Bachelor Buttons
Bachelor Buttons
August 29, 2024
Introduction
Have you been wanting to grow edible flowers, then I have the plant for you - the Bachelor Button. This little guy can thrive in even the toughest of environments, from the tiniest of windowsills to the grittiest of fire escapes. They come in different colors - blue, white, pink, red, and even black. You’re going to love adding these dainty petals to your soups and salads.
The What
Bachelor buttons, also known as cornflowers, are delightful flowers that bring a splash of vibrant color to any garden. Their attractive blue petals are not only beautiful but also edible, making them a charming addition to salads, soups, and desserts. These flowers are easy to grow from seed and require minimal maintenance, meaning they don't need a lot of care. They are drought-resistant (able to survive with little water) once established and attract helpful pollinators like bees and butterflies. Bachelor buttons also self-seed, which means they drop seeds that grow into new plants, providing blooms year after year
The Why
Growing bachelor buttons in NYC is a wonderful way to elevate your urban garden with ease. Perfect for containers on balconies, rooftops, and terraces, these flowers not only add beauty but also offer edible petals for a gourmet touch to your meals. They thrive in various soil conditions and require minimal care, ideal for the busy urban lifestyle. Pair them with arugula, lettuce, and radishes to make the most of your small garden space. Start growing bachelor buttons today and enjoy a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden and delicious, home-grown produce, all while adding a touch of elegance to your city life.
Sunlight Requirements
Bachelor buttons require 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily indoors, outdoors and hydroponically.
Water Requirements
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist. Indoors, air can dry soil quickly; outdoors, water regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Temperature Tolerance
Bachelor buttons are a cool weather crop and thrive in 60-75°F. Plant seeds outdoors in early spring (March to April) and the fall (August to September) in NYC. Indoors: year round, ideally in 60-70°F.
Container Size
Indoors: 6-8" wide, 6" deep, 1 gallon; Outdoors: 8-10" wide, 8-10" deep, 2-3 gallons
Best Soil Mix
Bachelor buttons thrive in well-draining potting soil with organic compost or worm castings.
How to Add Fertilizer
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Moderate feeding supports continuous flowering.
Growth Duration
Bachelor buttons are annuals and are ready for harvest 70-90 days after planting, or when the flowers are fully open. Bachelor buttons tend to live 4-6 months. Outdoors, their life cycle ends once the summer heat sets in or when the first frost arrives.
How To Trim
Harvest flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Regular picking promotes continuous flowering, ensuring a supply of colorful, edible blooms.
Growing Challenges
Wilting: Water regularly, avoid overwatering. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release ladybugs. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer, ensure enough light. Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Water less, use fungicide.
Interesting Facts
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