Resources
When to Plant Wildflowers
In Your State and Region
Planting a wildflower garden or yard is an exciting journey, and knowing when to plant wildflowers is the first step. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through when, where, and how to plant wildflowers.
- Understanding Your Planting Zone
- Choosing The Right Seed Mix for Your Area
- The Ideal Planting Season by Region
- When to Plant Wildflowers in the Southeast
- When to Plant Wildflowers in the Southwest
- When to Plant Wildflowers in the Northeast
- When to Plant Wildflowers in the Midwest
- When to Plant Wildflowers on the West Coast
- When to Plant Wildflowers in the Rockies
- When to Plant Wildflowers in Alaska
- When to Plant Wildflowers on Hawaii
- How to Plant Wildflowers, Step-by-Step
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary
Understanding Your Planting Zone
The U.S. is divided into several planting zones based on climate, known as USDA hardiness zones. These zones help you figure out the best planting times and which wildflowers will flourish in your region.
For instance, if you're in warmer southern states like Texas (Zones 6-9), fall planting is optimal. Meanwhile, in areas with harsher winters, such as Minnesota (Zones 3-5), you’ll want to plant in early spring. Not sure about your zone? Check out our Plant Zone Map above to get started!
Quick Tip: Choose seed mixes labeled for your zone to ensure your blooms thrive in local conditions.
Choosing The Right Wildflower Seed Mix
You may be thinking that once you know your area's hardiness zone, you're ready to start planting wildflowers in your backyard garden. Not so fast!
Not all wildflowers grow equally well everywhere. Some thrive in thick, hot Southern summers. Others can withstand the bitter frost of winter in the Midwest and bloom again in the spring.
When selecting seeds, always opt for species native to your area. Introducing wildflower species that aren't meant for your area could make for a disappointing blooming season. Native wildflowers not only adapt well to your climate but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Created By Nature specializes in curating premium seed mixes and individual wildflower varieties tailored to specific regions, states, and national parks. These include types of wildflowers native to these regions, ensuring they’re easy to grow in local climates.
Best Time to Plant Wildflowers by Region
Regardless of your grow zone, planting season plays a crucial role in your garden's success. For most wildflowers, there are two planting seasons: spring and fall. How early or late you can plant during these seasons depends on your region.
The soil conditions and temperature during these seasons facilitate seed germination and growth, giving your wildflower yard a head start. Now, let's dive into the best times to plant for each season in the U.S.
When to Plant Wildflowers in the Southeast (Zones 6-11) & Helpful Tips:
If you're in the South, you're in luck! Not only are more wildflowers available to plant for your area thanks to little to no frosts during the winter, but planting season comes earlier for your neck of the woods.
Florida in particular spans four hardiness zones (8-11), so be sure to check the exact planting zone for your address. Luckily, we offer a seed mix that's easy to grow in any part of the Sunshine State!
Click on your state below to find the best wildflower mix for your area!
- States: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee
- Planting Season: Fall, winter, or early spring
- Key Considerations: Avoid planting in mid-summer as intense heat can harm young seedlings. Late Fall is often best, as winter rains promote vibrant spring blooms.
- Recommended Seed Mixes: Try our Southeast Wildflower Mixes for varieties that thrive in humidity.
When to Plant Wildflowers in the Southwest (Zones 6-10) & Helpful Tips:
If you live in areas with little to no frost throughout the year, wildflowers can be planted and grown at any time (though we don't advise you sow seeds during the hottest time of the year).
Live in the Southwest? Click on your state below to find your specially curated wildflower mix!
- States: Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and southern California
- Planting Season: Fall or after seasonal rains
- Key Considerations: Thanks to arid, dry areas in this region, making sure you regularly water your wildflowers is essential. Drought-resistant seeds like Sunflowers and Lavender perform exceptionally well.
- Recommended Mixes: If you live around the mountains of Arizona or New Mexico, look at our suggestions for growing wildflowers in the Rockies here.
Pro Tip: Avoid sowing seeds in the peak summer months to prevent heat damage.
When to Plant Wildflowers in the Northeast (Zones 3-7) & Helpful Tips:
If your area experiences snow and frost, planting wildflowers in warmer months - when the soil reaches at least 55°F - is best.
