Sow these 7 flower seeds in September for stunning blooms next year:
With autumn approaching, it's time to consider planting flowers and bulbs to set the stage for strong, larger growth and more blooms the following year. Here are some top recommendations for perennials and bulbs that thrive in various USDA hardiness zones, as well as some tips to ensure a successful planting process.
Perennials for Strong Growth and More Blooms ----------------------------------------------
1. Autumn Joy Stonecrop (Hylotelephium spectabile 'Autumn Joy') - USDA Zones: 3–9 - Characteristics: Drought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, and provides late-season color. Leaves and flowers add texture as well as late color to the garden.
2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp.) - USDA Zones: 3–9 (as perennials, some as annuals) - Characteristics: Cheerful yellow and orange daisy-like flowers, thrives in full sun, low-maintenance, and great for naturalizing large areas.
3. Blue Pitcher Sage (Salvia azurea) - USDA Zones: 5–9 - Characteristics: Produces sky-blue flowers from midsummer to fall. Cutting back in late spring promotes bushier growth and more blooms.
4. Chrysanthemums (Mums) - USDA Zones: 5–9 (many varieties) - Characteristics: Classic fall bloomers, easy to grow, and excellent for mass color. Plant in well-drained soil for best results.
5. Hardy Geranium (Geranium spp.) - USDA Zones: 3–9 (depends on variety) - Characteristics: Long blooming from late spring through fall, especially in partial shade, and provides ground cover.
Bulbs for Spring and Fall Blooms ----------------------------------
1. Crocus (Autumn or Fall Crocus, e.g., Crocus speciosus, Crocus kotschyanus) - USDA Zones: 3–8 - Characteristics: True lilies (Lilium) and autumn crocus provide late-season color if planted in late summer/early fall. Crocus corms planted in September will establish roots for fall or spring blooms, depending on species.
2. Daffodils, Tulips, and Alliums - USDA Zones: 3–8 (most varieties) - Characteristics: Traditional spring bulbs that benefit from fall planting. They develop roots in autumn, resulting in robust spring growth and abundant blooms.
### Tips for Successful Planting
1. Plant perennials early in September to give roots time to establish before frost, leading to stronger plants and more blooms the following year. 2. Prepare soil by enriching planting areas with compost or well-rotted manure to promote healthy root systems. 3. Water well after planting, especially in dry climates or during prolonged dry spells, to help plants settle in. 4. Mulch lightly to protect against temperature fluctuations and moisture loss. 5. Choose site conditions carefully, matching plants to your specific zone, sun exposure, and soil type for best results.
### Additional Edible Plants to Consider
1. Cerinthe - This attractive herb thrives in USDA zones 7 to 10 and has edible leaves and flowers that impart a fresh, slightly honey-like flavor to dishes. 2. Douglas Meadowfoam (Limnanthes douglasii) - Native to Oregon and California, this plant is affectionately known as the poached egg plant due to its yellow-centered white flowers. It's highly attractive to pollinators and makes a fantastic edging or groundcover plant, reaching just 6 inches in height. 3. Sea Holly (Eryngium) - A hardy perennial that's a draw for butterflies and has edible flowers. Once established, sea holly requires minimal care and makes lovely dried flowers. 4. Nigella (love in a mist) - A hardy annual that blooms in spring when planted in September. It can be grown in USDA zones 2 to 11 and has double flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white.
By selecting and planting these flowers and bulbs in September, you'll encourage vigorous root growth, resulting in larger plants and more abundant blooms the following year across a range of USDA hardiness zones. Happy gardening!
Planting perennials such as Autumn Joy Stonecrop, Black-Eyed Susan, Blue Pitcher Sage, Chrysanthemums, and Hardy Geranium can bring vibrant colors and textures to your home-and-garden lifestyle, attracting pollinators and thriving in various USDA hardiness zones. Additionally, consider bulbs like Crocus, Daffodils, Tulips, and Alliums for spring and fall blooms, ensuring a beautiful, colorful lifestyle all year round.
