Dwarf Bachelor Button – Cornflower – Centaurea Cyanus
Cool‑season crop for spring/fall. Sow shallow and keep soil evenly moist to prevent bolting.
At a glance
| Sowing method | both |
|---|---|
| Germination temp (°F) | 45–75 |
| Germination (days) | 4–10 |
| Direct sow min soil temp (°F) | 40 |
| Sowing depth (in) | 0.25 |
| Plant spacing (in) | 12 |
| Row spacing (in) | 18 |
| Sunlight | full sun to part shade |
| Watering | Average moisture; avoid soggy soils. |
| Days to maturity | 35–60 |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Temp tolerance (mature, °F) | 28–95 |
Will not germinate below 40°F. Will not germinate above 95°F.
Environment & Pre‑treatment
No stratification; can be fall‑sown where winters are mild.
Stratification = a cold, moist period that breaks dormancy. Scarification = nicking/scratching seed coat or hot‑water soak to speed sprouting.
Planting instructions
Direct sow early spring; thin to 8–12 in; pinch for bushier plants.
Detailed planting instructions
Timing: Direct sow early spring; thin 8–12 in. Water: Average; avoid saturated soils. Care: Pinch for bushiness; deadhead.
Common problems & how to fix them
Powdery mildew
Symptoms: White coating later
Cause: Humidity/poor airflow
Fix/avoid: Space plants; water soil only
Aphids
Symptoms: Sticky honeydew
Cause: Sap-feeders
Fix/avoid: Rinse; insecticidal soap
Harvesting
Cut when flowers are fully colored; remove spent blooms.