Attracts Bees & Beneficials
Welcome Bee Friends and Others with Benefits
Plant these blooms to feed and nurture many kinds of beneficial insects from pollinators to pest control.
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Bolognese Basil Aurelia
ANNUAL
Summer/fall harvest
Heat-loving, frost tenderTO PLANT DIRECTLY INTO THE GARDEN
When late spring weather reaches 55°F (10°C) both day and night, sow seeds 1 inch apart in well worked, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/4 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 1 to 2 weeks. After seedlings are well established, thin or transplant 8 inches apart, which allows plants enough elbow room grow and mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of fresh seed starting mix, 4 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. Feed with 1/2 strength liquid fertilizer every 10 days. Once weather warms outdoors, acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions, then transplant 8 inches apart into the garden.
GROWING NOTES
It is critical to sow seed or transplant basil seedlings only when late spring day and nighttime temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C). Harvest sprays of leaves by snipping stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to encourage lush foliage. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting. Feed regularly with high nitrogen fertilizer after harvesting to promote new growth. Except in very short season areas, make a second planting three weeks after the first for a continued supply of fresh, aromatic leaves.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Landscaping Herbs Catmint
BEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
In spring, 6 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover lightly, keep warm and moist, and provide a strong light source. Feed every 2 weeks with half-strength fertilizer. Once seedlings are well-established, transplant 2 to 3 inches apart into deeper containers so root systems have room to develop. When 3 to 4 inches tall, acclimate to outdoor conditions and plant in full sun 12 inches apart.
TO START OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in ordinary garden soil in spring when weather is settled and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds in well-worked soil 1/4 inch deep and 4 inches apart. Keep evenly moist while waiting for seedlings to emerge. Thin seedlings 12 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Plant drifts of this pretty herbal ground cover in any sunny spot. It grows into 12 inch tall, softly rounded mounds. Once first flush of flowers ends, cut back to about 6 inches and plants will come back into bloom. Many cats enjoy frolicking in Catmint’s sturdy foliage which can handle their affectionate advances.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Kitchen Herbs Italian Arugula
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall harvest
Frost hardyEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
In early spring, sow seeds directly into well-worked garden soil in full sun or in a sunny spot with afternoon shade. Broadcast seed 2 inches apart, cover 1/4 inch deep and firm soil over seeds. Keep seed bed evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Make new sowings every 2 weeks until early summer for a constant supply of fresh non-bitter leaves. Begin harvesting young leaves in 3 to 4 weeks.
In hot summer areas, wait to sow again in late summer for fall use, as summer heat makes leaves very pungent.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Arugula grows so quickly we recommend sowing in place rather than transplanting. Thin seedlings 2 to 3 inches apart when plants are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Begin harvesting by thinning little seedlings to use in salads when they are several inches tall. Then, either pick individual leaves when 3-4 inches long, or snip leaves about 1 inch above the crown and let plants regrow for more harvests.Regular price $2.99Sale price $2.99Unit price per -
Pollinator Flowers Everlasting Beauty Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom.
Frost tender.BEST TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In early spring, after all danger of frost is past, plant in a well- prepared garden bed in full sun. Shake packet to mix. Scatter the seed thinly and evenly over finely worked soil, aiming to have the seeds about 1-2 inches apart. Cover lightly, about 1⁄4 inch deep, and gently firm the soil over the seeds - a rake is handy for this step. Water thoroughly and evenly with a very gentle spray. Keep the seed bed moist while seeds germinate and flowers are growing and blooming. When seedlings are well-established, thin to 6 inches apart so remaining plants have room to grow and develop. Keep bed moist while flowers are actively growing for the most blossoms.
GROWING NOTES
This fast-growing mix of annuals feeds a wide range of pollinators and beneficial insects. With their lovely colors and intricate forms, the flowers are easily air dried so you can enjoy their beauty indoors for months.
