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When can you plant wildflower seeds


Planting Information – Wildseed Farms

We dedicate this part of our website to your success with wildflowers.  If you require additional information or have a unique situation, please contact our customer service department at 830-990-8080.

1. When should I plant?

Wildflower planting dates largely depend on site location and geographic weather patterns.  The planting timetable should be decided by seasonal precipitation in your area rather than by temperature.  Wildflowers can be planted in the fall or early spring throughout all regions of the U.S. In the northern and northeastern geographic regions of the United States, USDA Zones 1 through 6, where extremely harsh winters are experienced, an early spring planting is recommended. In the Southern regions of the United States, USDA Zones 7 through 11, your wildflowers can be sown in early spring if desired.  Note: There are risks associated with an early spring planting in USDA Zones 1 through 11.  Warm spring weather and adequate rainfall will accelerate germination and seedling growth.  However, if rainfall is sporadic after initial germination followed by an extremely hot, dry period, supplemental watering may be required to keep the ground from drying out and the seedling from dying.  Sowing In the southern and western portions of the United States, USDA Zones 7 through 11, the autumn months of September through December are the most favorable to plant your wildflowers.  Many of the species will quickly germinate in order to allow the seedling enough time to establish a healthy root system before going dormant in the winter.  Some of the seeds may not germinate if the ground temperature is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit.  These seeds will remain dormant within the soil until early spring and will begin to emerge under more favorable conditions.  In the northern regions, USDA Zones 1 through 6, your wildflowers can be planted in late fall.  If you decide to plant your seeds in the fall in Zones 1 through 6, the seed will remain dormant during the harsh winter months and germination will begin at the first indication of spring.  NOTE: There are risks in sowing exotic garden varieties and "domesticated" species D in the fall.  Freeze damage may kill these varieties if unseasonably cold temperatures persist for long periods of time.

2. What should I consider when selecting a site for wildflowers?

Placement is a good start! Prior to planing your wildflowers, select a site that will be appropriate for the nature of your project. Improper site selection or planning usually produces unsatisfactory results. Here are some important factors to consider. 

  • Does the chosen site support plants now?  If you have an area that is naturally void of any plants, including unwanted weeds, the area is unlikely to support wildflowers.
  • If rainfall is inadequate during germination and the seedling establishment, can you supply supplemental water if necessary?
  • Does the area receive a minimum of eight hours of direct sunlight per day?
  • Have you determined the existing soil type and drainage within the area?  Poorly drained or heavily compacted soils will produce unsatisfactory results.  Assessment of the important factors will be necessary to ensure your success!

    • 3. How do I start my wildflower seeds?

    Wildflowers are becoming an increasingly popular landscape alternative by adding color and natural beauty to any area. Unlike the typical European-styled formal gardens of straight lines, square corners and manicured edges, wildflower gardens have the appeal of low maintenance by requiring little water and reduced mowing frequency once established. There is a common misconception today that wildflowers are easily grown from seed. Indeed, some species require little more effort than casting the seed on the soil and waiting for growth.  Most wildflowers, however, require specific soil and temperature conditions, a certain degree of ongoing personal attention and most of all, patience.  We have tried, in this catalog, to assist you in your wildflower selection by labeling each species with an average "planting success" rate on a scale of 10% to 100%.  Wildflower species with a lower percentage ratio may require more of your time and attention, but will be worth your effort.  Additional information about the temperament of each species is included within the description.  Unlike ornamental flower or vegetable seeds, most of the wildflower seeds in our catalog have not been genetically altered to achieve specific traits such as rapid germination, height, color or adaptation to specific soil types or climates.  Each species has been tested for purity and germination by an independent laboratory and meets our high standard of quality before we make the seed available to you for planting.  As wildflower enthusiasts, we want to produce in two to three years a display of color to match that which has taken Mother Nature hundreds of years to achieve.  Nature plays an important role in the success or failure of all wildflower plantings.  Adverse weather conditions such as drought, hail, or excessive rainfall-obviously beyond human control-may seriously affect the success of your wildflowers.  Soil or drainage problems in your planting area may also hamper germination of your seeds; interpretation of the best possible planting area is the customer's responsibility.  At Wildseed Farms we are anxious for your success with wildflower gardening.  Additional help and technical advice is available simply by calling our toll free number (800) 848-0078.  We cannot, however, assume liability for the results obtained based on advice given, nor can we be responsible for substandard performance of our product due to conditions beyond our control.

    4. How do I plant wildflower seeds?

    In order to achieve a successful stand of wild flowers, it is very important that the soil is prepared correctly and the seed is rolled or pressed into the soil after sowing. Burying the seed too deeply or casually broadcasting the seed over an unprepared area will only product disappointing results. Steps for planing a successful wildflower meadow. 

