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How to Grow Bachelor Button

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Bachelor Button (Centaurea cyanus)

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Supplies You'll Need

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Centaurea cyanus
Category flower
Days to Maturity 60 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Low to Moderate

Spacing

9" apart

Depth

0.25" deep

Height

12-30"

Germination

7-14 days

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Seed Saving Guide

Easy
Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow flower heads to dry completely on the plant. Harvest when fluffy seed heads are fully dry.

Processing

Pull seeds from dried flower heads — seeds have a small feathery tail. Dry 1 week in open envelope.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Bachelor buttons cross freely — expect some color variation when growing multiple colors and saving seed.

Seed Storage Supplies

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 56 plants of Bachelor Button. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Bachelor Button Planting Calendar by Zone

Bachelor Button Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Bachelor Button? +

Sow Bachelor Button seeds directly in the garden 2 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Bachelor Button take to grow? +

Bachelor Button typically blooms in about 60 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Bachelor Button indoors or direct sow? +

Bachelor Button does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Bachelor Button need? +

Bachelor Button requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Bachelor Button? +

Space Bachelor Button plants 9 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Bachelor Button need? +

Bachelor Button has low to moderate water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Bachelor Button? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Bachelor Button is rated easy. Allow flower heads to dry completely on the plant. Harvest when fluffy seed heads are fully dry. Pull seeds from dried flower heads — seeds have a small feathery tail. Dry 1 week in open envelope.

How long do Bachelor Button seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Bachelor Button seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Bachelor Button seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Bachelor Button is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Bachelor Button

Classic blue cornflower — one of the easiest annuals to grow. Also called cornflower. Edible blooms. Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects. Self-seeds readily.

Expect your Bachelor Button to be ready for harvest in approximately 60 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.