TO DRY FOR DISPLAY
Cut flowers in bunches with long stems, tying each bunch with twine or rubber bands. Hang bunches upside down in a dry, airy place out of the sun for a few weeks until thoroughly dry, then use in wreaths, centerpieces, or everlasting bouquets.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Pollinator Flowers Monarch Butterfly Flowers
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom.
Frost tender.BEST TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In early spring, after all danger of frost is past, plant in a well-prepared garden bed in full sun. Shake packet to mix. Scatter the seed thinly and evenly over finely worked soil, aiming to have the seeds about an 1 to 2 inches apart. Cover lightly, about 1⁄4 inch deep, and gently firm the soil over the seeds — a rake is handy for this step. Water thoroughly and keep evenly moist. Thin well-established seedlings to a final spacing of 6 to 8 inches apart so plants have room to grow, develop and bloom. Keep bed moist while flowers are actively growing for the most blossoms.
GROWING NOTES
This fast-growing, early-flowering annual mix blooms in succession, providing a sustained feast for Monarchs and many other pollinators. The flowers’ many colors and shapes blend beautifully for memorable bouquets.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Pollinator Flowers White Lace Orlaya
ANNUAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Can handle light frostBEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
Broadcast seed thinly, 2-3 inches apart, into a finely textured garden bed in full sun as early in spring as ground can be worked. Cover lightly, no more than 1/4 inch deep. Keep soil moist. Weed and water seedlings carefully. Thin to final spacing before they get crowded.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date. Sow seeds thinly in a container or individual pots of seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep evenly moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Transplant carefully to avoid disturbing roots.
GROWING NOTES
Space seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart when they are large enough to handle.
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Pollinator Flowers Patio Pastels Lavatera
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom.
Frost tender.EASY TO PLANT OUTDOORS
After danger of frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in well-worked soil. Space seeds 2 inches apart, cover very lightly, gently firm soil and water carefully. Keep seedbed evenly moist. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to final spacing. For Containers: space 6 inches apart. In Garden Beds: space 14-18 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Four weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant when seedlings are several inches tall.
CONTAINER GROWING
Big framed, bushy Lavertera plants need sizable pots, 16-18 inches tall and 14-16 inches in diameter. Use fresh, moistened potting soil. Check often: in hot weather, plants may need daily watering.
GROWING NOTES
Give these bushy, 2-2 1/2 foot tall plants enough room to flower freely. Water regularly and support long blooming by feeding with an all-purpose flower fertilizer every few weeks. Lavatera’s cheerful pink and white chalice-shaped flowers attract and feed bees, butterflies and beneficial insects. They also make long-lasting bouquet flowers.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Long-Lasting Sunflowers High Noon
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Plant in full sun in good garden soil when weather is warm and settled both day and night and all danger of frost is past. Poke seeds into well-worked soil 1⁄2 inch deep and 4 to 5 inches apart. Press soil firmly over seeds and keep moist until germination in 8 to 10 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1⁄2 inch deep in individual pots of well-drained seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outside when night temperatures reach 50-55°F (10-13°C). Transplant carefully into the garden in full sun, disturbing the roots as little as possible.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 12 inches apart so plants have ample room to grow.
GROWING NOTES
Growing these flowers is easy and rewarding. Make several sowings, three weeks apart, to have a succession of bloom. Keep soil moist and well weeded and protect seedlings from hungry birds with netting or plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Sunflowers need room! Be sure to thin seedlings when 3 inches tall to 12 inches apart.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Pollinator Dahlias Summer Fireworks
PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Frost tender.
Summer/fall bloom.BEST TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 2 inches apart in containers of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last spring frost. Cover ½ inch deep, keep moist and warm and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. When weather is warm and settled, acclimate seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions. Plant 16-18 inches apart in full sun.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Wait until weather is warm and settled and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds ½ inch deep and 16-18 inches apart in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Cover lightly and keep soil moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When well-established, thin carefully to one single seedling 16-18 inches apart, so plants have room to grow. Keep evenly watered.
