Cornflower typically blooms for a period of approximately 10 weeks, starting from May and lasting until mid-July. However, there are a few strategies that can be employed to extend the bloom time of cornflowers.
One effective method is deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers from the plant. By regularly deadheading the cornflower, you can encourage it to produce new blooms and prolong the overall flowering period. This process prevents the plant from diverting energy into producing seeds and instead directs it towards creating more flowers. Deadheading is a relatively simple task that can be done by pinching off the faded flowers with your fingers or using a pair of garden shears.
Another technique to prolong the blooming of cornflowers is to sow the seeds on a staggered schedule. By planting new seeds every two weeks, you can ensure a continuous supply of fresh blooms throughout the growing season. This method is particularly useful if you want to enjoy cornflowers in your garden for an extended period or if you plan to use them for cut flowers or drying purposes.
Cornflowers are well-known for their versatility as cut flowers. They add a delightful touch to floral arrangements and can be enjoyed indoors. When using cornflowers as cut flowers, it is best to harvest them when the blooms are fully open but before they start to fade. By removing the flowers at the right time, you can enjoy their beauty and fragrance for an even longer duration.
Aside from being used as fresh cut flowers, cornflowers are also great for drying. Dried cornflowers retain their color and shape, making them ideal for crafts, wreaths, or even potpourri. To dry cornflowers, simply cut the stems when the flowers are in full bloom and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place. Once they are completely dry, you can store them in airtight containers until you are ready to use them.
In my personal experience, I have found that deadheading cornflowers regularly and sowing the seeds in successive batches have been effective methods in prolonging the bloom time of these beautiful flowers. By implementing these techniques, I have been able to enjoy a continuous display of cornflower blooms in my garden throughout the summer months.
To summarize, cornflowers typically bloom for around 10 weeks from May to mid-July. However, by deadheading spent flowers and sowing seeds on a staggered schedule, you can extend their bloom time. Cornflowers are excellent as cut or dried flowers, adding beauty and charm to floral arrangements or crafts.
