Dharaseeds
Stock Seeds - Apricot
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Stock Seeds - Apricot
The Apricot Stock is a stunning and fragrant variety of the Stock flower, prized for its soft apricot-colored blooms and long-lasting performance in the garden. Known for its unique fragrance and vibrant beauty, this variety is perfect for adding color and a touch of elegance to any garden, floral arrangement, or container. With its hardy nature and easy-to-grow requirements, the Apricot Stock is a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Key Benefits
- Fragrant Blooms: Offers a sweet, clove-like fragrance that fills the air and adds sensory delight to any garden.
- Attractive Color: Soft apricot flowers create a charming and gentle appearance, making it an eye-catching addition to any flower bed.
- Long Blooming Period: Produces flowers over an extended period, ensuring a continuous display of color throughout the growing season.
- Cold Tolerant: Tolerates cooler temperatures, making it suitable for early spring or fall planting.
- Versatile in the Garden: Perfect for flower beds, containers, or as a cut flower for indoor arrangements.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Stock flowers grow as upright, bushy plants with long stems and dense clusters of blossoms. The apricot flowers are rich in color, with four-petaled blooms forming in thick, pyramid-shaped clusters.
- Flowering Time: Blooms in early spring to early summer, with some varieties continuing to bloom in cooler weather.
- Height: Typically grows to a height of 18–24 inches, making it a great choice for borders or mixed plantings.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost or directly sow outdoors after the threat of frost has passed.
- Best planted in early spring or late summer for fall blooms.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds 6–12 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate light shade.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the germination period. Once established, water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time, and again during mid-spring for continued growth.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep weeds at bay by regularly removing them, and use mulch to maintain moisture and keep the soil cool during warmer months.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Use organic insecticidal soap or natural predators like ladybugs to control pests.
- Diseases: Stocks are susceptible to rust and powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Apricot Stock flowers are ready to bloom in approximately 12–14 weeks from sowing.
- Size: Harvest when flowers are fully open and fresh. The plant will continue producing blossoms as long as the growing conditions are favorable.
- Method: Cut flowers early in the morning to preserve freshness. Use sharp scissors or shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Storage
- Short-Term: Stock flowers can be stored in water-filled vases for up to a week.
- Long-Term: Can be dried by hanging upside down in a cool, dark place for long-term display.
Culinary and Decorative Uses
- Floral Arrangements: Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and fragrance to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Cut Flowers: Excellent for fresh-cut bouquets, providing both color and fragrance.
- Garden Borders: A great choice for planting along garden edges or in containers for seasonal interest.
Conclusion
The Apricot Stock is a beautiful and fragrant variety that adds both color and charm to any garden. Easy to grow and with a long blooming season, it is perfect for gardeners looking to brighten up their flower beds or create elegant floral arrangements. Whether as a centerpiece in your garden or as a cut flower, the Apricot Stock will impress with its beauty and fragrance.