Cornflower Growing Guide

Centaurea cyanus

Cornflower

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Any good garden soil.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Young cornflower seedlings can tolerate freezing temperatures, so seeds can be planted in early spring, or in the autumn where winters are mild.

Feeding

Fast growth is encouraged by mixing a balanced organic fertiliser into the soil before planting.

Companions

Cornflowers have an upright posture that helps them fit in tight spaces. Intersperse throughout the garden, as cornflower nectar is unusually sweet, and thus a preferred food source for many beneficial insects.

Spacing

Single Plants: 20cm (7") each way (minimum)
Rows: 20cm (7") with 20cm (7") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Sow cornflowers from early to mid spring for early summer bloom. Also sow in fall in climates with mild winters. Plant seeds in soil or in containers about 2 inches (5 cm) apart and one-half inch (1 cm) deep. Thin to 8 inches (20 cm) apart in all directions.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Rice-size cornflower seeds are much loved by goldfinches and other small seed-eating birds.

Harvesting

Cornflowers make good cut flowers. Pull up the plants in mid to late summer, when they no longer look attractive.

Troubleshooting

Cornflowers may be nibbled by rabbits, especially in early spring when other food is scarce.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Cornflower