    1. Select a site that drains well.  Oftentimes we tend to plant in areas that are low-lying or poorly drained, thinking that the wild flowers will flourish under these moist conditions.  Moist locations are usually very weedy, because as water drains through the area, thousands of weed seeds are deposited onto the site that were collected upstream.  Remember...most wildflowers thrive in well drained soils.
    2. Use a herbicide to eliminate any vegetation which may compete with your wildflowers (Optional).
    3. Mow the existing or dead vegetation as short as possible.  Collect the clippings and remove the material from the site.
    4. To prepare the seed bed, rake or lightly till the surface of the soil to a maximum depth of one inch.  Shallow soil preparation will limit the disturbance of dormant weed seed.
    5. It is helpful to thoroughly mix a carrier such as masonry sand, perlite, potting soil, etc., with the seed to increase volume and aid in even distribution over your site.  We recommend a minimum of 4 parts of inert material to 1 part of seed. 
      * Sowing a pinch of seed in a flowerpot or cup filled with potting soil will provide you with a transportable specimen to take to the meadow for easy identification.
    6. Broadcast one half of your seed as uniformly as possible over the prepared area.  Sow the remaining seed in a direction perpendicular to the initial sowing.
    7. Press the seed into the soil by walking or rolling over the newly planted area.  Do not cover the seed any deeper than 1/16th of an inch.  Some of the seeds will remain visible.   NOTE:  DO NOT plant wild flowers in clover or grasses that grow during the winter (example: annual rye grass or fescues) as this vegetation will be too aggressive to allow the wild flowers to become established.

    5. Do I have to water? When Should I Water My Wildflowers?

    Your wildflower seeds will require ample moisture to germinate and develop into healthy seedlings. For best results, the area should be kept moist for 4 to 6 weeks during the establishment period. If natural rainfall is inadequate, supplemental watering with a garden hose may be necessary. Light and frequent applications of water should be applied to keep the ground moist. Once your wildflowers begin to germinate do not allow the site to completely dry out but avoid over watering the area. If the soil becomes overly saturated, the seedlings could die from the lack of oxygen supplied to the root system. How frequently you water your newly planted area will depend on local rainfall and soil types. In the western United States you may need to water every day. In the south, central and eastern regions of the United States you may need to water every couple of days. In the southwest desert region, several waterings a day might be needed until your plants are well established. After your seedlings are 1 to 2 inches in height, watering should be gradually reduced and applied only if the plants show signs of stress. On larger projects that cannot be irrigated plant in the fall or early spring during the months when rainfall is usually abundant. If adequate moisture is not received by natural rainfall and irrigation is not possible at your planting site you may run the risk of disappointing results during a dry year.

    6. Can wildflowers be planted in the shade?  How much sunlight do wildflowers need?

    Most wildflowers require a great deal of sunshine.  If your area receives at least eight hours of direct sunlight per day, your wildflowers will prosper.  A few species can tolerate partial shade, but for best results they must have at least four to six hours of sunlight each day.  Our BUTTERFLY HUMMINGBIRD BLEND contains many of the more shade tolerant wildflowers.  Perennial wildflowers require 2 springs before flowering so have patience. NOTE: Sun loving wildflowers that are planted in a shaded environment will produce spindly or "leggy" plants with very few blooms.

    .

    7. How do I store my wildflower seeds?

    Your leftover seeds will maintain a high germination percentage if stored under proper conditions.  How long your seeds remain viable will depend on the temperature and moisture levels the seeds are exposed to.  Seeds which are improperly stored will quickly deteriorate if unprotected against high humidity and dramatic temperature fluctuations day after day.  For best results, store any unused seed in a water resistant container.  Common household items such as ziplock storage bags, glass jars or plastic containers with snap-on lids work well.  Place the unused portion of seed in the storage container that you have chosen.  Before sealing the container add a packet of desiccant to the seed such as silica gel.  The silica gel will remove any moisture that remains in the storage container after it is sealed.  Seed stored under these conditions will remain viable for many years.  If you collect seed from your own wildflower area, the seed should be thoroughly air dried on newspaper.  Seed which are not completely dry prior to storage will contain excessive moisture which will cause mold to grow and damage the seed.  After the seeds are completely dry  the seeds should be cleaned to remove as much chaff and leaf litter as possible.  Follow the above procedure to store your how grown wildflower seeds for future use.

    8. Should I fertilize?

    We do not recommend fertilizing your wild flowers unless the area is depleted of nutrients.  Fertilization of wildflowers after the plants are established will encourage the growth of unwanted weeds, produce lush foliage and very few blooms.  If you must amend the soil, use a conservative amount of fertilizer at the time of planting.   For best results we recommend a low nitrogen fertilizer with an approximate ratio of  1-3-2  (1 part nitrogen - 3 parts phosphorus - 2 parts potassium).

