I have always loved the old fashioned look and sweet-spicy scent of stock flowers (Matthiola incana), but never noticed them for sale or thought about actually growing my own. Since the weather has been so lovely I have been cruising around my favorite nurseries; The Natural Gardener, Barton Springs, and The Great Outdoors. These are all reputable establishments, so I think that maybe they will do well here. I picked up a few at each spot, but must admit that the specimens at NG were truly outstanding. The mass of pink and purple 4 inch pots were truly stunning. Hopefully they will shine in my garden as well. A gardener from San Antonio recommends removing the bottom leaves to prevent fungal problems, I will try this with my plants.
I was also seduced by the lovely ranunculus available right now. Although I am a sucker for the red, I was drawn to this cheerful yellow. I have been told that here in Austin they are treated as annuals, I still hold out the hope of seeing some of them come back.
While few of the ranunculus I planted three years ago naturalized, all the freesia did. I'm trying stock from seed this year.
ReplyDeleteI love freesia, thanks for the tip. Are you direct sowing your stock or starting them indoors first? I am eager to hear how they work out for you.
ReplyDeleteI started them indoors. I start almost all seeds indoors, so I can keep an eye on things (and so I don't forget to water!). I did successfully direct sow turnips, carrots, beets and radishes (though the direct sown spinach didn't make). I'll keep you posted! :)
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