Stock (Yellow) Plant
Stock Yellow (Matthiola incana) is a classic cool-season annual known for its tall spikes of fragrant, bright yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. These 3" potted starters are ideal for adding vibrant color and a spicy-sweet scent to garden beds, borders, containers, or cut flower arrangements. Easy to grow in cooler climates, they attract pollinators and require minimal maintenance once established.
Plant Specifications and Attributes
- Plant Size: 12-36 inches tall, with a spread of 12-18 inches.
- Spacing: 9-18 inches apart for individual plants, or 6 inches for clumps.
- Sun Exposure: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot summers.
- Hardiness Zone: USDA zones 7-10 as a perennial; grown as an annual or biennial in cooler zones (suitable for zones 6a-10b). In Salt Lake City, Utah (typically zone 6-7), treat as an annual for best results.
- Bloom Period: Late spring to mid-summer, lasting 4-6 weeks under ideal cool conditions.
Description
Stock Yellow features dense, columnar spikes of double or single bright yellow flowers with a strong, clove-like fragrance that perfumes the garden. Native to the Mediterranean, this variety thrives in cool weather and is often planted in early spring or fall for extended blooming. The plants have a bushy habit with gray-green foliage, making them excellent for mixed borders, cottage gardens, or as filler in floral designs. They are heat-sensitive, so plant early to avoid bolting in warm temperatures. Attracts butterflies and bees while being deer-resistant due to its scent.
Transplanting Instructions
- Wait until after the last frost date (typically mid-May in Salt Lake City) and harden off the potted plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days.
- Choose a site with well-drained, fertile soil (pH 6.0-7.5) amended with organic matter.
- Dig a hole slightly larger than the 3" pot, remove the plant carefully to avoid root disturbance, and place it at the same soil level as in the pot.
- Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly to settle the roots. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- Space plants 9-18 inches apart, and water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.