Spring is finally here, and it is time to start planting. Here are some simple tips for starting a cut flower garden that you will love throughout the summer months! I can’t wait to say goodbye to the snow here in the Midwest and plant some beautiful flower seeds that we can cut and bring inside the house to add cheer and color to every room! Planting your own seeds is a far more economical choice that purchasing flowers that have already bloomed and definitely more economical than buying them from the store. Plus, you get the pride of knowing you did it yourself! So, come along with me this season and let’s explore the best simple tips to start a cut flower garden at your home.
What are the best flowers to grow for cutting?
There are so many great seeds to plant for a cut flower garden. Some easy options include:
- Sunflowers
- Sweet Pea
- Amaranth
- Calendula
- Cosmos
- Pincushions
- Snapdragons
- Stock
- Strawflowers
- Zinnias
What supplies do you need for a simple cut flower garden? Simple Tips for Starting a Cut Flower Garden
One of the most simple tips for starting a cut flower garden is to visit your local garden supply store and pick up some supplies. This year, I am starting with Zinnia seeds (my favorites!), this Ferry-Morse seed starting kit with 72 cells, and Jiffy’s seed starting mix. Simply put one seed into each cell, cover with seed starting mix, water and give them time to grow! You can use the cover to protect them, when needed.
When should I start flower seeds? Simple Tips for Starting a Cut Flower Garden
Looking for simple tips for starting a cut flower garden from seeds and when to start? The easiest way to gauge when to start your flower seeds is 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Most seeds take about 2 weeks to germinate, and then they can grow for about 4-6 weeks before putting them outside. Look here for first and last frost dates in North America.
When will I start to see growth in the seedlings?
It generally takes about 2 weeks to begin to see growth. It is so exciting to see your seeds coming to life! Keep watering them and providing exposure to sunlight throughout the weeks to come and you will soon see beautiful little shoots.
When can you transplant seedlings?
You can transplant seedlings once they have developed their second set of true leaves. You can also thin them out by pinching off excess seedlings, leaving them spaced about 2 inches apart. There should only be one seeding per cell. To transplant your seedlings, prepare a new pot with fresh planting mix. Avoid being too rough with the young stems.
Plant and water right away, being sure to keep them out of direct sunlight for a few days to let the young plants recover. About a week before seedlings are ready to be planted outside, give them a few hours a day in sheltered light to begin to adjust to life outdoors or “harden.” Gradually, increase the time outdoors until flowers are in full sun all day and ready to be planted outside.
Can My Kids Help with Seedlings?
Yes, this is the perfect activity to do with kids! My children loved helping put the seeds into each cell, and they scrambled to be the first kid to water the seeds each day. It’s also the perfect way to talk about the science behind growing plants, photosynthesis, and the life cycle. If you have little ones, they can also learn more color and texture as you shop and see the flowers come to life.
I hope these simple tips for starting a cut flower garden have been helpful for you! May your spring and summer days ahead be filled with beauty and light and FLOWERS!
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