Intensely fragrant spikes for spring and early summer cutting
| Type | Annual / biennial |
|---|---|
| Zones | All zones (cool season) |
| Sun | Full sun to light shade |
| Height | 18–30 inches |
| Bloom Season | Spring to early summer |
| Vase Life | 7–10 days |
| Start | Start seeds 8 weeks before last frost |
Stock (Matthiola incana) is one of the most fragrant cut flowers you can grow—a spicy-sweet clove scent that fills a room from a single stem. Like snapdragons, stock produces vertical flower spikes and thrives in cool weather, making it a spring garden essential.
'Iron' series is the gold standard for cutting: tall, sturdy stems, large double blooms, and excellent fragrance. Column types produce one strong central spike, while branching types yield multiple shorter stems. For cutting, column types on close spacing give the best results.
Start seeds 8 weeks before last frost. Transplant out 2–3 weeks before last frost—stock handles light freezes. Space 9 inches apart. They want rich, well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Feed lightly every 2–3 weeks. Stock performs poorly in heat—plan it as a spring crop in most climates. In mild-winter zones, fall planting yields early spring blooms.
Cut when half the florets on the spike are open. Stems can be woody—split the bottom inch for better water uptake. Condition in warm water. Vase life is 7–10 days. Change water frequently as stock water can become smelly. See harvest timing.
Use stock as a line flower alongside snapdragons and larkspur, or let it stand alone to fill a room with fragrance. It is a beautiful addition to spring arrangements and wedding bouquets. Pairs well with ranunculus and lisianthus.