Common Questions & Growing Advice For Western Landscapes
Western Wildflower Seeds FAQ:
What states are our Western wildflower seeds ideal for?
- Ideal For: Eastern Oregon (OR), Eastern Washington (WA), Northern Nevada (NV), Colorado (CO), Idaho (ID), Montana (MT), North Dakota (ND), South Dakota (SD), Utah (UT), and Wyoming (WY).
When is the best time to plant Western wildflower seeds?
- Fall Planting: Plant seeds from late September through November. Cooler weather and seasonal rains help seeds establish deep roots, ensuring strong spring growth.
- Spring Planting: Plant seeds in March through early April, taking advantage of the last cool temperatures and late seasonal rains. This helps seeds germinate and grow before the dry summer.
What are some of our favorite easy-to-grow wildflowers for the Western?
- California Poppy Seeds: Deer-resistant and blooms from spring through summer, often re-blooming in fall.
- Black-Eyed Susan: An adaptable and easy-to-grow plant that thrives in various soil conditions.
- Cosmos: Lights up the meadow in midsummer, holding its blooms until frost.
- Cornflower: Adds vibrant blue blooms to the meadow, attracting birds like American goldfinches in the fall.
What are the benefits of planting Western Wildflower Seeds?
- Drought Tolerance: Many Western wildflowers are adapted to arid conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Supports Pollinators: Provides nectar and habitat for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Low Maintenance: Suited to the region’s conditions, requiring minimal care once established.
- Adaptation to Poor Soils: Often thrive in rocky, well-drained soils, making them ideal for challenging landscapes.
What should I expect in terms of growth during the first year in Western Regions?
- First-Year Growth: Anticipate modest blooms from annuals, especially in sunny, well-drained areas.
- Annuals: Annual wildflowers will typically start blooming within 6-8 weeks, depending on the species and planting conditions. Annuals complete their life cycle in one season, going to seed once they have bloomed for the season.
- Perennials: Perennials will focus on establishing deep roots, with more abundant flowering expected in the second year. The dry, rocky soil may lead to slower initial growth, but the plants will harden off and thrive in subsequent seasons.
How do I ensure my Western wildflowers come back every year?
- Choose perennial wildflower varieties like Blue Flax and Blanket Flower for long-lasting blooms.
- Properly preparing the soil, mulching, and watering during dry spells will help your wildflowers reseed naturally, returning stronger each season.
Planting How-To’s