Designed for areas with limited water availability, this mix combines 25 individual species of annuals and perennials that thrive in arid conditions. The mix consists of 50% annuals and 50% biennials/perennials, offering a vibrant display of colors while requiring minimal maintenance once established.
While the mix varieties may vary, some of the most common varieties are Dwarf Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), African Daisy (Dimorphotheca sinuata), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Perennial Gaillardia (Gaillardia aristata), Annual Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila elegans), Spurred Snapdragon (Linaria maroccana), Blue Flax (Linum perenne), Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas), Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera), Sulphur Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus), California Bluebell (Phacelia campanularia), Blue Sage (Salvia farinacea), Tidy-Tips (Layia platyglossa), and Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima).
This diverse selection ensures a continuous and colorful bloom throughout the growing season, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens in dry climates. The wildflower bed will reach a height of 36-38 inches under normal conditions, flourishing in dry climates or areas with irregular moisture.
- 1/4 ounce sows approximately 109 square feet.
- Seeding rate: 4-7 pounds per acre depending on density desired.
Dry Land Wildflower Mix Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds any time after the last spring frost. This mix thrives in arid conditions and establishes best with natural seasonal moisture.
- Location: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Ideal for xeriscaping and areas with low water availability.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and remove weeds. Incorporate compost for better fertility, but this mix performs well in poorer soils.
- Seeding:
- Mix seeds with sand or a carrier for even distribution.
- Broadcast seeds evenly over the area.
- Lightly rake or press seeds into the soil surface; do not bury, as many wildflower seeds require light to germinate.
- Watering: Water immediately after sowing to ensure good soil-seed contact. Continue watering lightly and consistently until seedlings are established.
General Care Tips
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for optimal growth and blooming.
- Watering: Once established, this mix requires minimal watering and thrives in dry conditions. Water only during prolonged dry spells to support blooming.
- Weed Control: Minimize competition by removing weeds during early establishment.
- Fertilizing: Not required, as this mix is adapted to poor soils. Avoid over-fertilizing to maintain balance between annuals and perennials.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering, or allow flowers to go to seed for natural reseeding and wildlife support.
Additional Information
- Seed Coverage: 1/4 ounce covers approximately 109 square feet. Adjust based on seeding density.
- Seeding Rate: Use 4-7 pounds per acre depending on the desired density.
- Blooming: Enjoy a continuous and colorful display throughout the growing season, with a mature height of 36-38 inches under normal conditions.
