Emperor Cornflower Mix

Centaurea imperialis - mix

Originally from Europe and Asia. They are undemanding to grow. Belong to the Asteraceae family. Commonly grows in fields and meadows. However, in horticulture, a cultivar is used whose flowers are larger, growth more vigorous and denser. Perennial species can last for many years in the bed. Blooms from June to August, grows up to 90 cm tall. Leaves are lanceolate, narrow, grey-green. Attracts butterflies and bees. Excellent for cutting and drying. In beds, you can pair it with irises or ornamental garlic.

How to grow cornflower

• Requires a sunny location with full direct sun. Tolerates lightly shaded locations. Requires a warm and dry location. Maintain regular watering, make sure the soil doesn't become too acidic, as cornflowers prefer more alkaline conditions.

• Sow cornflower seeds in March in a greenhouse and maintain them at a stable temperature around 20 degrees with adequate watering. After frosts, plant out in location. Imperial cornflower can be sown directly in location.

• Well-drained, humus-rich soil with sufficient calcium.

• If the soil is rich in nutrients, we don't fertilize cornflower regularly. Use fertilizers with limestone content instead.

• Cornflowers can be attacked by fungal mildews and diseases such as powdery mildew or grey mould (Botrytis blight). Treat affected plants with fungicidal preparations. Nematodes may also appear, which can be eliminated by planting Marigold (Tagetes sp.), which repels nematodes.