Perennial flowers, from seed?

Question

I want to plant a lot of flowers for next spring, and flowers that will be in bloom all summer/fall. I want to plant them now from seed, indoors.

What are some good choices for flower beds and such and will they be big and have nice blooms? When should I plant the seeds, so that they are like the ones you would buy in stores (full plant size)?

I'm in zone 5b...Ohio

Answer 1

To get flowers for the entire season, you have to plant flowers so that as one fades away ...another will follow. Like the instruments in an orchestra, each will play their part sothat your garden is always in bloom.

You can get a head start by planting Perennials outdoors. They're not always started from seeds.

Start with spring flowering bulbs: Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, etc.
Then Peonies & Daylilies, Iris
You can plant potted perennials now like Black-Eyed Susan, Coreopsis, Daisies, Asters, Mums
Even though the individual flowers themselves are small, the effect of them may be better than those that have a few big flowers.

If you want to plant perennial seeds indoors, don't do it too early:
Seeds may be started indoors 6- 8 weeks before the last frost.
http://www.sunriseseeds.com/Delphinium.0.html

However, seeds can be started outside anytime throughout the growing season, until 2 to 3 weeks before the ground freezes.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil enriched with compost. Cover lightly with soil and keep moist until seedlings are established. (Cover with mulch if planted outdoors.)
http://www.fernlea.com/perenn/pfacts.htm

Good luck! Hope this is helpful.

Answer 2

No need to start your seeds right now, February is soon enough. I have grown most of the plants in my yard from either seeds, cuttings or root division. With seeds I would suggest that you invest in a florescent growing light so your seedlings don’t get leggy reaching for the light. Also, right now is a great time to buy your transplanting pots, most stores have clearanced them to as much as 50% off.. I am adding a very nice link to help you in your selection. Good luck http://www.garden.org/plantguide/index.php?keyword=Perennials

Answer 3

i'm uncertain what you mean by bulk. in case you're interior the corporate, maximum seed businesses wholesale, yet there is in many situations a minimum order of various hundred money. that's one hell of lots of seed! If there's a backyard club on your section, you could look into turning out to be a member of and swapping seeds with contributors.