    9. How do I control grass in my wildflowers?

    As your wildflowers become established, many types of aggressive grasses that were not successfully eliminated during the initial site preparation may appear.  Johnson grass, Crabgrass, and Ryegrasses are examples of unwanted grass varieties that can hide your wildflowers from view and compete with the area's overall beauty.  We recommend Ornamec® 170 herbicide to eliminate unsightly, protruding grasses without injury to your wildflowers, including emerging wildflower seedlings and transplants.  Labeled for over-the-top application, Ornamec® 170's active ingredient begins to work within five days to remove unsightly grasses.   NOTE OBSERVE ALL PRECAUTIONS AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY.    Mixture Ratio 8 - 10 ounces per gallon of water.

    10. How do I control weeds?

    Proper site evaluation and soil preparation are the first defenses against the competition of unwanted weeds in your wildflower site.  Before planting, assess the current weed population existing within the area.  If the site contains an overabundance of weeds, which is usually the case in low-lying or run-off areas where water occasionally stands, we highly recommend that an alternate site be selected.  For best results, choose an area that is elevated with adequate drainage.  A site which is well drained should have a limited population of existing weeds.  To remove the existing weeds from the site, you have the option to treat the entire area with a nonselective herbicide such as Roundup or remove the weeds by hand.  After the area is cleared of as many weeds as possible, soil preparation can begin.  Remember that thousands of buried weed seeds lie dormant beneath the soil, ready to germinate if the ground is disturbed too deeply.  Extensive rototilling, disking or plowing the soil greater than one inch in depth will release the dormant weed seed found within the sub-soil.  Improper soil preparation can create an uncontrollable weed problem in your wildflower area that could have been avoided.  As your wildflowers germinate and grow, periodically hand pull any weeds that may have come up since planting. Weeding should be minimal if the area was prepared properly. Weeds are an inevitable part of gardening and they should be expected.  A little planning and preventive maintenance in combination with proper site selection and soil preparation will greatly reduce the competition of unwanted weeds within your wildflowers.Your wildflower seeds will require ample moisture to germinate and develop into healthy seedlings. For best results, the area should be kept moist for 4 to 6 weeks during the establishment period. If natural rainfall is inadequate, supplemental watering with a garden hose may be necessary. Light and frequent applications of water should be applied to keep the ground moist. Once your wildflowers begin to germinate do not allow the site to completely dry out but avoid over watering the area. If the soil becomes overly saturated, the seedlings could die from the lack of oxygen supplied to the root system. How frequently you water your newly planted area will depend on local rainfall and soil types. In the western United States you may need to water every day. In the south, central and eastern regions of the United States you may need to water every couple of days. In the southwest desert region, several waterings a day might be needed until your plants are well established. After your seedlings are 1 to 2 inches in height, watering should be gradually reduced and applied only if the plants show signs of stress. On larger projects that cannot be irrigated plant in the fall or early spring during the months when rainfall is usually abundant. If adequate moisture is not received by natural rainfall and irrigation is not possible at your planting site you may run the risk of disappointing results during a dry year.

    11. Will my wildflowers return?

    Allow two weeks after the full bloom period has passed for the seeds to mature. As a rule of thumb, when the dead brown foliage offsets the floral color display, the area can be trimmed. Mow the area to a height of 4-6 inches. Often two cuttings will be needed to thoroughly break up the resulting stem and leaf litter. Annual mowing aids in seed dispersal, reduces competition of unwanted weeds and grasses and allows sufficient sunlight to penetrate to the lower growing plants and emerging seedlings.   CAUTION: Cutting the vegetation below 3 inches has a tendency to damage the perennial varieties.

    12. Do deer eat wildflowers?

    Is Bambi nibbling away at your plants?  Deer can be a problem, especially in suburban areas where they are often fed and treated as pets.  There are several species of wildflowers deer do not prefer.  However, if there is an over population of deer or their natural food is low then they will eat just about anything.  

    13. Annual, perennial? What does it mean?

    Domesticated Species and Exotic Garden Varieties Some of the species we offer are categorized as "Domesticated" species and are not considered native North American Wildflowers.  We also offer a few exotic garden varieties which have been genetically altered from their true wild form.  For your convenience, we have denoted the "Domesticated" species and the exotic garden varieties with the symbol D (green box) throughout the catalog.  These species will produce a beautiful display of color the first year, but in most situations will not reappear the following season. In order to achieve the same colorful display, the "Domesticated" species and exotic garden varieties will need to be replanted each year. 