For fall planting, sow seeds after the first frost to avoid early germination. Cold winters and damp soil will help seeds establish for vibrant spring blooms.
- States: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia
- Planting Season: Early spring or late fall
- Key Considerations: For spring planting, sow after the last frost of the season. Fall planting? Wait until the first frost to prevent premature germination.
- Recommended Mixes: Our Northeast Wildflower Mixes includes native species for a colorful and ecosystem-friendly garden.
Pro Tip: Beware the late spring frost! A cold snap will stunt or kill your newly planted seeds or younglings. For best practice, plant within a month of the last frost of the season.
When to Plant Wildflowers in the Midwest (Zones 3-7) & Helpful Tips:
If you're from the Midwest, you're familiar with the region's vast diversity. From balmy to severe, Midwestern winters vary significantly, with the region spanning five different hardiness zones.
When to plant in your state will largely depend on when your winters begin and end. Generally, plant between mid-March and mid-May; areas with longer growing seasons can plant as late as mid-June.
Live in the Midwest? Click on your state below to find your 'Guaranteed to Grow' wildflower mix!
- States: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin
- Planting Season: Mid-March to mid-May in spring or October/November for fall
- Key Considerations: Timing depends on your local area’s growing season. Opt for early blooming varieties like Black-Eyed Susan for spring planting.
- Recommended Mixes: Our Midwest Wildflower Mixes ensure a hardy, stunning flower display.
Pro Tip: If your specific location experiences milder winters, there's also an opportunity for fall planting. October and November can serve as ideal planting months, giving your seeds an early start for spring growth.
When to Plant Wildflowers on the West Coast & Helpful Tips:
The West Coast's climate varies from the cool, wet regions of the Pacific Northwest to the hot, dry conditions of Southern California. These variations create a diverse range of environments where a multitude of wildflowers can thrive.
Live on the West Coast? Click on your state below to find your specially curated wildflower mix!
- States: California, Oregon, and Washington
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Key Considerations: Milder Pacific Northwest climates enable a flexible planting window, while drier southern areas benefit from planting ahead of winter rains.
- Recommended Mixes: Our West Coast Wildflower Mixes includes species ideal for this diverse climatic region.
Pro Tip: For Zones 6-7 in the Pacific Northwest, plant in spring after frost or in fall for hardy species. Zones 8-9 allow planting in early spring or fall, timed with rainy seasons for optimal growth. Zone 10’s mild climate favors fall planting but allows flexibility, with some gardeners planting as late as November or December.
When to Plant Wildflowers in the Rockies (Zones 2-7)
The Rocky Mountain region, spanning states from Arizona to Montana, offers a unique blend of climates and hardiness zones. It's great for hitting the slopes and other winter activities – but what about wildflowers?
Even states with the harshest winters in this region are home to native wildflowers.
Live in the Rockies? Click on your state below to find your specially curated wildflower mix!
- States: Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming
- Planting Season: Late spring (May-June) or fall for lower elevations
- Key Considerations: High elevations often mean harsher conditions, so plant once the frost risk has passed. Hardy species like Lupine are perfect choices.
Pro Tips:
#1 - Add a layer of mulch for extra protection at higher altitudes.
#2 - Be sure to wait until the risk of frost has passed before sowing.
#3 - If you plant your seeds by October or November, you'll have an early spring bloom and a stronger root system for your wildflowers.
When to Plant Wildflowers in Alaska (Zones 1-8) & Helpful Tips:
Alaska is home to some of the most beautiful, natural landscapes and wildlife this country has to offer. Spanning eight zones in one single state, Alaska presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to planting wildflowers.
- Planting Season: Late spring to early summer after the soil thaws
- Key Considerations: Short growing seasons make cold-hardy and quick-blooming varieties your best bet.
- Recommended Mix: Created by Nature's Alaska Wildflower Seed Mix
Pro Tip: Southern coastal areas have a longer planting window than the frigid inland or Arctic zones.
Fun Facts:
Due to the harsh climate and short growing season, wildflower varieties that are more tolerant of cold conditions and that can grow quickly will have a higher success rate in Alaska.
