How to grow Cornflower in the UK
Centaurea cyanus
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Wildlife favourite. Black Ball is a moody dark variety; classic blue is cottage garden gold. This guide covers when and how to sow Cornflower, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Cornflower
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep Sow | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Any reasonable, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun for most; some tolerate light shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm (check light requirement)
- Spacing
- 15–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow under cover late winter–spring, or direct after the last frost
- Growing
- Water regularly; pinch tips for bushier plants
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead often to prolong flowering
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on seedlings; aphids on soft growth
Companion planting for Cornflower
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Cornflower to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Cornflower FAQs
When should I sow Cornflower in the UK?
In the UK, sow Cornflower in April, September. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
How much sun does Cornflower need?
Cornflower prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Cornflower easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Wildlife favourite. Black Ball is a moody dark variety; classic blue is cottage garden gold.