How to Grow Wildflower Plants

How to Grow Wildflower Plants

Annuals and Perennials

By definition, a wildflower grows in the wild—theoretically, any flower is a wildflower. When we think wildflowers, we picture varieties growing naturally in fields, meadows, streambeds, hillsides, or unkept areas.

Wildflowers are popular for many applications. They look great, brighten difficult-to-maintain areas, and are easy to grow with little attention.

"Naturalizing" is frequently used with wildflowers. It can mean planting native varieties or creating colorful blooms outside established beds. However you view them, they're popular and attractive.

Goal: continuous blooms from early spring to frost. Use a wildflower mixture—seed suppliers provide mixes with annuals and perennials for season-long blooming.

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Plant Propagation

Most commonly grown from seed. Add bulbs for variety.

Prepare area by tilling and raking. Remove all weeds and roots. Broadcast seeds into prepared area. Sow early in season. No need to cover seeds with soil.

Tip: Mix seeds with dry sand (2 parts sand to 1 part seed) for better spreading.

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How to Grow Wildflower Plants

Very easy with little/no maintenance. Seed suppliers select low-maintenance, drought-tolerant mixtures. Varieties for full sun and partial shade exist.

Wildflowers thrive in most soils. While many are drought-tolerant, occasional watering during driest periods helps. Add general-purpose fertilizer at planting.

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Insect and Disease

Resistance varies by flower selection. If problems arise, treat early with organic/chemical repellents and fungicide.

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