did you know?

This plant's common name, cornflower, refers to the fact that it was once typically found growing amid field-grain crops (generally referred to as corn) in Europe. Other plants named for their association with grain fields are corn-cockle corn poppy and corn marigold

general maintenance:

Deadhead spent blooms to encourage flowering but let some flowers mature for self-sowing.

pests/diseases:

Root rot, stem rot, and powdery mildew may occur.

controls:

Allow soil to dry between waterings or plant in well-drained soil to prevent rot. To discourage powdery mildew, increase air circulation, avoid wetting leaves when watering and remove diseased leaves.

how to sow/plant:

Direct sow in a sunny, well-drained site, after danger of frost has passed. In mild climates, sow in fall. Or start indoors 1/4 inch deep, 3?4 weeks before last frost. Space young plants at a distance equal to their mature spread. Successive sowings will produce continuous blooms.

water and fertilize:

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry between waterings (early morning watering is best). Do not overfertilize because this will lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of blossoms.

garden hint:

Cornflowers bloom more when crowded. If started in hotter weather, plants will be shorter and have fewer flowers.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attracts Butterflies
• Drought Tolerant

garden uses:

• Flowerbed borders
• Naturalizing

other uses:

• Cut Flower
• Everlasting (>use for drying and pressing)

combine with:

other gray-green or silver plants like wormwood Jerusalem sage and lamb's ears ( 'Silver Carpet').