Growing Old Fashioned Evening Stock

The different varieties allow them to be used in planters, window boxes, hanging baskets, and flower beds. Plant them near a window, deck or porch where you can enjoy the fragrance. You can mix different varieties of stock for a colorful grouping.

In cold climates seeds can be sown very early. In warmer climates sow in the autumn and they will bloom in late winter. The seeds germinate best below 60 degrees F. Stock prefers well-drained soil in a sunny location. The seeds need light to germinate, so work the soil and pick over for rocks and debris, then sow them 1/4 inch deep. Later when the plants have grown, pinch them out in the middle to encourage a bushier growth habit.

Matthiola incana has different varieties, including an annual variety that can tolerate a light frost. The stock with double blooms is especially pretty. Combine stock with other annuals or even consider adding it around your vegetable garden for a fragrant treat when weeding.