Tenweeks Stock
Matthiola incanaUSDA | Grow Zone
7-10Outdoors all year in zones 7 to 10. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Every 3-5 days
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 1-2 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Tenweeks Stock, or Matthiola incana, is a charming annual known for its fragrant blooms and vibrant colors. Native to the Mediterranean, it is cherished for its ability to attract pollinators and add beauty to gardens.
Ask Vesper about Tenweeks Stock
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 1-2 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 12-18 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Tenweeks Stock prefers consistently moist soil, requiring watering every 3-5 days during the growing season.
In hotter months, increase frequency to every 2-3 days. Ensure the top inch of soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and a mushy stem, while under-watering leads to wilting and dry, crispy leaves.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement includes a south-facing window or garden bed with unobstructed light. It can tolerate partial shade but may result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix is essential, ideally a blend of loamy soil with added perlite or sand to enhance drainage.
The pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
Tenweeks Stock prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidity tray nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting flowers.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Tenweeks Stock is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate light frost. Protect from extreme heat above 85°F (29°C) and cold temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves (nitrogen), poor flowering (phosphorus), and stunted growth (potassium).
Pruning
Prune Tenweeks Stock after flowering to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading spent flowers can promote further blooming and improve the plant's appearance.
Repotting
Repot Tenweeks Stock every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its pot, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix, ensuring the crown is at the soil level.
Propagation
Propagation is best achieved through seeds.
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist soil and keep them warm and well-lit until germination occurs, which usually takes 7-14 days.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering accordingly. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Wilting flowers
Why it happens
Insufficient water or high temperatures can lead to wilting.
How to fix it
Ensure consistent watering and provide shade during extreme heat.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch towards the light source.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Powdery mildew
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation can lead to this fungal disease.
How to fix it
Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering or poorly draining soil can cause roots to rot.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and ensure proper drainage in the pot.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prepare the soil by adding compost and ensure proper drainage. Start seeds indoors or transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost.
Summer
During summer, monitor watering closely, especially in hot weather. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as temperatures drop and prepare the plant for cooler weather. Consider bringing potted plants indoors if frost is expected.
Winter
In winter, Tenweeks Stock may go dormant. Reduce watering and avoid fertilizing. Protect outdoor plants from frost and cold winds.
Toxicity & Safety
Tenweeks Stock is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for households. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Tenweeks Stock?
Water Tenweeks Stock every 3-5 days, increasing to every 2-3 days in hot weather. Ensure the top inch of soil dries out between waterings.
What light conditions are best for Tenweeks Stock?
Tenweeks Stock thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming.
How can I propagate Tenweeks Stock?
Propagate Tenweeks Stock by sowing seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden after frost. Keep soil moist until germination.
What should I do if my Tenweeks Stock has yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and adjust watering, and consider fertilizing if needed.
When is the best time to prune Tenweeks Stock?
Prune Tenweeks Stock after flowering to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves for a healthier appearance.
Is Tenweeks Stock toxic to pets?
No, Tenweeks Stock is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for family gardens.
What are the signs of root rot in Tenweeks Stock?
Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a mushy stem. Ensure proper watering practices to prevent this issue.
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