Corn spurrey
Spergula arvensis · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant corn spurrey: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Mature size
- 15 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tender, annual
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist, without excess water. This plant appreciates cool but well-drained conditions. Reduce watering during prolonged rainfall to prevent root rot.
Light exposure
Place your corn spurry in full sun or partial shade. It appreciates bright exposure for generous flowering and balanced growth.
Soil
Prefer light, well-drained and slightly acidic soil. Adding compost or peat before planting improves soil structure and the moderate water retention the plant enjoys.
Fertilizing
Balanced fertilizer applied once or twice during the growing period is more than enough. This hardy plant doesn't demand intensive nutrition and thrives in moderately poor soil.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Light pinching of stems at a young stage encourages denser branching and a more compact shape.
Diseases and pests
Watch for excessive moisture that can promote rot or fungal diseases. In overly humid and warm conditions, improve air circulation and reduce watering. Slugs and snails may occasionally damage it.
Did you know?
Corn spurry has long been considered a weed in cereal crops, but it was also cultivated locally as a forage grass for livestock. Its tiny shiny seeds and delicate white flowers give it a subtle charm in wildflower gardens, where it has been observed in Europe for millennia.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.