Corncockle

The common corncockle used to be a regular feature of our fields, from which it has disappeared, but today it is returning to ornamental gardens. The 'Light Rose' variety stands out for its delicate pastel pink flowers, which open gradually from May until the end of August. This annual reaches a height of sixty to one hundred and twenty centimeters, so provide it with suitable support in the garden bed to prevent its thin stems from breaking in the wind. The delicate appearance of the corncockle pairs perfectly with other wildflowers and gives plantings a natural, relaxed look. It thrives best in full sun or light shade, where its flowers act as an attractant for small pollinators. Direct sowing into the soil is carried out from March to May, and if you want to speed up flowering for the following year, you can also sow in late summer, in August and September. The seeds need darkness to germinate, so they must be gently covered with soil. At a temperature of around sixteen to eighteen degrees, they will germinate within one to two weeks. You will quickly grow to love the corncockle as an excellent cut flower, as it looks very light in a vase and adds airiness to any arrangement.