Transplant (recommended) - Sow 4-6 weeks before planting out. Barely cover as light aids germination. Transplant to larger containers when the first true leaves appear. In the greenhouse, grow transplants at 50-55°F (10-13°C) to keep the plants from stretching. Harden off and transplant outside after the last frost.

Direct seed - Successive plantings every 2-3 weeks until late spring give the best quality flowers and pods. May require support.

Harvest

Scabiosa atropurpurea: Flowers almost fully open.

Scabiosa stellata: Fresh-cut or dried: Harvest when seed heads are light green with dark-bronze edges and the star-shaped centers are just turning black. If harvested after the centers have fully turned, or begun to fall out, the seed head will shatter and will not be useful.