    What is an Annual, Perennial, Biennial? 

    The following colored symbols are used throughout the catalog to indicate the life cycle of each variety. 

    A=Annual (blue box continuing the letter "A")

    P=Perennial (red box containing the letter "P")

    B=Biennial (yellow box containing the letter "B")

    Annuals- Plants that perform their entire life cycle from seed to flower to seed within a single growing season. All roots, stems and leaves of the plant die annually. Only the dormant seed bridges the gap between one generation and the next.

    Perennials- Plants that persist for many growing seasons.  Generally the top portion of the plant dies back each winter and regrows the following spring from the same root system (e.g. Purple Coneflower).  Many perennial plants do keep their leaves year round and offer and attractive border or groundcover (e.g. Tickseed, Shasta Daisy, Ox-Eyed Daisy).  Note: When starting perennial plants from seed, blooms will be observed in either the spring or summer of the second year and each year thereafter (e.g. Ox-Eyed Daisy planted in the spring of 1999 will not bloom until the spring of 2000).

     Biennials-Plants which require two years to complete their life cycle.  First season growth results in small rosette of leaves near the soil surface.  During the second season's growth stem elongation, flowering and seed formation occur followed by the entire plant's death.  Annual/Perennial - A plant can behave as an annual or a perennial depending on the local climatic and geographic growing conditions.  In the southern portion of the United States, these plants tend to grow much quicker than in the north due to the warmer weather and extended growing season.  For example: A Black-Eyed Susan would behave as an annual if grown in Louisiana; where as, if grown in Ohio, a Black-Eyed Susan would behave as a perennial.

    14. Why did I get poor results?

    Factors which generally cause poor results: 

    Our business is here to help you succeed with your wildflower project. The first step to your success is purchasing the highest quality seeds available on the market... and Wildseed Farms is committed to the service. Customers all over the world have grown beautiful strands of wildflowers using our seeds. Because we occasionally have customers who run into difficulty with their wildflowers success, we have outlined their most common mistakes below: 

    Impatience- Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience - Ralph Waldo Emerson

  • Improper site evaluation-good drainage is a must!
  • Deep soil preparation greater than one inch in depth will unleash dormant weed seeds that will compete with your wildflowers.
  • Covering the seed too deeply beneath the soil surface.  Remember: simply rolling or walking over a newly planted area will achieve proper seed/soil contact and aid in germination.
  • Planting at the wrong time of the year.
  • Trying to cover a large area with a small amount of seed.  Recommend seeding rates listed in the catalog are important.
  • Unsuitable site conditions for the variety being planted.  A plant requiring full sun and well-drained soils will not prosper in an area that is partially shaded with heavy clay soils.
  • Not enough sunlight.  Unless indicated, your flowers will require a minimum of eight hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • Inadequate rainfall after seed germination.  The area should not be allowed to become completely dry. Supplemental watering may be required to sustain plant life.
  • Extreme weather conditions; hail, drought, excessive rainfall, floods, unseasonably cold temperatures.

    • 15. What do seedlings look like?

    For your convenience we have included an actual photograph of each wildflower seedling. This will enable you to distinguish your wildflowers from unwanted vegetation during the establishment period. The seedling photo should be used as a reference during the first 45-90 days of development following germination. Your seedlings will undergo a tremendous change in their appearance during secondary growth and stem elongation, Many of the photos will become inapplicable as the plants reach maturity. Sowing a pinch of seed in a flowerpot or cup filled with potting soil will provide you with a transportable specimen to take to the meadow for easy identification. 

    16. What are the Range Maps all about?

    Below each wildflower photograph we have reproduced a map of the continental United States.  The shaded portion of the map represents the geographic region in which the species naturally occurs or is adapted to the environmental conditions.  Most varieties are capable of being grown over a much wider area than indicated.  However, it is important to remember that the elements in nature are highly variable and the maps should be considered generalizations.

    for a colorful natural display |

    (Image credit: Clive Nichols)

    It’s essential to know when to plant wildflower seeds if you want to bring their informal charm and natural grace to your yard. 

    Their unfussy habit and gorgeous colors, paired with incredible flower power, make wildflower garden ideas irresistible. And their biggest draw is their ability to attract and provide for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are a joy to share the yard with in summer.  

    Whether you want to use wildflowers to create a mini meadow or as part of your flower bed ideas, our guide has all you need to know on the peak times to sow and plant for the best results. 

    When to plant wildflower seeds

    Thanks to the contemporary love of natural garden design and the zeal to be more wildlife-friendly and eco-minded, wildflowers are increasingly being grown in backyards. Many gardeners like to enjoy them as a ‘mini meadow’, which is easy and inexpensive to grow and provides colorful bloom for months.

    ‘The trend of wildflower meadows has hit our industry in a big, beautiful way,’ says Pennsylvania-based landscape designer Nathan Tuno of Roots Landscape Inc . ‘Our clients are more and more adding meadows to unused lawn areas, and they act as bird, bee, and butterfly sanctuaries.’ 

    As to when to plant wildflower seeds, in general, spring and fall are the best times to direct sow and plant annual and perennial wildflowers. However, biennials (such as foxgloves) can be sown or planted in summer, and often so-called ‘wildflowers’ are not native, which means they may need to be sown under cover or sown at different times. If you prefer to make wildflower seed bombs, fall is best.

    When to plant annual wildflowers

    There are thousands of wildflowers and each has its own growing advice, so check with your supplier or read the seed packet. However, a general rule of thumb is that most hardy annual wildflowers that are native to your area can be sown direct in spring, and many can be sown direct in the fall.  

    When to plant perennial wildflowers

    For the majority of perennial wildflowers that are native to your area, a spring sowing is best in cool regions and a fall sowing is ideal in hotter areas. However, there is a huge range of species available, so check with your supplier or read the back of the seed packet to discover any specific instructions on sowing or planting times. 

    When to plant an annual wildflower mini meadow

    Many seed companies sell native and non-native ‘wildflower’ mixes that are composed of easy-to-grow seeds and a great mix of colors. For instance, Wildseed Farms in the US and Pictorial Meadows in the UK. If you want to create the unique look of your local area, make sure you choose a native mix. 

    ‘Mini meadows can be a nice way to make wildlife habitat,’ says Ohio-based garden designer Ethan McGory . ‘Because there can be a sense of wildness to mini meadows, think about having a crisp, clear edge of paving or mown lawn, and sowing them in a simple shape like a large rectangle or circle. ’ 

    When to plant a perennial wildflower mini meadow

    A spring or fall sowing is recommended everywhere, but the climate you live in will dictate which is the best season. If you’re in a cool, temperate region (such as the northern US or most of the UK), a spring sowing is better. But in warmer areas (including zones 7 to 11 in the US), a fall sowing is preferable, as the temperature allows the plants to establish a good root system at that time of year. 

    ‘Start small,’ advises Nathan Tuno. ‘Pick an area on your property that does not see a lot of traffic, perhaps designate it as a “no-mow” area and start adding plant material like echinacea and bee balm. Also look up what the native pollinator flowers are in your area. In the northeast of the US, flowers like asters and Joe Pye are all the rage when it comes to going native.’

    When to plant your favorite wildflowers

    If you want to grow wildflowers, find out which plants are native to your area or non-invasive in your area.  

    Here is a selection of some good-looking wildflowers you might want to try growing in your backyard.

    When to plant echinacea

    (Image credit: Clive Nichols)

    Native to: eastern North America

    The purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is a good-looking perennial for the middle or back of the border and creates a wonderful prairie mood. Sow it under cover (for example, in a greenhouse) in late winter, spring, late summer, or fall. 

    ‘My favorite native wildflower is echinacea,’ says Shannie McCabe, horticulturist for Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds . ‘It hosts a range of pollinators, it has a rich history of Native medicinal uses, and, of course, it’s a really beautiful plant. The wild E. purpurea that we see growing on roadsides is lovely, but those looking for a more domesticated spin on this favorite native wildflower can try ‘Green Twister’, which is equally easy to grow.’ 

    When to plant Joe Pye weed

    Native to: the US and Canada

    Formerly known as Eupatorium and now classed as Eutrochium, the tall perennials known as Joe Pye weed have an informal charm and attract lots of butterflies when their dusky pink or ivory flowers bloom in late summer and early fall. Sow them under cover in spring (for example, in a cold frame) or sow direct outside in early summer. 

    For British gardeners, hemp agrimony (E. cannabinum) is native to Europe and closely related. 

    When to plant sea kale

    Native to: Europe

    Fabulous in a gravel garden, sea kale (Crambe maritima) has superb wavy blue-green foliage that is topped with sprays of tiny white flowers in early summer. Purchase this tough perennial from a specialist seed supplier and sow as soon as possible upon receiving it, at any time of year, under cover – for example, in a greenhouse. 

    ‘Our Crambe seeds are dispatched from cold storage and should be sown immediately upon receipt,’ says Nina Marshall at Chiltern Seeds , ‘and therefore they can be started at any time of year. They germinate irregularly over a long period of time and are best sown with a given temperature of 64°F (18°C) for eight weeks. If germination does not occur in this time, then cold stratify for eight weeks. This can be achieved by either using the natural winter cold or by placing the tray in the fridge.’ 

