There are lots of splendid flowers that can sprout from seeds in a matter of 60 days or even less, which, compared to certain garden plants that take years to blossom, is pretty much instantaneous.
To the beginner, starting seeds can feel overwhelming and complicated. But, not to worry, it's simpler than it appears. The secret lies in following the instructions on the seed packet, as each plant's needs can vary drastically. Some seeds need sunlight to germinate and shouldn't be buried in soil, while others prefer darkness. Some like warmth, while others need a sharp cold snap.
The gist? Even with minimal knowledge, one can germinate seeds successfully, provided they're willing to read and comply with the instructions. And more excitingly, some of these seeds can blossom into recognisable flowers within a couple of months. If you're an eager or beginner gardener, the following six seeds are perfect for your trial with seed starting this season.
Zinnias
These are commonly available favourites. They bloom in a myriad of colours, are ideal for cut flowers, and their tiny sprouting leaves can appear in just five days under optimal conditions. Zinnias thrive in warm soil, and you can directly sow them in your garden after the last frost. Regular watering will ensure their growth, and you can expect them to bloom within two months of planting.
Calendula
Besides the classic orange, there have been some striking variations of calendula developed recently, including soft yellows and pinks. As a bonus, these flowers deter rabbits from turning your garden into their feast. Expect to see these blooms approximately eight weeks after planting.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtium flowers work as a great pest trap in the garden, luring aphids away from other delicate plants. This flowering vine is available in an array of colours including yellow, red, orange, and even multi-coloured patterns. They sprout quickly; you could see blossoms as early as 35 days post-germination. Consistent moisture is crucial from the moment they're planted.
Nigella
Embodying the quintessence of easy-to-grow cottage garden annuals, nigella plants are commonly utilised to enhance garden borders in the early summer. Additionally, they make for beautiful cut flowers to decorate your indoor spaces. Simply scatter the seeds in swathes across a border, and watch as the plants create an almost mystical visual effect. Their blooms seem to float amid the delicate, intricate foliage, rightfully earning them the charming epithet 'love-in-a-mist'. These plants offer both aesthetic value and easy cultivation, making them a delightful choice for your gardening endeavours.
Scabious
A delightful addition to garden borders, scabious are known for their continuous display of summer blooms. These can either be perennials, thriving for several years, or annuals with a shorter lifespan, wilting post-flowering. Their flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, enhancing the garden's ecosystem, and they also make excellent cut flowers for indoor decoration. The primary shades of scabious encompass white, lavender, and blue, but you also have the option of choosing from some unique burgundies and lemon-toned varieties. In essence, scabious offers a mix of longevity, aesthetic appeal, and ecological benefits, making it a well-rounded choice for your garden.
Cosmos
This striking plant will bloom in about seven weeks and continue to flower until the end of the growing season. Cosmos are resilient, flourish with minimal care, and are perfect for those seeking vibrant colours with minimal effort. Overwatering should be avoided as they prefer drier conditions, which means an occasional missed watering won't be problematic. Deadheading will produce even more flowers. Being a self-seeder, laziness in tidying up at the season's end could result in new growth next year.