GROWING NOTES
Encourage growth and bloom by feeding monthly with a liquid, all-purpose fertilizer. Deadhead to prolong bloom. These dahlias will produce underground tubers after their first season.
In mild winter climates: Tubers can overwinter in the ground. In cold winter climates: Dig up the tubers in late fall to replant next spring.
Plants grow 4-5 feet tall with branching stems of big, colorful, star-like blossoms to enjoy in casual bouquets. These vigorous plants will bloom all season long.
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Heirloom Scabiosa Dark Night
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostFOR BEST RESULTS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 2 or 3 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are ready to transplant. Plant out strong, sturdy seedlings into fertile garden soil, spacing 12-15 inches apart in full sun.
TO START SEEDS OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a well-drained, prepared garden bed in full sun as soon as soil can be worked in spring. Space seeds 8 to 10 inches apart in rows a foot apart and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 12 to 15 days. Weed carefully and keep well watered. Thin sturdy seedlings to 12-15 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower throughout the summer and fall. Curving wiry stems are part of this plant's character; support them for best flowering displays.
Cut often for bouquets and to produce more blossoms. In mild winter areas, they are a short-lived perennial and will overwinter to bloom a second season.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price perNew -
Bouquet Cosmos Velouette
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, 1 to 2 inches apart in a sunny location in well-worked garden soil once danger of frost is past. Keep seed bed moist. Seedlings emerge in 5 to 10 days. Keep well weeded and watered while plants are young; mature cosmos can handle hot and dry conditions.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until ready to go outside. Plant outdoors once weather warms up after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space 8 inches apart when seedlings are large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
These free-flowering, long blooming summer flowers fill the garden with vibrant color, producing reliably in all soil types. Sow several times through June for a succession of fresh flowers. Cutting generous bouquets actually prolongs the blooming season. Velouette's flower colors blend together for bouquets that arrange themselves.
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Pollinator Wildflowers Vanity Verbena
TENDER PERENNIAL GROWN AS ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before last frost date. Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep moist but not soggy and provide a strong light source. Vanity germinates best in cool temps between 68-70°F (20°-21°C). Be patient; seeds germinate slowly over 14-28 days. When seedlings are about 2 to 3 inches tall, and night temperatures are above 50°F (10°C), acclimate to outdoor conditions and plant 12-15 inches apart.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Sow in well-worked beds after night temperatures reach 50°F (10°C). Plant seeds 4 inches apart and cover very lightly. Keep soil evenly moist. Thin the sturdiest seedlings 12-15 inches apart, giving plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Branching, compact Vanity grows 2 1/2 feet tall and wide with vivid flower clusters that bloom hard all summer. Pollinators of every kind love visiting these nectar-rich flowers. Vanity is also long-lasting and decorative in bouquets.
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Pollinator Herbs Root Beer Hyssop
FROST TENDER PERENNIAL
Spring to fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of well-drained seed starting mix 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. Transplant into individual containers once seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of true leaves. Transplant into garden once weather warms up after gradually acclimating seedlings to outdoor conditions.
TO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds directly into well-worked garden soil in full sun once all danger of frost is past. Space seeds 3 inches apart and cover about 1/4 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 14 days. See final spacing below.
PLANT SPACING
When well established, thin or transplant seedlings 9 to 12 inches apart so plants have room to mature. You can transplant extra seedlings when thinning.
GROWING NOTES
Throughout summer, multiple purple-blue flower spikes attract myriads of honeybees, butterflies and other important garden pollinators. Cut spent spikes to encourage reblooming all season. Use the sweet licorice scented leaves in Asian style stirfries and add to herbal teas. Plants will overwinter in mild climates.Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Hummingbird Salvia Firelight Mix
TENDER PERENNIAL
Grown As Annual
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Five to six weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant in the garden. Acclimate seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions when night temperatures are regularly above 50°F (10°C). Space seedlings 10 to 12 inches apart in the garden.
TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a well-worked seed bed in full sun when all danger of frost is past and weather is warm and settled. Space seeds 4 to 5 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination in 10 to 20 days.
GROWING NOTES
Firelight’s bright blossoms in three complementary shades will glow in garden beds or as container flowers. Use these warm colors to advantage in summer bouquets to add texture, color and form. You’ll find our Firelight Salvia is a low-maintenance plant, but removing spent flower heads will encourage more extended flowering.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Cornflowers Velvet Dawn
HARDY ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Can handle light frostTO START OUTDOORS
Sow seeds in a finely textured garden bed in full sun as soon as soil can be worked. In mild winter areas, where the ground doesn’t freeze, plant in fall for next spring’s bloom. Space seeds 1 to 2 inches apart and cover ½ inch deep. Keep seed bed moist until seedlings emerge in 7 to 10 days. Weed and water carefully. Thin seedlings to 6 to 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds 1 to 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix, 2 or 3 weeks before last expected frost. Cover 1/2 inch deep, keep moist and provide a good light source until seedlings are transplanted outside. Plant 6 to 8 inches apart into fertile garden soil in full sun when plants are 3 to 4 inches tall. Seedlings grow quickly; plant out before the roots get crowded.
GROWING NOTES
In mild winter areas the best Cornflowers (aka Bachelor Buttons) result from seeds sown in fall to bloom the next spring. In cold winter areas where ground freezes, plant in early spring to get sturdy plants that will flower for many weeks if faded blossoms are removed.
Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Pollinator Flowers Early Blooming Beekeeper's Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Frost tenderBEST TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In early spring, after all danger of frost is past, plant in a well-prepared garden bed in full sun. Shake packet to mix. Scatter the seed thinly and evenly over finely worked soil, aiming to have the seeds about an inch or so apart. Cover lightly, about 1/4 inch deep, and gently firm the soil over the seeds—a rake is handy for this step. Water thoroughly and evenly with a very gentle spray. Keep the seedbed moist while awaiting germination and while flowers are actively growing for the most blossoms.
GROWING NOTES
This fast-growing, early flowering annual mix blooms in succession and provides a sustained feast for bees and other pollinators. The many flower colors and shapes blend beautifully for bouquets.
Regular price $3.99Sale price $3.99Unit price per -
Pelargonium Fancy Pants
PERENNIAL
Spring/summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderBEST TO START SEEDS EARLY INDOORS
In early spring, 8 to 10 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover lightly, no more than 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and about 65-75°F (18-24°C). Provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Feed seedlings every 2 weeks with half-strength liquid fertilizer. Once large enough to handle, move seedlings into individual 3-4 inch containers to develop root systems. When weather is above 55°F (13°C) night and day, acclimate 3-4 inch long seedlings outdoors, then transplant into final containers.
CONTAINER GROWING
Choose hanging baskets, pots or windowboxes at least 12-15 inches in diameter and 8-10 inches deep. Fill with well moistened fresh potting mix. Transplant well developed seedlings into containers, spacing them 4 inches apart. Gently water after planting. Keep containers in a filtered sun location or a spot with afternoon shade.
GROWING NOTES
Keep Pelargoniums well watered all summer and mulch pots well to retain soil moisture. Feed them with good all-purpose fertilizer twice a month according to package directions. Remove spent flowers and seedpods to encourage reblooming.
Regular price $4.99Sale price $4.99Unit price per -
Heirloom Dwarf Zinnias Thumbelina Mix
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderEASIEST TO PLANT OUTDOORS
After danger of frost is past, sow seeds in full sun in well-worked soil. For container sowing, use fresh potting mix. Space seeds 2 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. When seedlings are several inches tall, thin to final spacing: For Containers, space plants 4 inches apart; In Garden Beds, space 8 inches apart.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Several weeks before last frost date, sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until ready to plant outdoors. Transplant carefully before plants get too large.
