Guide to the Cheapest Flowers to Grow from Seed
Growing flowers from seed is one of the most cost-effective ways to create a beautiful garden. Not only does it save you money, but it also allows you to experiment with different flower varieties and enjoy the process of nurturing them from the very beginning. Here’s a florist guide to some of the cheapest flowers you can grow from seed, along with tips on how to do it successfully.
1. Sunflowers
Why They're Cheap: Sunflower seeds are inexpensive and widely available. They are hardy and easy to grow, making them an ideal choice for beginners.
Growing Tips:
Sunflowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
Sow seeds directly into the soil after the last frost date or start indoors and transplant.
Water regularly but avoid over-watering.
Provide support for taller varieties to prevent them from toppling over.
2. Marigolds
Why They're Cheap: Marigold seeds are affordable and widely available. They are also known for being prolific bloomers, meaning you get a lot of flowers from just a few seeds.
Growing Tips:
Marigolds do well in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Plant seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or sow directly in the garden once the weather is warm.
Marigolds are low-maintenance and can grow in most soil types.
3. Zinnias
Why They're Cheap: Zinnia seeds are inexpensive, and they grow quickly. Zinnias are also highly versatile and come in a wide range of colors, making them a popular choice for many gardeners.
Growing Tips:
Zinnias prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Plant seeds directly into the garden after the last frost, or start indoors 4-6 weeks prior.
Water regularly but avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
Thin seedlings to allow ample space for growth.
4. Cosmos
Why They're Cheap: Cosmos are easy to grow from seed and typically have a high germination rate. They are also drought-tolerant and require minimal care.
Growing Tips:
Cosmos prefer full sun and can grow in poor soil conditions, making them low-cost in terms of soil preparation.
Directly sow seeds in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Thin out seedlings to prevent overcrowding.
Water sparingly, as they are drought-tolerant once established.
5. Poppies
Why They're Cheap: Poppy seeds are tiny and inexpensive, and the flowers they produce are striking and unique. They’re easy to grow and often come back year after year.
Growing Tips:
Poppies grow best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Sow seeds directly in the garden in the fall or early spring. They don’t need to be buried, just lightly pressed into the soil.
Poppies are fairly drought-tolerant once established but do require regular watering while germinating.
6. Alyssum
Why They're Cheap: Alyssum seeds are very affordable and produce a large number of small, fragrant flowers. They're ideal for borders or ground cover and are easy to start from seed.
Growing Tips:
Alyssum prefers cooler weather, so it’s best to sow seeds in early spring or late summer for fall blooms.
Plant seeds directly into well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding and to allow air circulation.
7. Nasturtiums
Why They're Cheap: Nasturtium seeds are inexpensive, and the plants are known for being hardy and low-maintenance. Additionally, both the flowers and leaves are edible, adding another benefit to growing them.
Growing Tips:
Nasturtiums prefer full sun to partial shade and can grow in poorer soils.
Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, or start indoors and transplant.
These plants thrive with minimal care and are resistant to pests like aphids.
8. Bachelor’s Buttons (Cornflowers)
Why They're Cheap: Bachelor’s button seeds are affordable and are often grown in wildflower mixes. These flowers are easy to grow and are known for their beautiful, vibrant blue color.
Growing Tips:
Sow seeds directly in the soil in early spring or fall, as they are hardy and can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Bachelor’s buttons prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Thin seedlings to allow proper air circulation and prevent fungal issues.
9. Sweet Peas
Why They're Cheap: Sweet pea seeds are relatively inexpensive and offer a sweet fragrance and colorful blooms. While they may take a bit longer to bloom compared to some other flowers, they are well worth the wait.
Growing Tips:
Sweet peas thrive in cooler weather, so it’s best to plant them in early spring or fall.
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
Provide a trellis or support structure for the vines to climb.
10. Sun Patients (Sun-Patiens)
Why They're Cheap: Sun Patients (a hybrid of impatiens) are affordable and grow quickly. They do well in both sun and shade, making them versatile.
Growing Tips:
Sun Patients can be grown in containers or flower beds with well-drained soil.
They thrive in partial to full sun.
Water regularly but avoid letting the soil become soggy.
Tips for Growing Flowers from Seed:
Start Early: Some flowers require a longer growing season, so starting seeds indoors before the last frost will give them a head start.
Use Good Quality Soil: Choose a light, well-draining potting mix for starting seeds. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too dense and may contain pests.
Provide Proper Lighting: If starting seeds indoors, ensure they have plenty of light. A sunny windowsill or grow lights can help.
Water Properly: Water seeds gently, ensuring they are moist but not soaking wet. Over-watering can cause the seeds to rot.
Thinning: Once seedlings have sprouted, thin them out to prevent overcrowding. This ensures that each plant has enough space and resources to grow strong.
Be Patient: Some flowers take longer to germinate than others. Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few weeks for the seeds to sprout.
Growing flowers from seed is a fun, rewarding, and inexpensive way to beautify your garden. By choosing cheap and easy-to-grow flowers such as sunflowers, marigolds, zinnias, and cosmos, you can create a colorful, thriving garden without breaking the bank. Happy gardening!