Southern and coastal Alaska, including areas like Ketchikan and Sitka, provide excellent conditions for wildflower planting. These regions enjoy a cool maritime climate and longer growing seasons, making early spring (April-May) the ideal time to sow seeds. Be sure to plant once the ground has thawed and the risk of frost has passed.
Further inland and toward the north, conditions become more challenging. Areas such as Anchorage (Zone 4b-5a), Fairbanks (Zone 2b-3a), and the Arctic (Zone 1) experience harsh winters and shorter growing seasons. Here, late spring to early summer is the optimal planting window. Wait for the ground to fully thaw and ensure temperatures remain consistently above freezing before planting to encourage vibrant growth.
When to Plant Wildflowers in Hawaii (Zones 9-13) & Helpful Tips:
Famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and fascinating wildlife, Hawaii is also a hotspot for some beautiful wildflowers. With the state's hardiness zones ranging from 9 to 13, it offers a unique gardening experience.
- Planting Season: Before or during the rainy season (late fall to winter)
- Key Considerations: With warm weather year-round, tropical seed varieties like Zinnias will thrive. High-elevation areas have a more defined planting season.
For warmer zones (12-13) like Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, wildflower seeds can be planted year-round, with November—just before the rainy season—being ideal for optimal watering. Cooler zones (9-11) at higher elevations, such as Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, are best for planting between April and October during the warmer months.
How to Plant Wildflowers, Step-by-Step
Here's a simple guide to planting your wildflower seeds:
- Prepare the ground: Clear the area of grass and weeds. Wildflowers prefer poor soil, so there's no need for fertilizers or topsoil. Most wildflowers require full sun, so choose a spot with at least 6 hours of daily sunlight.
- Spread the seeds: Whether you spread by hand or with a seed spreader across a larger yard, distribute your seeds evenly around the chosen area.
- Sow the seeds: Gently press the seeds into the ground to protect them from birds and wind. Don't bury or cover the seeds with soil.
- Water the seeds: Keep the area moist until the seedlings reach about 4-6 inches tall. Once they've reached this height, they can generally survive on natural rainfall.
- Wait for blooms: Depending on your specific seed mix, you could see the first blooms in as early as six weeks.
- Maintain your garden: Wildflowers are some of the easiest plants to maintain in your garden, but be sure to keep the area free of weeds. Adding nutrients to your plants can aid in their growth. Be sure to water more often during dry spells.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to plant wildflower seeds in Zone 4?
In Zone 4, which experiences a shorter growing season and colder winters, the best time to plant wildflower seeds is in late spring, once the risk of frost has passed.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Zone 5?
Gardeners in Zone 5 should aim to plant wildflower seeds in early spring when the soil is beginning to warm up.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Zone 6?
In Zone 6, the optimal time to plant wildflower seeds is early spring or late fall. Planting in the fall allows the seeds to establish roots before winter.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Zone 7?
Zone 7 gardeners have flexibility, as both early spring and fall are suitable for planting wildflower seeds.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Zone 8?
If you live in Zone 8, the best time to plant wildflower seeds is in the fall, ahead of the rainy season and before the summer heat.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Texas?
Texas falls within Zones 6 to 9. The best time to plant wildflower seeds in Texas is typically in the fall, as the cooler weather helps seedlings establish before summer heat waves arrive.
When to plant wildflower seeds in California?
California spans Zones 5b to 11a. For most of the state, the ideal planting time is in late fall, ahead of winter rains, but for the mountainous regions (Zone 5b-6a), spring planting after the last frost is recommended.
When to plant wildflower seeds in Florida?
Florida's warm climate (Zones 8b to 11a) allows for a flexible planting schedule, but generally, planting in the fall will give your wildflowers a good start before the heat of summer.
Bring Nature to Your Doorstep Today!
Starting a wildflower garden is an adventure that pays off in a stunning display of colors, a habitat for local wildlife, and a beautiful outdoor space for you to enjoy.
Wildflowers require less maintenance than a typical flower garden, making them the perfect choice for home gardens. Not only will they beautify your space, they'll also attract pollinators and support your local ecosystem.
Now that you know the right time to plant your wildflowers, it's time to get to work: mark your calendars, get set, and plant!
