Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Monday - May 11, 2015
From: Blanco, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Seeds and Seeding, Wildflowers
Title: Spring sowing of wildflower seeds in pots
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
Is it possible to start wildflower seeds in pots in the spring and then transplant them to the yard?ANSWER:
Yes, it's possible to do that for some wildflowers, but not for others. Spring-flowering wildflowers are either winter annuals or perennials. Winter annuals germinate in the fall and flower the following spring. Perennials may germinate at any time, but usually grow one to three years before flowering.
Fall-flowering annual wildflowers are good candidates for starting in pots and transplanting. However, there is not a lot of advantage in doing so and most folks simply sow the seeds directly in the garden where they want them.
More Wildflowers Questions
wildflowers with interesting seed heads for winter interest
January 09, 2015 - I am looking to establish a wildflower meadow this year, and I want to include wildflowers that have interesting seed heads for winter interest. What would be your recommendation?
Thanks!
view the full question and answer
Optimum mowing time for acreage with spring wildflowers
November 17, 2003 - I have several acres where wildflowers grow in the spring, & would like to know when and how often to mow this field for optimum blooms?
view the full question and answer
Wildflowers blooming in Austin in October
June 10, 2008 - Does the Austin area have any flowers that grow/bloom in October? I'm getting married in Austin in October and want the entire event to be as earth-friendly as possible..hence native flowers.
view the full question and answer
Bluebonnet blooming in July in Leander TX
July 27, 2009 - I have a bluebonnet growing in my front yard in July!
Early this year, my son planted the bluebonnet seeds. We did not expect them to grow since we planted them in February/March. One plant grew ...
view the full question and answer
Winter preparation for wildflowers
October 22, 2009 - My first attempt at my wild flower garden is successful. I planted a box of perennial seeds, so I don't know what type of plants I actually have. My concern is what to do once the temperature drop...
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |