Sowing and Growing Flax

Flax (linum) is a plant from the flax family (linaceae). It is a plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Flax can be grown both for ornamental and for the fibres, which can be used to make linen, or for the seeds, which are used to make linseed. Flax flowers are usually light blue, purple, pink, red or white, and the plant can grow to a height of 30-90 cm. Flax can also be used as green manure, because of its dense root system that improves the soil structure and loosens the heavy soil.

Growing and sowing flax

Flax (linum) is a plant that has been used for thousands of years to produce the fibers for linen and the seeds for linseed oil. The plant is native to the Middle East, but is now grown worldwide in temperate climates, particularly in countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and China. But flax is also very suitable as a garden plant and blooms with beautiful flowers. The flowers are usually red, but there are also varieties that bloom white, red or pink. There are different types of flax, such as the Linum usitatissimum, which is mainly grown for its fibres and seeds, and Linum grandiflorum, which is grown as an ornamental plant and not for the production of fibres or oil.

Sowing flax seeds

Sowing is best done directly in the ground, in a sunny, well-drained spot, from mid-March to June (or later for some varieties). Press the seeds only lightly and keep the soil slightly moist until the plants emerge.

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Location and soil for Flax Flowers

Flax needs a well-drained soil, such as sandy soil, loamy soil and light clay soil, to prevent root rot.  Full sun is ideal for the richest flowering, but light partial shade is also possible. Avoid places with bright midday sun or directly against walls, as the plant dries out faster.

How to care for your flax plants

Flax needs little care after sowing or planting. Only water during dry periods, especially if the plant is in full sun. Too much water can damage the roots. Fertilization is not necessary.

Is flax bee and/or butterfly friendly?

Flax is insect-friendly. The flower attracts bees, bumblebees and butterflies, among others. In addition, the seeds (linseed) are food for birds in winter after flowering.

Flax in the vegetable garden

Flax can be grown in a vegetable garden. Both the ornamental plant, but also the species for harvesting the seeds (linseed) and the fibers, which can be made into rope. In addition, the petals of many varieties are edible and can be used as a garnish, for example. Flax can also be used as green manure.

Is flax edible and/or medicinal?

The seeds (linseed) and the petals are edible of many species. Take a good look at the species. Flax is considered medicinal due to the many health benefits of flaxseed and flaxseed oil, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. These substances are said to help with digestion and protect against cardiovascular disease.

Please note, we at Dutch Garden Seeds do not give medical advice. Always ask a professional if and how the plant can be used medicinally.

Flax seeds in our collection

We have different types of flax seeds in our range, including organic seeds from the brand 'Buzzy Organic Seeds'.

Tips for sowing flax seeds

• Do not sow flax on areas where flax or peas have already been grown the year before.
• Do not fertilize the plants, this negatively affects growth and flowering.

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