What are Bachelor’s Buttons?
Bachelor’s Buttons, also known as Cornflowers, are these charming, dainty flowers that come in various colors, though the most iconic is the vivid blue. I remember the first time I saw them in a garden; their simple beauty caught my eye immediately. They have these ruffled petals and a slightly wild look, which gives them a lovely, unpretentious charm.
Cornflower vs Bachelor Button
These two flowers are often mistaken for each other in gardens. I’ve grown both, and while their delicate blue hues are similar, Bachelor Buttons have a slightly wilder, more carefree vibe compared to the refined petals of Cornflowers.
Cornflower vs Chicory
Chicory‘s bold, almost purplish blue against the delicate sky blue of Cornflowers creates a striking contrast in my garden. I love how they complement each other—Chicory’s robustness alongside Cornflower’s airy elegance.
Cornflower vs Periwinkle
In my experience, Cornflowers are brighter and more vivid in their blue hue compared to the subtle, almost serene blue of Periwinkles. Both are beautiful in their own right, but Cornflowers catch your eye instantly.
Is Bachelor’s Button invasive?
In my experience, Bachelor’s Buttons can be invasive if they’re not managed properly. They tend to self-seed prolifically, which means they can spread quickly and pop up in areas where you might not want them. I’ve had to pull out quite a few unexpected seedlings from my vegetable garden because they can easily take over if left unchecked.
How to grow Bachelor’s Buttons?
Growing Bachelor’s Buttons is fairly straightforward, even for a novice gardener like me. They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. I usually sow the seeds directly into the garden bed in early spring, and within a few weeks, they start sprouting. They’re pretty low maintenance; occasional watering and deadheading spent flowers are usually all they need to keep blooming beautifully.
Are Bachelor’s Button Blue Boy poisonous?
As for whether the Blue Boy variety of Bachelor’s Buttons is poisonous, I’ve read that they’re generally considered safe and non-toxic. I’ve never had any issues with pets or kids around them, which is a relief because they’re often within reach in the garden.
Are Bachelor’s Button flowers annuals?
Bachelor’s Buttons are typically annuals, which means they complete their life cycle in one growing season. This makes them a favorite in my garden for their quick burst of color. They sprout, bloom, set seed, and die within the same year, although they sometimes reseed themselves if conditions are right.
Are Bachelor’s Buttons edible?
Yes, Bachelor’s Buttons are edible, and I love adding them to salads for a splash of color. The petals have a slightly spicy, clove-like flavor, which can add a unique twist to dishes. They also make a beautiful garnish for desserts and cocktails, elevating the presentation with their vibrant hues.
Are Blue Bachelor’s Buttons deer resistant?
In my experience, Blue Bachelor’s Buttons are somewhat deer resistant. While no plant is completely deer-proof, I’ve noticed that these flowers are not typically their first choice. Deer might nibble on them occasionally, but they usually prefer other plants, leaving my Bachelor’s Buttons relatively untouched.
Can you grow Bachelor’s Button in Colorado Springs?
I live in Colorado Springs, and I’ve successfully grown Bachelor’s Buttons here. The climate and soil conditions are quite favorable for them. They handle the cool springs well and don’t seem to mind the drier conditions as long as they get regular watering.
How did Bachelor’s Button flower get its name?
The name Bachelor’s Button is believed to come from the tradition of bachelors wearing the flower in their buttonholes during the 19th century to signal their availability. I find this bit of history quite charming, imagining a young man with a bright blue flower pinned to his jacket as a silent signal of his romantic status.
How hard is it to control Bachelor’s Buttons?
Controlling Bachelor’s Buttons can be a bit of a challenge because they self-seed so easily. In my garden, I make sure to deadhead them regularly, which not only prolongs blooming but also reduces the number of seeds that can spread. If they do get out of hand, they’re pretty easy to pull out, so managing them isn’t too daunting.
How long do Bachelor’s Buttons bloom?
Bachelor’s Buttons bloom for a relatively long time, especially if you keep up with deadheading. In my garden, they usually start flowering in late spring and continue well into the summer. Their extended blooming period is one of the reasons I love having them around; they keep the garden colorful for months.
How to eat Bachelor’s Buttons?
When it comes to eating Bachelor’s Buttons, I simply pluck the petals and scatter them over salads or desserts. They add a lovely, colorful touch and a slight spiciness that complements many dishes. I’ve also seen them used in herbal teas and as a natural food coloring, though I haven’t tried those myself yet.
When does Bachelor’s Button bloom?
Bachelor’s Buttons typically start blooming in late spring and can continue to bloom throughout the summer. In my garden, they usually begin around May and can keep going until August if the conditions are right and I keep up with the deadheading. Their long blooming season makes them a delightful and reliable addition to my garden every year.
