Dharaseeds
Stock Seeds - Appleblossom
Estimated delivery between February 09 and February 12.
The Appleblossom Stock is a beautiful, fragrant flower known for its soft, pastel-colored blooms and strong, upright growth. This variety of stock is particularly valued for its delightful scent, making it a popular choice for both gardens and floral arrangements. With a range of colors from pale pinks to soft purples and whites, Appleblossom Stock brings elegance and charm to any garden. It thrives in cooler climates, making it a great option for early spring or fall planting.
Key Benefits
- Fragrant Blooms: Known for its sweet, spicy fragrance, which makes it perfect for cut flower arrangements and garden borders.
- Vibrant Colors: Produces a range of delicate, pastel colors that add a soft and charming touch to any garden.
- Cold Hardy: A cool-season plant that thrives in early spring or fall, making it an ideal choice for cooler climates.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: Appleblossom Stock flowers hold up well for weeks, ensuring your garden remains colorful for a long time.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright plants with a sturdy, branched stem covered in clusters of flowers.
- Flower Profile: Delicate flowers in soft pink, lavender, and white shades, with a spicy fragrance.
- Growth Habit: Forms bushy plants that can grow up to 2 feet tall, making it a great addition to garden beds or containers.
- Size: Typically grows 18–24 inches tall with a spread of about 12–18 inches.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost for early spring blooms.
- Ideal for cooler weather, thriving in temperatures between 55°F–65°F (13°C–18°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Sow seeds lightly on the surface, pressing gently but not covering, as they need light to germinate.
- Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Sunlight: Needs full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week.
- Water at the base to prevent wetting the foliage and minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time and again after the first round of blooms for continued vigor.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Weeding and Mulching
- Regularly weed around the plants to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
- Mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids and flea beetles, which can damage the foliage. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
- Diseases: Stock plants are susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Appleblossom Stock typically blooms in 10–12 weeks after planting, depending on the growing conditions.
- Size: Flowers can be harvested once they are fully open, and the plant reaches its full height of 18–24 inches.
- Method: Cut flowers in the early morning for the best vase life, cutting the stem at an angle to promote water absorption.
Storage
- Short-Term: Freshly cut Appleblossom Stock can last 5–7 days in a vase with regular water changes.
- Long-Term: For longer storage, you can dry the flowers by hanging them upside down in a cool, dry place.
Culinary Uses
- While Stock is primarily ornamental, its flowers are edible and can be used to garnish salads or desserts for a touch of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Appleblossom Stock is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add fragrance and beauty to their flower beds or containers. Its sweet-scented, pastel-colored blooms, cold tolerance, and attractive growth habit make it a versatile and charming addition to any garden. Whether grown for its beauty or its fragrance, Appleblossom Stock is sure to be a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike.