Fall Flower Planting: A Beginner’s Guide
Introduction
Growing flowers from seed is a rewarding and cost-effective way to add beauty to your garden. Fall is an ideal time to plant many types of flowers, as the cooler temperatures and shorter days promote healthy root development and overwintering.
Choosing Flowers for Fall Planting
When selecting flower seeds for fall planting, consider your local climate and the amount of sunlight your planting area receives. Cool season flowers, such as pansies, violas, and snapdragons, thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand light frost. Warm season flowers, such as zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers, prefer warmer temperatures and should be planted in late spring or early summer.
Preparing Your Planting Area
Before planting flower seeds, prepare your planting area by removing any weeds, debris, or old plant material. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility. The ideal soil pH for most flowers is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Planting Flower Seeds
Sow flower seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet. Generally, seeds should be planted at a depth of two to three times their diameter. Water the seeds gently after planting, and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Overwintering Flower Seedlings
In cold climates, it is important to protect flower seedlings from freezing temperatures. Mulch around the seedlings with straw, leaves, or compost to insulate them from the cold. You can also cover the seedlings with a cold frame or cloche.
Spring Care
Once spring arrives, remove any mulch or covers from the seedlings. Fertilize the plants and water them regularly. Pinch back the tips of the plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Popular Flower Seeds for Fall Planting
Here are some popular flower seeds that are well-suited for fall planting:
- Cool season annuals: Alyssum, bachelor’s buttons, calendula, gaillardia, love-in-a-mist, pansy, phlox, poppy, snapdragon, stocks, sweet pea, sweet William, wallflower
- Perennial plants: Bells of Ireland, milkweed, painted daisy, rudbeckia, salvia, scabiosa, Shasta daisy
Tips for Success
- Choose the right flower seeds for your climate and planting area.
- Prepare your planting area properly to ensure good drainage and fertility.
- Plant seeds at the correct depth and water them gently.
- Protect seedlings from freezing temperatures in cold climates.
- Fertilize and water your plants regularly in the spring.
- Pinch back the tips of the plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
With a little planning and care, you can enjoy a beautiful display of flowers in your garden from spring to fall.
