Matthiola: A Grower’s Favorite

Matthiola is one of the most beloved crops among growers due to its rapid maturation. With at least 13 hours of daylight, a harvest can be achieved within 10–12 weeks after planting.

It is also one of the earliest cut flowers for cool climates. Its ability to withstand  frosts—down to -5°C to -3°C—makes it ideal for maximizing the growing season. Florists highly value Matthiola for its wide range of colors and distinctive fragrance.

Soil and Growing Conditions

Matthiola thrives in cool weather (April–May or early September - October for central Europe) and performs best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0, in full sun.

Drip irrigation is recommended to prevent petal spotting and reduce the risk of diseases. Using agricultural fabric helps keep the soil cool, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds. Matthiola can be grown both in open fields and in greenhouses.

Growing Process

Direct sowing is not recommended; transplanting seedlings is the most reliable method, especially if you want predominantly double-flowered blooms.

For central Europe, sow seeds for seedlings in late March (8–10 weeks before the last frost) for an early spring harvest or mid-August for an autumn harvest.

Early spring sowing is best done in heated or unheated greenhouses or tunnels.

Sow seeds at a rate of 2 seeds per cell at a depth of 0.5 cm in 128-cell trays, flats, or larger trays (up to 72 cells). Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite to retain moisture. Keep the seeds evenly moist until germination.

Seeds germinate in 7–10 days at temperatures of 18–24°C. Ensure good air circulation, avoid letting the seedlings dry out, and prevent overly wet soil conditions.

Achieving Only Double-Flowering Plants

Matthiola produces either single or double flowers due to its genetics. Most modern varieties yield at least 50% double-flowered blooms, while the rest are single-flowered. Some varieties are labeled “selectable,” meaning that shortly after germination, you can distinguish and discard single-flowering seedlings, leaving only those that will produce double flowers.

Double-flowered stems are more desirable and valuable, so growers often cull single-flowered plants during the selection process.

Preparing Seedlings for Selection:

After germination, when seedlings are still in the cotyledon stage, expose them to temperatures of 4–7°C for 3–4 days. A floral cooler is ideal for this chilling process. If a cooler is unavailable, a household refrigerator will suffice. Reduce or halt watering during this period.

Characteristics of Double-Flowering Seedlings:

• Light green color
• Large, oval cotyledons
• Taller seedlings
• Faster germination and growth

Characteristics of Single-Flowering Seedlings:

• Dark green color
• Deformed or fused cotyledons
• Shorter seedlings with smaller cotyledons

Transplanting

Transplant Matthiola seedlings into open ground or a greenhouse when they reach the 4–5 true leaf stage. Space plants 15 cm apart. Avoid overgrowing or letting seedlings fully fill their cell trays, as this can lead to shorter stems during blooming. Ensure the soil remains moist during the first week after transplanting to allow the plants to establish roots properly. Drip irrigation is best for maintaining optimal soil moisture.

Pinching

Matthiola varieties are divided into two types: single-stemmed and branching.

The Quartet Series by Johnny’s Seeds is an example of a branching variety that does not require pinching.

For branching varieties, pinch the shoot with the flower cluster as soon as it forms (typically around 8–9 weeks). The exact timing depends on the growing temperature, as cooler temperatures slow growth.

Pests

As a member of the brassica family, Matthiola is susceptible to the same pests. Aphids are among the most common pests. A strong jet of water can remove them, or you can apply an insecticide like Fitoverm.

This product is also effective against whiteflies and thrips, which can cause unsightly foliage and, in rare cases, reduced yields.

Harvesting

Harvest flowers when 1/3–1/2 of the blooms on a stem are open. With proper care, Matthiola can last up to a week in a vase.

The flowers are also edible, with a peppery, clove-like flavor that makes them an attractive garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages.

Discover our updated Matthiola Collection