    When to plant milkweed

    Native to: North and South America

    Butterflies love milkweeds, such as Asclepias syriaca, which is native to southern Canada and the eastern US. 

    ‘Milkweed blooms later in the summer, just in time for the Monarch butterfly migration,’ says Catherine Kaczor, Sales Manager at Hudson Valley Seed Co . ‘Its flowers and leaves provide food, shelter, and protection for the Monarchs. Urbanization has dramatically decreased the habitat in which milkweed thrives, so any attempt to simulate that environment in our yards or gardens helps the Monarch population.’ 

    Sow direct into soil outside in fall or early winter; alternatively, sow in spring, placing containers in a fridge initially, before moving them to a greenhouse or sunny windowsill. 

    ‘Milkweed, because it is native to the Northeast, needs to be “cold-stratified”,’ says Catherine. ‘This means that the seeds must be subjected to cold and moist conditions in order to grow. This is very easy for us in the Northeast. All you have to do is sow in late fall and let the winter weather take care of the rest.’  

    When to plant bluebells

    (Image credit: Future)

    Native to: Western Europe

    The beautiful Hyacinthoides non-scripta is the bluebell that carpets British woodland with scented bells in late spring and early summer. Bulbs are the more usual way of growing bluebells, but they can be grown from seed in fall or winter, which saves money if you have a large area to naturalize. 

    ‘Although these seeds can be sown year round, they are best sown in the fall or winter as a period of six to eight weeks of cold weather is needed for the seeds to germinate,’ says Nina Marshall. ‘Results show the following spring from sowing. Grow on undisturbed for two years. They require little attention so sow and forget!’ Sowing in a cold frame is ideal to keep mice away.  

    When to plant bee balm

    Native to: North America

    Monarda (commonly known as bee balm or bergamot) produces pink or red punk-hair flowers, which provide for pollinators in summer. There are several species in the US, including widely grown aromatic M. fistulosa and lemon-scented M. citriodora, as well as the more unusual exotic-looking M. punctata. 

    Sow M. fistulosa under cover in spring or sow direct outside in late summer or early fall; sow M. citriodora under cover in spring or sow direct outside from mid-spring to late summer; and sow M. punctata under cover in March or April or sow outside in fall. 

    When to plant chicory

    Native to: Europe

    Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a tall perennial that is sometimes grown for salad leaves or as a coffee substitute, but is more commonly cultivated as an ornamental. Native to Europe and naturalized in North America, it produces gorgeous sky-blue daisy flowers in summer. 

    It can be sown direct in spring, but is best sown direct in late summer or early fall for flowers the following year. If you want flowers this year, buy young plants (usually sold in the herb section of nurseries) instead. In the right conditions, chicory will self-sow. 

    When to plant foxgloves

    (Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

    Native to: Europe

    The biennial foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) sends up spires of pink hooded flowers, which bumblebees visit for nectar. The white form (Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora) is very elegant and easy to grow from seed. 

    As for planting foxgloves, they can be sown under cover in early spring or sown under cover or direct in late spring or early summer. If you have foxgloves growing already, collect the seed in summer once the flower spikes are spent and either sow it under cover or direct where you want them to grow.  

    Foxgloves are biennial. ’The plants focus on their green growth in the first year and will then reward you with flowers the following spring and summer,’ says Nina Marshall. Therefore, to ensure flowers every year, do a sowing next year as well. Since foxgloves self-sow, once you have enough in the garden, you won’t need to sow any. 

    When to plant aster

    Native to: North America

    Symphyotrichum are asters native to the US that brighten the garden in late summer and fall. These hardy perennials produce daisy flowers that have an informal charm and attract a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. 

    They are great for prairie-style borders or perennial wildflower meadows. There are several forms to choose from, including S. oblongifolium (aromatic aster), S. laeve (smooth aster), and S. novae-angliae (New England aster). Sow them under cover in early spring or sow direct outside in late spring after risk of frost has passed.  

    What is a wildflower?

    A wildflower is a plant that is native to your region. What is and isn’t native may be surprising. For instance, in the UK, many people think of cornflowers as wildflowers, but in fact they are native to Greece and Italy. This is why many suppliers label so-called ‘wildflowers’ as native or non-native. 

    Why grow wildflowers?

    Wildflowers offer the unique quality of being native to the area in which you live. This means they are often the best plants to grow to achieve a beautiful natural look. They’re also certain to be hardy and to benefit the local wildlife, and you can relax knowing they won’t escape the backyard and become invasive monsters (as so many non-native plants have done in the US). 

    Are non-native wildflowers invasive?

