Most Annual Flower Seeds Need No Cold Stratification

What Is Cold Stratification of Seeds?

Some seeds, especially those of the perennial native wildflowers, need to be placed in a cold place for a period  before the time for germination. It is okay if those seeds are stored in a refrigerator, but I choose to sow my seeds outside during the late fall. Winter’s cold weather will stratify those seeds naturally.

Most Annuals Should be Sown After There Is No Risk of Frost

Many perennial native wildflowers self-sow, and to protect them from the winter’s chill, the germination of these tough-skinned wildflowers is postponed until the time is right for them to complete the germination process; Winter softens the seed’s skin and naturally prepares it for germination.

AnnuL seeds do not have tough skins and they should be sown outside after there is no danger of frost. These seeds may be started early inside.

List of My Favorite Annual Seeds to Sow Outside

Heavenly Blue Morning Glory
Image Credit: Burpee

I sow Heavenly Blue Morning Glory Seeds Directly Outside After There Is No Danger of Frost;

Zinnias
Image Credit: American Meadows

 

“Zinnias are some of the most reliable and colorful annuals to plant for those who wish to attract pollinators to both the butterfly and veggie garden.

Growth Habit:

Zinnias come in a wide variety of plant sizes. Some are low-growing. 1-foot tall plants with a mounding habit. Others are 3-foot tall plants with big flowers. ” American Meadows

California Giants Zinnias
Image Credit: American Meadows
Height: Up to 48″ Tall

Sow California Giants Zinnia Seeds Outside Around Mother’s Day

 

 

Heavenly Blue Morning Glory – The Heirloom My Grandmother Grew – Compared to the Weed Ivyleaf Morning Glory

Scarlet Runner Beans in Jacki Kellum’s Cottage Garden

For years, I have grown Scarlet Runner Beans in my cottage gardens. I’ve said many times before, but allow me to repeat myself: The earliest cottage gardeners were peasants who had very little land, and much of their cottage and/or kitchen gardens were grown vertically. I subscribe to that practice.

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