Stock in Zone 9a & 9b
Matthiola incana
When to plant stock in zone 9b
Zones 9a and 9b 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 | Jan 4–Jan 11 |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | Feb 15–Feb 22 |
| Estimated bloom | May 6–May 13 (~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 9's season
Zone 9b's frost-free window runs about 293 days, from February 15 to December 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 9b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →

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Growing Stock in USDA zone 9b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a bloom.
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