Cornflower

Organic Blue Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) Seeds

Cornflowers are an annual wildflower that was once widespread in Ireland, often growing as a ‘weed’ in fields of grain (such as corn). In its native form it is now almost extinct here except for a few pockets where it still grows wild. Cultivated varieties such as this can bring a splash of bright blue to the garden as well as providing a delicious source of nectar for pollinators.

Characteristics:

• Annual
• Flowers: 50-90 cm

Growing schedule: Sow direct outdoors from March to May for flowering between June and September. For a continuous display, make sowings at two to three-week intervals. Alternatively, sow between August and October for an earlier flowering the following year.

Sowing depth: 0.5 – 1 cm

Planting distance: Thin to 20 x 20cm.

Growing conditions: Cornflowers grow easily and are not demanding. They will thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

Ongoing care: Removing the dead flower heads will prolong flowering and also limit self-seeding.

Harvest: For cut flowers, wait until the upper flower has opened before harvesting.

Number of seeds: Each packet contains approximately 300 organic seeds, enough for 200 plants.