When to Plant
For Spring planting, it’s best to sow seeds within a month after the final frost. Avoid planting too early, as a late-season frost will damage the seeds, requiring replanting.
For Fall planting, wait until after the first killing frost to prevent premature germination. Fall planting helps give your garden a head start for vibrant blooms in Spring.
Where to Plant
While many wildflowers can tolerate some filtered shade, and a few even thrive in it, most are sun-lovers. Wildflowers typically sprout in all but the most challenging conditions, meaning that fertilizer or rich sod are generally unnecessary for successful growth.
How to Plant
Wildflower seeds need light to germinate, so make sure not to cover them when planting.
Clear the area and work the soil as best you can before planting your seeds. Don’t panic when some weeds sprout along with the flowers, this will happen when the soil is worked.
Start by clearing the area and working the soil as thoroughly as possible before planting. Don’t worry if some weeds sprout along with the flowers; this is common when the soil is disturbed.
For better seed distribution, mix your seeds with sand (5 parts sand to 1 part seeds). This helps evenly spread the seeds and makes it easier to identify where you’ve already sown. For smaller areas, you can hand-broadcast the seeds, but for larger areas, a seed spreader will help ensure even coverage.
After sowing, lightly press the seeds into the soil, about 1/4 inch deep, to protect them from birds and wind.
How to Care for Annual Wildflowers
While wildflowers are relatively low-maintenance, there are a few steps to keep them looking their best. Regularly weed to ensure they receive the nutrients they need, water during dry spells, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
