Mix will surely delight and provide beauty throughout the season.