    Not necessarily. If you are – rightly – wary of planting something that may be invasive, check with your supplier or on the seed packet. Choose species labeled as ‘non-invasive’. This means they won’t wreak havoc in your local countryside. For more information, seek out the national resources on invasive and non-invasive plants in your country, such as the US Forest Service . 

    Rachel is senior content editor, and writes and commissions gardening content for homesandgardens.com, Homes & Gardens magazine, and its sister titles Period Living Magazine and Country Homes & Interiors. She has written for lifestyle magazines for many years, with a particular focus on gardening, historic houses and arts and crafts, but started out her journalism career in BBC radio, where she enjoyed reporting on and writing programme scripts for all manner of stories. Rachel then moved into regional lifestyle magazines, where the topics she wrote about, and people she interviewed, were as varied and eclectic as they were on radio. Always harboring a passion for homes and gardens, she jumped at the opportunity to work on The English Home and The English Garden magazines for a number of years, before joining the Period Living team, then the wider Homes & Gardens team, specializing in gardens.

    Caring for meadow flowers in the garden, watering, growing

    A flower meadow of meadow flowers not only looks beautiful, but is also extremely easy to create. Flower beds, sidewalk plantings, islands of meadow flowers instead of a lawn in the garden bring beauty, ease and harmony. This is the simplest and perhaps the most beautiful type of garden design. Unlike a lawn, a small flowering meadow does not require special care. Meadow and wildflowers cope with drought, frost and heat. They rarely get sick and are not particularly susceptible to pests. The flower garden does without watering, it does not need to be mowed every week, and if the right seeds are sown, the plants do not grow above the knees.

    Content

    Features of the meadow in the garden

    Decorative meadows in the garden can be really beautiful throughout growing season, because different types of meadow flowers constantly alternate in flowering and growth. The flower meadow blooms from May until the very autumn, and the bloom is constantly returning.

    Please note! The appearance of the garden with meadow plants changes during the season, which is its great advantage. Wildflowers require much less maintenance than a standard lawn (mowing, loosening, aerating, seeding, weeding) and do not even require watering and fertilizing.

    Gardens planted with cultivated plants are a bit capricious - prone to diseases and pests, require a relatively large amount of gardening work. A much easier way is to sow a flower meadow with flowering and seed-forming annuals, biennials and perennials.

    Thus, meadow flowers in the garden are beautiful, useful and practical.

    Creating a flower meadow

    A wildflower meadow in the garden is not a particularly hard job. In addition to sown annual flowers, you can plant wild perennials. They are easy to care for because they are adapted to environmental conditions and have not been changed by selection.

    Chamomile as an annual and perennial plant

    How to start growing meadow flowers in the garden? What should be considered when creating a flower meadow? Determine the size of the flower meadow in advance, carefully looking at the site on which it is planned to break the flower meadow.

    Is it sunny or rather shady? The wild meadow needs plenty of sun to grow rich flowers. As with all plants, it is important to choose a location that meets the requirements for soil conditions. Most grassland plants do not make great demands on the soil. The rest of the plants do not require care. The full effect of a flowering meadow will appear only after 3-4 years of growing flowers.

    Moorish lawn

    One distinguishing feature is the longevity of meadow flowers.

    Caring for meadow flowers in the garden

    Bring a piece of local nature into the garden with a flowering meadow or flower border. Growing meadow plants in the garden is easy. For the best effect, sowing meadow flowers is suitable.

    A beautiful plant

    The advantage of such plants is that they can adapt to any type of soil and do not need fertilizer. The most suitable period for sowing flowers is spring (March, April) or autumn (October, November).

    They do best in full sun but can also grow in shade. Prepare for this site in the garden from March / April or autumn.

    The surface of the future flower meadow should be loosened, but not too deep so that the seeds can penetrate into the soil. To do this, first remove the remnants of grass and old leaves.

    Since the seeds are small, they must be mixed with a large dose of dry sand before sowing. This will ensure that they are evenly distributed over the crop area. If the garden soil is loose, you can sow a flower meadow without digging.

    In compacted soil, or waterlogged due to a high proportion of loam or clay, sand must be added so that wild plants can take root.

    Water the soil well before sowing. Seeds are sown widely, at a sufficient distance so that they have room for subsequent growth. The seeds are not covered with soil, but simply lightly pressed on them so that they germinate. In the first year after sowing, the plants in most cases still do not bloom.

    Water generously and keep the soil moist for the first few weeks. Nature will take care of the rest.

    Please note! From time to time, invasive species of plants appear in meadow flowers, which must be uprooted along with the root.

    Watering

    Meadow flowers should be watered only after planting (2 weeks), and after rooting only need to be watered in case of prolonged drought. The wild meadow remains untouched until the end of the year.

    Meadow flower seeds

    Meadow flowers and their seeds can be divided into 2 main groups: perennial and annual. Perennial species can be sown in late summer. Annuals can be sown in spring.

