A Partial Shade Wildflower Mix is specifically formulated to thrive in areas receiving limited sunlight, typically about 4 hours of direct sun per day. These mixes are ideal for planting under tree canopies, along fence lines, or in other shaded spots where traditional full-sun wildflowers may not flourish.
While the mix varieties may vary, some of the most common varieties are Wild Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris), Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), Siberian Wallflower (Cheiranthus allionii), Chinese Houses (Collinsia heterophylla), Lance-Leaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus), Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila elegans), Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus), Rose Mallow (Lavatera trimestris), Baby Snapdragon (Linaria maroccana), Scarlet Flax (Linum grandiflorum rubrum), Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima), Four O’clock (Mirabilis jalapa), Lemon Mint (Monarda citriodora), Forget Me Not (Myosotis sylvatica), Five Spot (Nemophila maculata), Baby Blue Eyes (Nemophila menziesii), Evening Primrose (Oenothera lamarckiana), Red Poppy (Papaver rhoeas), Drummond Phlox (Phlox drummondi), None-so-Pretty (Silene armeria), and Johnny Jump-Up (Viola cornuta).
These species are selected for their ability to adapt to shaded environments, providing a vibrant and diverse display of colors and textures throughout the growing season. The wildflower bed will grow to a height of 24-30 inches under normal conditions.
- 1/4 ounce sows approximately 93 square feet.
- Seeding rate: 5-8 pounds per acre depending on density desired.
Partial Shade Wildflower Mix Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in late fall for natural stratification over winter. This mix is designed to thrive in areas with limited sunlight.
- Location: Choose a location that receives about 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, such as under tree canopies or along shaded fence lines.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and remove weeds. Adding compost can improve soil fertility and moisture retention for better results.
- Seeding:
- Mix seeds with sand or a carrier to ensure 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 evenly moist during germination and establishment.
General Care Tips
- Sunlight: This mix thrives in partial shade, typically receiving around 4 hours of direct sun per day. It is ideal for shaded areas where full-sun wildflowers may struggle.
- Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, the mix is moderately drought-tolerant but may benefit from additional watering during dry spells.
- Weed Control: Remove weeds during early growth to minimize competition and support healthy wildflower development.
- Fertilizing: Fertilizing is generally not required. Over-fertilization may promote weeds rather than wildflowers.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and extend the bloom period. Allow some flowers to set seed for natural reseeding.
Additional Information
- Seed Coverage: 1/4 ounce covers approximately 93 square feet. Adjust coverage based on your desired seeding density.
- Seeding Rate: Use 5-8 pounds per acre depending on the desired density.
- Blooming: Expect a vibrant and diverse display of colors and textures throughout the growing season, with mature plants reaching a height of 24-30 inches under normal conditions.
- Shade-Tolerant: This mix is specifically curated to adapt to shaded environments, ensuring a beautiful wildflower display in areas with limited sunlight.
