Patience is a virtue in gardening, but it's not always easy to wait for blooms. Fast-growing flowers can transform your garden into a vibrant paradise in no time. With the right varieties, you can enjoy dazzling floral displays and attract pollinators to your yard within just a few weeks. Here are five fast-growing flowers you should consider!
1. Marigolds: Colorful and Beginner-Friendly
Marigolds are ideal for beginners, thriving in just eight weeks. These hardy annuals are adorned in bright yellows and oranges, instantly brightening any garden space. They not only bring warmth to your flower beds but also attract bees and butterflies, creating a lively atmosphere. Paul Parker, CEO of J. Parker's, notes, "Some types of Marigolds will self-seed, meaning they will return without your extra effort. Regular deadheading throughout summer encourages continuous blooms."
Plant them in pots, garden beds, or borders, and watch your garden come alive. With minimal effort and care, you can cultivate a colorful oasis that keeps giving throughout the growing season.
2. Nigella: The Elegance of 'Love-in-a-Mist'
Known for its delicate light blue petals and lacy foliage, Nigella, or 'love-in-a-mist', thrives in cool spring weather and blooms beautifully in early summer. Recommended by the Royal Horticultural Society, these flowers excel in self-seeding, making them an effortless addition to your garden.
The experts suggest scattering Nigella seeds in drifts for a charming, natural aesthetic. They recommend starting to sow directly from March onwards to establish a stunning and effortless cottage garden look. Once planted, Nigella takes care of itself, adding visual interest with minimal maintenance.
3. Snapdragons: Bold and Vibrant
If you're in search of colors that pop, Snapdragons are a perfect choice. These flowers can give you stunning results in as little as eight weeks. A personal favorite for many gardeners, Mike suggests using garden-ready plugs that can be directly planted into containers or garden beds.
"Snapdragons grow tall and vibrant. Regular deadheading will keep them flowering, and they appreciate consistent watering. If you're using pots, opt for a balanced peat-free compost to ensure they thrive throughout the season," advises Mike.
From whites and yellows to pinks, reds, and purples, the range of colors will surely add an engaging element to your landscape. For those wanting quick blooms, Snapdragons are hard to beat.
4. Cornflowers: A Cottage Garden Favorite
Beloved for their striking blue petals, Cornflowers (also known as bachelor's buttons) thrive in various weather conditions, making them resilient and adaptable. These wildflowers can be planted in early spring and will reward you with blooms within about 10 weeks.
Cornflowers are renowned for attracting bees and other pollinators, enhancing your garden's ecosystem. They are easy to grow and can be sown directly outdoors or started indoors a few weeks prior to May. "Press the seeds firmly into the soil for optimal germination, as they prefer a bit of darkness," emphasizes Paul. This low-maintenance option is ideal for gardeners wanting a stress-free blooming experience.
5. Nasturtiums: Powerful and Edible
Adding another layer of beauty to your garden, Nasturtiums are climbing plants that offer both aesthetic and practical benefits. In just six weeks, these flowers bloom with vibrant orange and yellow colors. They are often interplanted with vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes due to their natural pest-repellent qualities.
Not only do they provide color, but Nasturtiums are also edible, packed with vitamin C, making them a nutritious addition to your garden. Their versatility and beauty make them a highly valuable flower for any gardener looking to combine functionality with beauty.
Growing Fast-Growing Flowers
Starting your own flower garden with these fast-growing flowers allows for quick results, even for beginners. They self-seed, require minimal maintenance, and can thrive in diverse garden settings, making them the perfect choice for various gardening styles.
For those ready to enhance their outdoor spaces, consider including Marigolds, Nigella, Snapdragons, Cornflowers, and Nasturtiums in your planting this season. With just a little effort, you’ll create a stunning and colorful environment that brings joy and beauty to your home. So roll up your sleeves and get started with these low maintenance flowers that will genuinely transform your garden into a floral wonderland!