    The advantage of annual plants is their abundant and intensive flowering throughout the growing season, the disadvantage is that they need to be sown every season in the spring.

    Popular meadow and wild flowers

    You can collect wild flower seed pods in late summer and scatter them in the garden.

    Perennials grow for many years and gradually renew themselves by self-sowing, so that their lifespan is theoretically unlimited. When choosing meadow flower seeds, it is necessary to pay attention to perennial and annual meadow mixtures. Equally important is the proportion of meadow flowers in the mixture, as grass seeds are usually added to them. The ratio of meadow flowers in the mixture must be at least 75% in order to achieve the desired effect of meadow flowering.

    The choice can be guided by the color of the flowers, light-loving or shade-loving plants.

    Please note! The beauty of meadow and wild flowers lies in their diversity. You can find flowers of any shape and color, they can be compact and tall.

    Any drought tolerant crop can be used for the flower garden. It can be wild flowers - chamomile, poppies, bluebells and cornflowers, decorative cereals.

    Meadow and wild flowers

    All of them tolerate drought well. But without water, they will not be able to grow: they need to be watered at least occasionally.

    There are a lot of wildflowers. Attractive are, for example, steppe sage, yarrow, meadow cornflower, foxglove and meadow daisy and others. The first spring flowers begin to awaken: primrose, lungwort. They are followed by summer ones: chamomile, poppies, cornflowers. At the end of the season, late blooming autumn flowers bloom.

    Perennial meadow flowers should not grow more than 15 cm during the first growing season. They are kept trimmed to establish well and to prevent planting of unwanted grasses. If this is not done, the proportion of meadow flowers in this area will decrease in the future.

    In the second and subsequent seasons there is no need for regular mowing. The meadow is mowed only once a season. The best time for mowing is autumn. Mowing the meadow supports self-seeding of plants.

    Unfortunately, the wild flower meadow is still too rare in home gardens. Nevertheless, it is the most natural of all meadows - beautiful, with a lot of plants. A wild meadow, with countless flowering herbs and shrubs, is many times more attractive than a lawn.

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    7 beautiful wild flowers for your garden that do not need special care

    Wild and meadow flowers in the garden will create an atmosphere of naturalness, naturalness. Now it is one of the most relevant landscape techniques. In addition, they require little or no care, and the seeds can be collected right in the field.

    No time to read? Watch the video!

    1 Bluebells

    The most widespread meadow species is the spreading bluebell. It has a thin stem and purple flowers. In the forest, it is easier to meet the Sredny and Portenschlag varieties. Grassland varieties should be planted in an open and sunny space. And forest ones - in partial shade, for example, under garden trees. You can collect the seeds in faded bluebells and plant them in the spring. Water the plant during severe drought and cut dead flowers to prolong flowering.

    2 Tansy

    Tansy is an unpretentious wild plant with small bright yellow flowers. It has a strong spicy aroma and repels parasites. Almost does not require watering, takes root well and tolerates frosts. You can wait for the end of flowering and collect the seeds. They are planted in the ground at the end of April or in May.

    3 Periwinkle

    Periwinkle is an unpretentious creeping plant that will help out if you need to fill in a garden area where nothing grows. It takes root on any soil, is not afraid of shade and drought. It blooms with small flowers of pink, lilac and purple tones. Seeds are sown at the beginning of summer.

    4 Spring primrose

    Primrose is a hardy plant with yellow flowers that blooms throughout the spring. It does not have to be watered - enough melted snow and spring rains. After flowering, you can collect the seeds and store them in a dark, dry and cool place for the next year. Plant the primrose whenever possible in well-lit areas.

    5 Horned Violet

    Violet grows like a carpet, gradually covering an ever larger area. It is convenient to use it to decorate the lawn or the space in front of the fence. It is not demanding on the composition of the soil, it tolerates frosts well. Blooms from April to late July. You can collect seeds and plant them in the ground in the fall.

    Instagram: @brri_olya

    Instagram: @smolinatamara2311

    6 Marshmallow officinalis

    Marshmallow officinalis reaches up to half a meter in height and blooms with pink and lilac flowers. It is often used in medicine, for example, they make decoctions for digestive problems and ointments for joints. The seeds collected in the meadow should be soaked in warm water for a day and then dried, this will increase their germination. They are planted shallowly, to a depth of 1-1.5 cm and watered once. It is not necessary to tamp the earth. Sprouts appear in about a week, but sometimes you have to wait up to three weeks.

    Instagram: @aleksey_senkov

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    7 Chamomile

    Daisies are well-suited for poor soil or for quick planting of bare ground in the garden.

    Learn more