CONTAINER GROWING
Use containers a minimum of 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep. Fill with well moistened, fresh potting mix.
GROWING NOTES
These carefree 12 to 16 inch tall zinnias perform well in hot and sunny conditions. Thin young seedlings to final spacing before too large. Water regularly and consistently. Support plants’ rapid growth by feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks. Remove spent flowers often to encourage new blooms.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Giant Bouquet Marigolds Orange & Yellow Beast
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO PLANT OUTDOORS
Sow seeds directly into well-worked garden soil in full sun once all danger of frost is past. Space seeds 3 inches apart and cover about 1/4 inch deep. Keep soil evenly moist. Germination takes 7 to 10 days. When seedlings are about 3 inches tall, carefully thin them to a final spacing of 9-12 inches apart because these vigorous, tall plants need room to grow and bloom. Extra thinned seedlings can be transplanted easily.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow seeds several inches apart in a container of well-drained seed starting mix 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost date. Cover 1/4 inch deep, keep moist and provide a strong light source until ready to go outside. Transplant 9-12 inches apart once weather warms up and nights are above 55° F (13° C).
GROWING NOTES
These carefree, non-fussy branching plants reach 3-3 1/2 feet tall with long-lasting big blossoms and blue-green foliage. Perfect in any sunny spot for nonstop color all season long with armfuls of long stemmed flowers for big bouquets. Support the tall, hard blooming plants with stakes or flower supports. Feed and water regularly. No need to pinch plants or remove spent flowers for spectacular long bloom.
Regular price $4.69Sale price $4.69Unit price per -
Bonus Pack Early Blooming Beekeeper's Mix
ANNUAL
Spring/summer bloom
Frost tenderBEST TO START DIRECTLY OUTDOORS
In early spring, after all danger of frost is past, plant in a well-prepared garden bed in full sun. Shake packet to mix. Scatter the seed thinly and evenly over finely worked soil, aiming to have the seeds about an inch or so apart. Cover lightly, about 1/4 inch deep, and gently firm the soil over the seeds – a rake is handy for this step.
Water thoroughly and evenly with a very gentle spray. Keep the seed bed moist while awaiting germination and while flowers are actively growing for the most blossoms. The many flower varieties in this pretty mix will grow and bloom in succession throughout late spring and summer.
Regular price $9.99Sale price $9.99Unit price per -
Scented Sweet Peas Fire and Ice
ANNUAL CLIMBING VINE
Spring/summer bloom
Frost tolerantEASIEST TO START OUTDOORS
Sweet peas must have well-drained soil, so dig deeply and enrich with aged manure or compost before sowing seeds. Erect a well-anchored trellis, vertical netting or other support for vines before planting. Sow seeds in full sun in cool early spring weather as early as the ground can be worked.
In mild winters, where ground does not freeze, sweet peas can be planted in fall. Seedlings will form strong root systems, then overwinter to bloom vigorously in spring. Plant sweet pea seeds 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin to 4-5 inches apart to allow plants room to mature.
GROWING NOTES
Sweet peas bloom best when they flower before the weather gets too hot, so if spring planting, sow as early as possible, especially in regions where summer heat comes on fast. Anchor climbing supports well as these vines will grow dense and heavy with bloom. Protect seedlings from birds, slugs and snails. Mulch and keep well watered for best flower production. For longest bloom, remove faded blossoms regularly.Regular price $3.39Sale price $3.39Unit price per -
Bonus Pack Texas Bluebonnets
Annual USDA Zones 5-8
Bluebonnets require full sun and well-drained ordinary soil of moderate alkalinity. They will not tolerate heavy clay soils, so if you have dense clay soil, grow them in raised beds amended with compost and sand to give them the good drainage they need. Bluebonnets are drought-adapted; do not overwater them during active growing periods.HOW BLUEBONNETS GROW AND WHAT THEY NEED
Bluebonnet’s large, hard-coated seeds respond best to late summer/fall planting as exposure to winter soil abrasion. Precipitation and weather changes break down the naturally tough outer coat of the seeds to produce germination in fall or early spring. As spring breaks, plants respond to sun and warmth, and then bloom gloriously, attracting happy bees and butterflies. The beautiful flower spikes are deep blue with white tips. After flowering, seedpods form, dry and drop seed to rebloom the next season.
