Susan Grey's blog : Guide to Grow and Care for Scabiosa (Pincushion)

Pincushion flowers, also known as Scabiosa, are easy-to-grow and short-lived perennial flowers that are present in different shades. These flowers are shaped like buttons and have petals that flutter and sway in the breeze. With the correct growing conditions, the blooms of your Pincushion flowers can bloom from the start of the spring to the first frost, even if they might slow down a little bit in the high heat of summer.

Scabiosa grows best in moderate conditions and might need some shade if you live in a region with harsh afternoon sun. One of the best things about the flower is that it is not very fussy about its soil; rather, the soil only needs to be well-draining for perfect blooms. Another strength of the flower is that it is not toxic to animals and humans, which is why it can be planted anywhere.

Basic Instructions for Scabiosa Care

Growing scabiosa successfully involves adhering to certain basic requirements. These perennials usually last for only a short time but still manage to come back for 2-3 years of blooming.

In full sunlight or partial shade, plant or place the flowers if the climatic condition is very hot.
Do not let the plants dry out completely; keep the soil moist but very well-drained, or they will not survive after the first year.
Constantly water young plants and slowly reduce the amount of water as they become older.
Scabiosa tolerates both very cold and very hot climates but would appreciate some shade or more water during the peak of summer.
Fertilizer is not a must, but if the plant receives a balanced fertilizer once every two months, then this might result in more flower production.

Light

Place your scabiosa where it can receive six to eight hours of sunlight daily. Normally, this is a place in full sun, but still, some afternoon shade is okay, especially if the flowers are grown in a very hot summer climate. They will not flourish if planted in a cool, shady area.

Soil

The scabiosa likes moist but well-drained soil. For one season, the plant will bloom and look happy in clay soil, but wet during dormancy will turn the carefree perennial into an annual.

If you have heavy or boggy soil in your yard, it is better to grow your scabiosa in raised beds. Also, the flowers are not picky about the soil pH and can live in a neutral or slightly alkaline mixture.

Water

When your scabiosa flowers are little with their root systems, give them at least an inch of water weekly. Later on, the plants can bear a little drought. Remember, the hotter your climate, the more water they will need; their tolerance for drought goes down in summer.

Temperature and Humidity

As we have mentioned, the flowers grow best in moderate temperatures of early fall, early spring, and early summer. Pincushion flowers do not like being hot and humid, but they can survive the peak summer if they are kept in a shady spot.

We also recommend using the website Yourhomify if you are interested in learning more about the care of Pincushion flowers.

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