The All Annual Wildflower Mix is made up of 27 species that are designed to provide wildflowers for one year. It is ideal for overseeding mixed beds where the annuals have not reseeded themselves or to rejuvenate a bed that has gone "flat." The seeds are all annuals or perennials that act like annuals, meaning they will bloom the first year. In some conditions, they may reseed themselves very well if the bed is to be carried over another year. This mix is perfect for gardeners seeking quick blooms and a vibrant variety of colors and forms.
While the mix varieties may vary, some of the most common varieties are Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas), Annual Baby's Breath (Gypsophila elegans), Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), Sulphur Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus), Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella), Scarlet Flax (Linum grandiflorum rubrum), Catchfly (Silene armeria), Clasping Coneflower (Dracopis amplexicaulis), Rose Mallow (Lavatera trimestris), Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima), Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus), African Daisy (Dimorphotheca aurantiaca), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Rocket Larkspur (Delphinium ajacis), Spurred Snapdragon (Linaria maroccana), Lupine (Lupinus spp.), Evening Primrose (Oenothera lamarckiana), Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), and Baby Blue Eyes (Nemophila menziesii).
This selection ensures a continuous and colorful bloom throughout the growing season, attracting pollinators and adding aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes. The wildflower bed will grow to a height of 24-36 inches under normal conditions.
- 1/4 ounce sows approximately 54 square feet.
- Seeding rate: 10-14 pounds per acre depending on density desired.
All Annual Wildflower Mix Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. In warmer climates, this mix can also be sown in late fall for early spring blooms.
- Location: Choose a sunny area with well-draining soil. This mix is perfect for revitalizing existing beds or creating new colorful wildflower displays.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and remove weeds. While this mix adapts well to various soil conditions, incorporating compost can improve fertility and bloom quality.
- Seeding:
- Mix seeds with sand or a carrier for even distribution.
- Broadcast seeds evenly over the prepared area.
- Lightly rake or press seeds into the soil surface without burying, as many wildflower seeds require light to germinate.
- Watering: Water immediately after sowing to ensure good soil-seed contact. Keep the soil lightly moist during germination and establishment.
General Care Tips
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for optimal growth and blooming. This mix performs best in sunny locations but tolerates partial shade.
- Watering: Water consistently during the establishment phase. Once established, this mix requires minimal watering, though occasional irrigation during dry spells may enhance blooming.
- Weed Control: Remove weeds during the early growth phase to reduce competition and promote healthy wildflower growth.
- Fertilizing: Not typically necessary. Over-fertilization can promote weed growth over wildflowers.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering, or allow flowers to set seed for potential natural reseeding the following year.
Additional Information
- Seed Coverage: 1/4 ounce covers approximately 54 square feet. Adjust coverage based on your desired seeding density.
- Seeding Rate: Use 10-14 pounds per acre depending on the desired density.
- Blooming: Enjoy vibrant, continuous blooms throughout the growing season, with mature plants reaching a height of 24-36 inches under normal conditions.
- Pollinator-Friendly: This mix attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, adding ecological and aesthetic value to your garden.
