Flower Seeds FAQs

Concerning flower seeds, typical inquiries involve how to properly store them, when to plant based on climate, managing varying seed sizes, assessing germination rates, and selecting beginner-friendly flowers for seeding; answers depend on specific flower types and growth conditions.

Basic Flower Seed Questions:

What is the best way to store flower seeds?:

• Maintain seed viability by storing them in a cool, dry place, in an airtight container labeled with the flower type and date of collection Or purchase HERE.

What is the lifespan of flower seeds?

• The majority of flower seeds will remain viable for 2-4 years with proper storage

How can I determine the viability of my seeds?:

• Conduct a germination test by placing a few seeds on a damp paper towel and observing sprouting after a designated period.

When is the ideal timing for planting flower seeds outdoors?:

• Generally, plant annual flower seeds after the last frost in your area HERE. 
• Refer to the specific requirements for your flower variety on Our website, in the details section of each listings

Planting and Growing Flower Seeds:

• How deep should I plant flower seeds?:
• Plant small seeds just lightly on the soil surface, while larger seeds can be planted slightly deeper depending on the variety. 
• How much space should I leave between plants?:
• Follow the spacing guidelines on the seed packet to ensure proper plant growth. 
• How often should I water my flower seedlings?:
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy, watering regularly, especially when seedlings are young. 

Different Types of Flower Seeds:

• What are annual flowers?:
• Annuals complete their life cycle in one growing season, requiring planting new seeds each year.
• Annuals are plants that grow, bloom, and die in one season. They reproduce by setting seeds, making them ideal for gardening because they continue to flower until the first frost. By using techniques like deadheading, annuals can increase their flower production and bloom until the next season. Some annuals, like sweet alyssum, bachelor’s button, and forget-me-nots, can self-sow and bloom again the following year

Annuals are divided into three groups.

Hardy or cool-season annuals, like forget-me-not and larkspur, do well in cooler temperatures and can handle light frost without protection. Tender or warm-season annuals, like marigolds and petunias, need heat to grow and should be added to gardens in late spring. Half-hardy annuals are the most common and can tolerate a variety of temperatures.

Why choose annuals?

Annuals are a great way to experiment with new plants and colors, fill in bare spots in gardens, and add color to vegetable gardens. They mature quickly and provide instant gratification, blooming from planting time until frost. They also attract pollinators and put all of their energy into developing flowers.

What are perennial flowers?:

• Perennials live for multiple years and will return each spring from their established root system.
• Perennial flowers may not bloom their first year, but if you have the patience to wait, you can fill your garden for a fraction of the cost of buying mature plants. Annual flowers will bloom right on schedule, and many of them will even seed themselves, so you'll only have to plant them once to receive years of beautiful blooms. If you've been dreaming of nonstop color, pick up some seed packets, and get started with the tips below

• Perennials, in contrast to short-lived plants, are known for their cold-hardiness and ability to return year after year. While they typically bloom for only one season (either spring, summer, or fall), there are also reblooming and long-blooming varieties, such as fern-leaved bleeding heart (Dicentra 'Luxuriant').

Some perennials have a long lifespan, but it varies and some may only live for 3-5 years. Their care and maintenance also vary and some may need regular pruning and division, while others are low-maintenance and thrive with little attention.

Why choose perennials?

Despite the higher initial cost, perennials make for a wise long-term investment as they continue to bloom year after year. Even if a perennial has a shorter lifespan, it can often be multiplied through division* or reseeding. Once established, most perennials require less water, making them ideal for those living in drought-prone regions looking to reduce water usage. Choosing native perennials also has the added benefit of creating a welcoming environment for pollinators and local wildlife

What are biennials?:

• Biennials take two growing seasons to complete their life cycle, blooming in the second year. 
• Differentiate between perennials and biennials like dianthus, foxglove, and hollyhock. Biennials take two years to complete their growth cycle and may only bloom in their second year, but some can act like short-lived perennials and bloom in their first year if planted early or started indoors.

Specific Questions about Flower Seeds:

Do I need to soak large flower seeds before planting?:

• Yes, soaking large seeds like poppies or sweet peas can improve germination rates. 

Can I start flower seeds indoors?:

• Yes, beginning seeds indoors can provide an advantage for the growing season, particularly for slow-germinating types.

How do I thin out flower seedlings?:

• Once seedlings are established, carefully remove weaker plants to give remaining plants adequate space