Simple Bloom Options for Flower Growing Novices
In the world of gardening, there's a range of flowering plants that are perfect for beginners. These plants are not only easy to grow but also provide a burst of vibrant colors to your garden, making it a beautiful and welcoming space.
Zinnias are bright, colorful annual flowers that thrive in full sun. They germinate quickly, often within 2 days, and flowers appear in 6-8 weeks. Zinnias come in various colors like pink, purple, orange, yellow, and white[1][2][3].
Sunflowers are another easy-to-grow option, known for their cheerful faces. They grow well in well-drained soil and full sun. Sunflowers are excellent for beginners and children due to their low maintenance and fast growth[5].
Cosmos are another great choice, with delicate, fern-like foliage and pink and white flowers. They do well in full sun and prefer well-drained soil. Cosmos also bloom more when regularly cut, making them great for cut flower gardens[5].
Nasturtiums are fast-growing, insect-repelling flowers that tolerate poor soils and grow well in full sun. They are versatile and can be grown in beds, hanging baskets, or pots[2].
Morning Glory is a vining plant with trumpet-shaped flowers that come in many colors. It can cover trellises or fences, making it great for vertical gardening. Morning glories need support as they grow[2].
Salvia is a sun-loving, low-maintenance plant that produces long-lasting flower spikes with aromatic foliage. It is also pollinator-friendly and suits hot climates well[1].
Portulaca (Moss Rose) is a tough groundcover that thrives in full sun and dry conditions, offering bright, cup-shaped flowers. It is nearly indestructible in heat[1].
Pansies are especially good for cooler months like winter, as they are hardy and produce continuous blooms. They are one of the easiest flowers for beginners to start with[4].
For a beginner, starting with fast-growing annuals like zinnias, sunflowers, cosmos, and nasturtiums is often recommended because they require minimal care, germinate quickly, and provide vibrant blooms throughout the growing season. Including some perennials like salvia can add long-lasting color with low upkeep[1][2][3][5].
Other beginner-friendly plants include Marigolds, known for their hardiness, bright yellow and orange flowers, and pest-repelling properties. Californian Poppy is a hardy plant with bright orange blossoms that bloom in the spring and summer. It thrives even in nutrient-poor soil[1][2].
Nigella is an easy-to-grow annual with vivid blue blossoms and pretty pods, best planted in a spot that gets lots of sunshine[1]. Lilac is a deciduous shrub known for its pastel-colored blossoms, sweet fragrance, and heart-shaped leaves. It is drought-resistant and perfect for hot or dry climates[2].
Geraniums, with over 300 varieties, each with different growth requirements, are a popular perennial choice. They bloom from early to late spring and continue to produce flowers all summer long. Geraniums love the sun although they will thrive in shady environments too[1][2].
Snapdragons thrive in well-drained soil and should be watered regularly at the base of the plant. They yield bright, cheery flowers and attract a variety of garden-friendly insects, including bumblebees and butterflies. However, they do not do well in gardens exposed to intense heat[2].
Californian Poppy prefers well-drained (sandy or rocky) soils, full sun, and mild climates. It grows well in hilly landscapes, sandy plains, and sunny gardens[1].
Columbines are beautiful perennial plants with bell-shaped blossoms in array of colors, best grown from seed in a well-draining soil[1].
These plants typically need full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for most beginner gardens. Happy gardening!
[1] Gardening Know How (2021). Beginner's Guide to Flower Gardening. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/topics/flower-gardening-for-beginners.htm
[2] The Spruce (2021). Best Flowers for Beginners: Easy to Grow Annuals and Perennials. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/beginner-friendly-flowers-2142502
[3] Better Homes & Gardens (2021). The Best Annuals for Beginners. Retrieved from https://www.bhg.com/gardening/annuals/best-annuals-for-beginners/
[4] The Old Farmer's Almanac (2021). Best Flowers for Winter Gardening. Retrieved from https://www.almanac.com/gardening/best-flowers-winter-gardening
[5] HGTV (2021). 10 Easy-to-Grow Flowers for Beginners. Retrieved from https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoors/gardens/easy-to-grow-flowers-for-beginners
To enhance one's home-and-garden lifestyle, one may consider incorporating beginner-friendly flowers such as Zinnias, Sunflowers, Cosmos, and Nasturtiums, which are quick to grow, low maintenance, and provide vibrant colors for a beautiful garden. Additionally, including perennials like Salvia, for long-lasting color with minimal upkeep, can help in creating a welcoming and lively home-and-garden atmosphere.
