Scabiosa Seeds - Oxford Blue

(Scabiosa atropurpurea) Annual. 95 days to maturity.

Stunning, dahlia-like blooms. Plants are 2-3 feet tall and stems are perfect for flower arrangements. These abundant blue flowers will welcome plenty of friendly insects to your garden, even into the Fall.

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Growth Habit:  Upright growth to 3 feet height, with tall, straight stems, and 1-3” flowers. Cold-hardy annual. May require support of stakes or a trellis. 

Sun Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Rich, well drained soil 

When to Plant: Direct seed after last frost date OR start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date. 

How to Plant:  

Direct sow: sow seeds on soil surface after the last frost. Cover only lightly with soil as seeds need light to germinate. Seeds should germinate in 12-14 days. Thin young plants to 1 foot apart. 

Transplant: Sow seeds on soil surface and cover only very lightly with soil, as seeds need light to germinate.  Seeds should germinate in 12-14 days. Transplant into larger containers when true leaves appear. Harden off and transplant after the risk of frost has passed. Space plants 1 foot apart. 

When / How to Harvest: Harvest in Summer and into Fall when flowers are almost fully open.

Uses: Oxford Blue Scabiosa makes a stunning cut flower, but is equally gorgeous left in the garden. 

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