SOWING AND GROWING BLUEBONNETS
Plant seeds in late summer or early fall to overwinter and bloom the next spring (in hard winter areas, sow in very early spring). Plant in ordinary garden soil, preparing the soil by removing weeds, grass and stones. Evenly loosen the top 4 inches of soil with a shovel or digging fork and break up soil clumps, then rake smooth.
Broadcast the seed over the seed bed, aiming for 6 inch spacing. Cover lightly with soil, tamping it down to make sure the seeds get good soil contact. Water in well at planting time, then keep moist but on the dry side until seasonal rains take over. Seeds may take 3 to 4 weeks to slowly and unevenly germinate. Foliage rosettes of 5-7 leaves will develop close to the ground and overwinter that way. (If cold weather comes on, seeds may delay germination until the next spring.) After germination, seedlings develop long tap roots and usually don’t require additional irrigation.
In mild early spring weather, bluebonnets will actively begin growing again. Plants rapidly develop multiple 8-12 inch flowering stalks that bloom in a gorgeous blue color with white tips. After the colorful flowers fade, green seedpods form. When they are dried up and dark brown, pods pop open and drop seed to self-sow for next spring’s flowers.
Regular price $9.99Sale price $9.99Unit price per -
Butterfly Flowers Swallowtail Fennel
PERENNIAL
USDA zone 5-9
TO PLANT DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
In spring when danger of hard frost is past, sow seeds 1 inch apart in finely worked, well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Cover 1/2 inch deep, firm soil and keep seed bed moist. Germination takes 2 to 3 weeks. After seedlings are well established, carefully thin or transplant 1 1/2 feet apart to allow plants room to mature.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Sow thinly in a container of seed starting mix, 4 to 6 weeks before last expected frost. Keep warm and evenly moist, and provide a good light source. When seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, acclimate gradually to outdoor conditions before carefully transplanting as above.
GROWING NOTES
Plant in very well-drained soil. Seedlings grow slowly at first; watch out for them closely as their bronze color makes them easy weed out by accident.
The branching feathery fronds crowned by intricate yellow flowers provide valuable nectar and pollen to a wide range of butterflies, ladybugs, lacewings and other beneficial insects. Colorful blue-green, and copper-bronze foliage is a beautiful contrast with the green foliage and bright colors of summer annuals.
Regular price $3.69Sale price $3.69Unit price per -
Butterfly Coreopsis Incredible
ANNUAL
Summer/fall bloom
Frost tenderTO START OUTDOORS
Plant after frost danger is over and night temperatures are evenly above 50°F (10°C). Sow seeds in a well-worked seedbed in full sun, 2 in. apart, with rows 12 in. apart. Cover very lightly and gently firm soil. Keep soil evenly moist; germination takes 10-15 days.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
3-4 weeks before last expected frost, sow seeds 1 in. apart in seed starting mix and cover very lightly. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are well established. Transplant after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.
THIN OR TRANSPLANT
Space seedlings 10 in. apart when large enough to handle.
GROWING NOTES
Coreopsis grows easily in ordinary garden soil in full sun. Be sure to thin seedlings before they get crowded. Incredible grows 2 to 2 1/2 ft. tall and these sturdy, long blooming garden performers and can tolerate hot and dry weather. Pick these decorative flowers often for lovely country style bouquets. Coreopsis are deer resistant and blossoms provide ample food and nectar for butterflies, bees and many other pollinators. After bloom is over, their seed heads provide nutritious food for hungry songbirds.
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