Growing scabiosa from seed is actually quite easy, whether you choose to plant annual or perennial varieties. As someone who has tried my hand at gardening and landscaping, I can say that scabiosa seeds are a joy to work with compared to some other plants.
One of the reasons why scabiosa is not hard to grow from seed is because of the nature of its seeds. The seeds are papery and shuttlecock-shaped, which makes them large and easy to handle. Unlike tiny and fiddly seeds like those of foxglove or poppy, scabiosa seeds are much more manageable.
To start growing scabiosa from seed, you will first need to prepare your soil. Scabiosa prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to amend your soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This will help improve the soil structure and provide nutrients for the plants.
Once your soil is ready, you can sow the scabiosa seeds directly into the ground or in containers. If sowing directly into the ground, make sure to space the seeds about 6-8 inches apart to allow room for the plants to grow. If using containers, fill them with a good quality potting mix and scatter the seeds on the surface, lightly pressing them into the soil.
Scabiosa seeds need light to germinate, so avoid covering them with too much soil. A thin layer of soil or vermiculite on top should be sufficient. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause the seeds to rot.
Germination usually takes around 2-3 weeks, but it can vary depending on the conditions. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out if necessary, leaving the strongest ones to grow. This will give the remaining plants enough space and resources to thrive.
As the scabiosa plants grow, make sure to provide them with adequate sunlight. They prefer full sun, but can tolerate some light shade. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, to keep the plants healthy and blooming.
Annual scabiosa plants will flower in their first year, while perennial varieties may take a bit longer to establish before blooming. However, once established, perennial scabiosa plants can provide many years of beautiful blooms.
In terms of maintenance, scabiosa plants are relatively low-maintenance. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding, if that is a concern for you. Pruning back the plants in late fall or early spring can help promote healthy growth.
Growing scabiosa from seed is not hard at all. The large, papery seeds are easy to handle and the plants are relatively low-maintenance. Whether you choose annual or perennial varieties, scabiosa can add beauty and charm to your garden with its delicate flowers and long-lasting blooms.
