Starting a cut flower garden is an exciting endeavor, yet can also seem somewhat overwhelming. The best advice I can give is to just start. Start small, even one flower selection initially, and know that every season will be better than the last. Much of gardening is going through the experience first hand and understanding what improvements need to be made for the following year. Enjoy the process and get excited about the endless bouquets for your home and friends.
If I was starting a cut flower garden from scratch today these are the top 7 flowers I’d grow:
1. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus):
Known for their unique snap-like blooms and adding height and whimsy to any garden. With a variety of colors available, they’re versatile and long-lasting, making them perfect for arrangements or standalone bouquets. Plant snapdragon seeds in well-draining soil in a sunny spot, and enjoy their blooms from late spring to early summer.
2. Ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus):
Renowned for their intricate, rose-like blooms and vibrant colors, ranunculus are a must-have for any cutting garden. These tender perennials produce layers of delicate petals in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow, adding elegance to any bouquet. Plant ranunculus tubers in the fall or spring, and marvel at their beauty throughout the growing season.
3. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans):
Zinnias are easy-to-grow and offer a dazzling array of colors and shapes, making them a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. Plant zinnia seeds directly in the ground after the danger of frost has passed, and enjoy a summer filled with cheerful blooms that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
4. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus):
Sunflowers are iconic for their bright yellow petals and dark centers, adding a touch of cheerfulness to any garden. Plant sunflower seeds in fertile, well-draining soil in a sunny location, and be amazed by their impressive height and abundance of blooms.
5. Dahlias (Dahlia spp.):
With their intricate blooms and vibrant colors, dahlias are a show-stopping addition to any garden. Plant dahlia tubers in the spring and prepare to be dazzled by their beauty throughout the summer and fall.
6. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus):
Sweet peas are beloved for their delicate tendrils and intoxicating fragrance, making them a cherished addition to bouquets and arrangements. Plant sweet pea seeds in early spring in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and enjoy armfuls of fragrant blooms.
7. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus):
Cosmos are easy to grow and offer daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, white, and crimson, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. Plant cosmos seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date and enjoy a summer filled with whimsical blooms.
Additional tips:
Growing and maintaining a cut flower garden is a delightful and rewarding hobby. First, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Next, regular watering and fertilizing will keep your plants healthy and vibrant. Pruning and deadheading will encourage new growth and prolong blooming periods. Lastly, enjoy your fresh flowers by cutting them early in the morning for the best quality. With these simple steps, your garden will flourish and provide stunning bouquets year-round.
Creating a cut flower garden is a rewarding journey that promises to fill your home with beauty and fragrance. With these seven stunning flowers, your garden will be bursting with color and life, providing endless inspiration for bouquets and arrangements.
Happy gardening! x
*For additional tips and tricks, make sure to read this earlier article: Prepare your Cut Flower Garden with these 5 tips
