Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa) Imperial Mix

Pincushion flowers (Scabiosa) flourish in well-draining, loamy or sandy soil rich in organic matter, ideally with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). They are sun-loving plants, requiring a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. While they appreciate full sun, in regions with intense summer heat, a bit of afternoon shade can help protect them from sunburn and excessive heat. Ensuring these soil and sunlight conditions are met is essential for the health and vibrancy of pincushion flowers, which, when cultivated in the right environment, reward garden enthusiasts with their distinctive, pincushion-like blossoms, attracting pollinators and enhancing the natural beauty of the garden.

Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Press seeds 1/4" deep into prepared garden bed. Press 3-4 seeds in a group, spacing groups 9-12" apart in all directions. Keep well-watered until germination has occurred. Thin to one plant per group once established. Make 2-3 successive sowings to have blooms all summer and fall.

Pincushion flower can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplanted outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Space plants 9-12" apart in all directions.

Scabiosa make ideal cut flowers with an average vase life of 7 to 10 days when floral preservative is used. Dead-heading the plants will encourage a longer bloom period and successive plantings will ensure that fresh flowers are produced all summer and fall.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Unless multiple varieties of scabiosa are being grown, isolation is usually not necessary.

HARVESTING SEED:

Allow flowers to mature and form seed heads. Watch the seed heads as they dry and harvest just as some seeds are beginning to "shatter" or fall off the plant. At this point, cut the mature heads and store in a paper bag or other ventilated container to finish drying. Rub seed heads between hands to release the seeds and store in an airtight container until ready to use.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Scabiosa seeds will remain viable for up to three years when stored under ideal conditions.