Stock in Zone 5a & 5b
Matthiola incana
When to plant stock in zone 5b
Zones 5a and 5b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.
Method: Start indoors: Start indoors from seed, then transplant outside. Stock needs a head start most zones can't give it by direct-sowing alone.
| Start indoors | Mar 29–Apr 5 |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | May 10–May 17 |
| Estimated bloom | Jul 29–Aug 5 (~80 days after transplanting) |
Spacing: 2 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 2-2.5 ft.
Stock produces dense, fragrant flower spikes in a wide color range, prized as a cut flower for both the look and the scent. It's a member of the brassica family, related to cabbage and broccoli, which shows up in the pests it has to deal with more than in its appearance.
How stock fits zone 5's season
Zone 5b's frost-free window runs about 148 days, from May 10 to October 5. Stock needs about 80 days from transplant to first harvest.
Good companions
No standout companions recorded yet for Stock.
Where to buy stock seeds
See why we recommend these suppliers →
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See it growing
Search YouTube for "growing stock" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)
← Back to the full zone 5b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Stock in USDA zone 5b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a bloom.
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