Growing a garden full of vibrant flowers can be surprisingly simple. Some annuals and perennials are so easy to grow from seeds that all you need to do is scatter them where you want them to bloom.
Seriously, it’s that straightforward. Direct sowing flower seeds is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to enjoy a garden packed with flowers all season long with minimal effort. It’s amazing what a tiny $3 packet of seeds can do. This approach is perfect for new gardeners who want to start small and experienced ones looking to fill some gaps. Direct sowing means you skip the whole indoor seed-starting process and just spread the seeds in your garden according to the instructions on the packet, usually after the last frost has passed. Besides picking a spot and keeping them watered while they germinate, it’s almost effortless.
My so-called “problem” these days (if you can even call it that) is that just when I think I’ve ordered my last batch of seeds, I stumble upon an inspiring blog post or a gorgeous Instagram photo, and I’m right back to ordering more. But I think I’m finally done now. Looking back at the seeds I direct sow, I can’t help but appreciate these reliable bloomers.
These easy-to-grow, beginner-friendly flowers are hardy, low-maintenance, and mostly bother-free. They quickly establish themselves in your garden and provide continuous color all season long, while also being a favorite among pollinators.
I thought I’d share some of my top picks with you. These sun-loving flower factories are incredible, and aside from a few exceptions, they’re usually done after the first frost. This isn’t an exhaustive list—just the seeds I’ve grown and absolutely love in my garden.
1. Coneflower (Echinacea spp.)
Coneflowers are a resilient choice for any garden. These native perennials thrive on neglect, making them ideal for novice gardeners. Their large, daisy-like flowers boast an extended bloom period from June to August, attracting butterflies, birds, and bees. Coneflowers grow best in hardiness zones 3 to 10 and prefer full sun to light shade.
To get them started, sow coneflower seeds directly outdoors in early spring or fall. Lightly cover the seeds with soil about 1/8-inch deep. You’ll see seedlings emerging in 10 to 21 days. With minimal care, coneflowers will return each year, getting bigger and better with each season.
2. Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)
Morning Glories are known for their stunning, trumpet-shaped blooms that open in the morning and close by afternoon. These annual climbers flourish in hardiness zones 2 to 11 and require full sun. Blooming from June until the first frost, Morning Glories attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Direct sow Morning Glory seeds after the last frost date. Scarify the seeds before planting to speed up germination, which typically occurs in 5 to 21 days. These vigorous climbers can reach heights of 10 to 15 feet, making them perfect for trellises, fences, or arbors.
3. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
The California Poppy brings a splash of color to gardens with its bright, cup-shaped blooms that last from early spring through summer. Preferring full sun, these annuals are perfect for hardiness zones 6 to 10. They attract bees and other beneficial insects, making them a delightful addition to any garden.
To sow California Poppy seeds, scatter them directly onto the soil surface before the last frost in early spring. There’s no need to cover the seeds; they require light to germinate, which usually happens within 14 to 21 days. California Poppies will reseed themselves, providing vibrant blooms year after year.
4. Viper’s Bugloss (Echium vulgare)
Viper’s Bugloss is a biennial or short-lived perennial that offers striking spikes of blue flowers. This plant thrives in full sun and grows well in hardiness zones 3 to 8. Blooming from June to September, Viper’s Bugloss is a magnet for bees and butterflies, adding both beauty and biodiversity to your garden.
Direct sow Viper’s Bugloss seeds in early spring or fall. Scatter the seeds and lightly cover them with soil. Germination typically takes 21 to 30 days. Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for low-water gardens.
5. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
Sunflowers are the epitome of summer. With their towering height and cheerful blooms, they are a garden favorite. Plant them in full sun and well-drained soil right after the last frost. Sunflowers are incredibly versatile, fitting in hardiness zones 4 through 9. Their germination is quick, taking about 7 to 10 days. From early summer to fall, their large yellow heads will draw the attention of bees, birds, and passersby. By the way, don’t limit yourself to the classic yellow; varieties in red, orange, and even white add a delightful twist.
6. Honeywort (Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’)
Honeywort, also known as Blue Shrimp plant, features unique, tubular flowers that draw bees and hummingbirds. Suitable for hardiness zones 7 to 11, Honeywort prefers full sun to partial shade and blooms from late spring to early fall.
Direct sow Honeywort seeds in late spring when the soil has warmed. Lightly cover the seeds with soil. Germination takes about 14 to 21 days. Honeywort is a hardy, easy-to-grow annual that adds a distinctive look to flower beds and borders.
7. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
Columbine plants are short-lived perennials known for their distinctive bell-shaped flowers. Blooming in late spring, these plants thrive in hardiness zones 3 to 9 and attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. Columbine prefers partial shade to full sun and naturalizes well in the garden.
Sow Columbine seeds in autumn or mid-winter. The seeds require a chilling period of 3 to 4 weeks for germination. Once the soil warms in spring, the seeds will sprout in 30 to 90 days. Although Columbine plants may only last 2 to 3 seasons, they will self-seed, ensuring a continuous display of delicate blooms.
8. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are a gardener’s favorite for their bright colors and easy growth. Perfect for beginners, these annuals thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. Once the frost has passed, scatter zinnia seeds on the soil surface and lightly cover them. With a germination period of 7 to 14 days, you’ll see sprouts quickly. Blooming from early summer until the first frost, zinnias attract butterflies and are excellent as cut flowers. These heat-tolerant plants grow best in hardiness zones 2-11. Regular deadheading will ensure continuous blooms, adding a splash of color to any garden bed.
9. Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia ‘Prairie Sun’)
With its bright yellow petals and green center, Rudbeckia ‘Prairie Sun’ is a stunning addition to any garden. This annual plant thrives in zones 3 to 10. Sow seeds in early spring, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, and germination should occur within 7 to 14 days. Blooming from midsummer through fall, these flowers are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. Their long-lasting blooms are perfect for attracting butterflies and birds.
10. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are known for their cheerful and robust flowers that bloom from late spring to fall. Direct sow marigold seeds after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them about 1 inch apart. These hardy annuals germinate in 5 to 14 days and prefer full sun. Ideal for zones 2-11, marigolds are low-maintenance and thrive even in poor soil conditions. Not only do they add bright oranges and yellows to the garden, but they also repel pests, making them a perfect companion plant. Their continuous blooms and ease of care make marigolds a staple in many gardens.
11. Honesty (Lunaria annua ‘Chedglow’)
Honesty, also known as Money Plant, is an enchanting biennial that adds unique charm to gardens. This variety, Lunaria annua ‘Chedglow,’ stands out with its shimmering, paper-thin seed pods appearing in late summer. Ideal for hardiness zones 5 to 8, honesty plants bloom from April to June, bearing clusters of purple flowers. Direct sow seeds in the fall or early spring, pressing them gently into the soil but not covering them, as they need light to germinate. In 14 to 21 days, you’ll see green seedlings emerging. These plants prefer full sun to part shade and will self-seed, providing endless beauty in your garden.
12. Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
Amaranth is a versatile plant known not only for its striking flowers but also for its edible leaves and grains. Sow amaranth seeds directly in the soil after the last frost, ensuring they are in full sun or partial shade. These hardy annuals germinate in 7 to 14 days and can grow in zones 2-11. Amaranth reaches towering heights with feathery blooms in shades of red, gold, and green. Blooming from summer to fall, this drought-tolerant plant requires minimal care and can add both beauty and utility to your garden.
13. Tall Verbena (Verbena bonariensis)
This tall, airy perennial is a showstopper in any landscape. Native to South America, Verbena bonariensis thrives in USDA zones 7 to 10. Plant these seeds in mid to late spring after the danger of frost has passed. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Germination can be a little slow, sometimes taking up to a month, but the effort is well worth it. Blooming from late spring to the first frost, their clusters of small purple flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
14. Flowering Tobacco (Nicotiana alata )
Nicotiana alata brings fragrant blooms and unique tubular flowers to your garden. Suitable for zones 10 to 11, it thrives in full sun to partial shade. Early spring is the best time for sowing seeds directly in the garden. Lightly cover them with soil and water regularly to encourage germination in 7 to 14 days. Flowering tobacco will grace your garden with its evening scent from early summer until the first frost, making it an excellent choice for moon gardens.
15. Hyacinth Bean Vine (Lablab purpureus)
Hyacinth bean vine brings both beauty and utility to your garden with its vibrant purple flowers and versatile beans. This annual vine thrives in zones 9 to 11, favoring full sun. Direct sow seeds in late spring after the last frost. To encourage quick germination, which happens in 10 to 14 days, soak the seeds in water overnight before planting. The vine will bloom from midsummer through fall, adding vertical interest and attracting pollinators. Note that while the beans are edible, they must be cooked thoroughly.
