The cottage garden would not be complete without Stock flowers. They are sweetly scented heirloom flowers that are great for cutting and drying and make lovely additions to arrangements. They were known as gilly flowers during the Victorian age, and the spiky stems with clusters of flowers are edible and can be used in salads. The plant is actually in the Brassica family.

Start Stock flower seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to the end of frost season for transplanting out once frost danger has passed.

Stock flowers will thrive in full sun and in some partial shade. If it's possible, a position where the plants receive morning sun and afternoon shade is best. The plants prefer rich, well-drained soil with a neutral pH.

• Fill pots or starter trays with moistened seed starting soil
• Light is required for germination so press the seeds into the soil and barely cover
• Mist the surface to ensure the seeds stay moist, but do not saturate the soil
• Grow Stock in a sunny room with temperatures of 65 - 70F
• Once the seedling is several inches in height, pinch out growing tips to promote branching
• As the end of frost season approaches, harden the Stock plants off for 7 - 10 days prior to transplanting out
• Ideally, young Stock plants will experience cool night time temperatures of 60F and below - this is needed for setting buds

• Water regularly during hot periods, but do not over water - the leaves will turn yellow
• Avoid getting water on the leaves to help prevent fungal diseases
• Mulch around the base of the plants to help suppress weed growth and to help keep the roots cool
• Deadhead spent blooms to tidy the plant and to help promote new blooms