Stocks - "Matthiola incana"

Stocks (Matthiola incana) is a cool-season annual known for its fragrant, densely packed blooms in a range of colors. This classic garden plant is perfect for borders, bedding displays, containers, and cut flower gardens, offering a delightful scent and an elegant touch to any garden.

Growing Conditions

Plant Size:

• Height: 30—50 cm
• Width: 20—30 cm

Climate:

• Best suited for autumn, winter, and early spring in South Africa.
• Prefers cool to mild temperatures; struggles in hot, humid summers.
• Grows well in Western Cape, Gauteng, Free State, and cooler regions of KwaZulu-Natal.

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0—7.0).
• Avoid heavy clay; improve drainage with sand and compost.

Sunlight Needs:

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade (at least 4—6 hours of sunlight daily).
• In warmer regions, provide afternoon shade to protect from extreme heat.

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) for winter and early spring flowering.
• In colder areas, plant in late summer for early autumn blooms.

Sowing Seeds:

• Direct Sowing: Sow seeds thinly in prepared beds and lightly cover with soil.
• Seed Trays: Start indoors and transplant when seedlings develop two true leaves.
• Spacing: 20—30 cm apart for good airflow and healthy growth.

Germination Time:

• 7—14 days at temperatures between 15—20°C.
• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.

Watering & Fertilization

Watering:

• Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained.
• Avoid overwatering, as stocks are susceptible to root rot.

Fertilization:

• At Planting: Apply a balanced 3:1:5 or 5:5:5 fertilizer.
• During Growth: Feed every 2 weeks with a liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus (P) to promote flowering.

Mulching:

• Apply a light layer of mulch (straw or bark) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids & Whiteflies — Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars — Remove by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).

Common Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew & Botrytis — Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicide if needed.
• Root Rot — Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Flowering & Maintenance

Bloom Time:

• Late autumn to early spring, depending on planting time.
• Flowers last 2—4 weeks on the plant.

Deadheading & Pruning:

• Remove spent flowers to extend blooming period.
• Trim back old stems to encourage fresh growth.

Fragrance:

• Stocks produce intensely sweet-scented blooms, ideal for gardens and floral arrangements.

Garden Uses & Companion Planting

Companion Plants:

• Pairs well with pansies, violas, snapdragons, dianthus, and alyssum for a vibrant winter-spring display.
• Lavender and rosemary can help deter pests.

Best Uses:

• Bedding plants, border plantings, containers, and cut flowers.
• Ideal for pollinator-friendly gardens due to their strong fragrance.

Why Grow Stocks (Matthiola incana)?

• Highly fragrant, long-lasting blooms in a variety of colors.
• Thrives in South Africa's cool-season climate with minimal maintenance.
• Excellent for cut flower production with a long vase life.

For best results, order your Stocks (Matthiola incana) seeds today and enjoy a spectacular display of color and fragrance in your garden!