Bola Preta Cornflower

Sow cornflower seeds outdoors where they are to grow from March to April. Choose a position in full sun on well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, at a depth of 3mm in drills spaced 30cm apart. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. Germination usually takes around 7-12 days. When cornflower seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 15cm apart.

Alternatively, grow cornflowers indoors from August to September for early summer flowering next year. Sow cornflowers on the surface of a good quality seed compost at a temperature of 18-20C and cover with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant and grow them on in cooler conditions until large enough to move outdoors. Overwinter cornflowers plants in cool, light, frost-free conditions before planting out the following spring, or growing on as greenhouse pot plants.

Do cornflowers come back every year?
Cornflowers really are a beautiful flower to look at. They are good value too since the display they create can keep on going for several months. Once established in a bed, cornflowers will self-seed and return year after year, bringing enduring cheer in a low maintenance area of the garden.

What time of year do cornflowers bloom?
Cornflowers are nice additions to all but the most formal gardens. Peak bloom time is May through mid-summer, but you may be able to prolong the blooms with frequent deadheading. They have a somewhat bushy base with lots of long stems jutting out the top of the plant.

Do you deadhead cornflowers?
Deadhead cornflower plants through the blooming season, from late winter thorough spring in mild climates. Remove the flower and stem back to the set of leaves directly below it. This encourages more flowers and prevents self-seeding.

Do cornflowers smell?
Cornflowers smell wonderful–green, earthy, with a subtle peppery note. It's a way to sharpen our sense of smell, but also just to enjoy the fragrance hobby in a different way.

Is cornflower good for skin?
The anthocyanins in cornflowers have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so using cornflowers will help with tired, itchy and puffy eyes. Skin benefits come from cornflower's cooling and toning properties and for that reason this lovely herb is often used in cosmetics to firm mature and crepey skin.

Read the most frequently asked questions about Cornflower seeds