Cornflowers, also known as Centaurea cyanus, are exquisite wildflowers that instantly captivate with their vibrant blue petals. Delicate and charming, these blooms evoke a sense of natural beauty and nostalgia. With their warm and welcoming presence, cornflowers bring a touch of joy to any garden or floral arrangement.
Planting Calendar
Cornflowers can be planted throughout spring - autumn.
Prepare
Cornflowers are well suited to cottage gardens, grown in boarders of in containers. Great for picking and a must have to bring bees into the garden. They are also a great addition to the salad bowl or used as a garnish in cooking as the petals are edible.
Position
Cornflowers prefer a position in full sun, with some protection from strong winds.
Soil
When planted into the ground cornflowers prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets, then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Spraying
If aphids are present spray with Aquaticus Bugtrol.
Pruning
Remove dead flowers to promote new growth and more flowers.
Expert Tip
Cornflowers will self seed. Allow some flowers to go to seed then sprinkle in garden beds for free plants next season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cornflowers come in other colours than blue?
Yes they do, you can get white, pink and purple as well.
How often should I water Cornflowers?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
When is the best time to plant Cornflowers?
The best time to plant Cornflowers is in early spring or autumn, as they prefer cooler temperatures to establish roots.
Are Cornflowers prone to any pests or diseases?
Cornflowers are generally hardy but can be susceptible to aphids and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and proper spacing can help prevent these issues.
Do Cornflowers attract pollinators?
Cornflowers are excellent for attracting bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden focused on supporting pollinators.