Fall Planted Perennial Seedlings
Hello! I hope you're well today. I want to share some valuable information about the perennial plants that we grow from seed. Many of them are started in the summertime, grown into seedlings, and planted out when the days get shorter and the weather cools. This process allows them to receive a quick vernalization in the winter, giving them the cold temperatures they need to bloom the following season.
Starting Perennial Seeds
We often start perennial seeds in the spring, but we also start them in the summertime. For example, these are some Robinson's Mix daisy seedlings we began growing. Robinson’s Mix includes yellow, dark pink, and light pink blooms – beautiful cut flowers perfect for our climate. Wild daisies thrive here, and so do these daisies.
Germination Techniques
We start them in row trays, often inside under lights during the summer because the outdoor temperatures can be too intense for the greenhouse. Inside, we have greater control over heat and sunlight, preventing the delicate plants from drying out.
This summer, we started various plants: painted daisies, perennial grasses, oriental poppies (for a flashy roadside display), purple sea lavender (similar to German status but with a pink-purple variety), Jupiter's beard, butterfly weed, and different kinds of columbine. Columbine, in particular, has been thriving for us, so we diversified with many colors and types.
For columbine seeds, we use a cold stratification method – placing them between damp paper towels in a Ziploc bag in the refrigerator for about three weeks before transferring them to row trays in the basement. This process brings really good germination results. We nurture these seedlings thoroughly, ensuring they don’t dry out and repotting them as needed.
Planting and Maintenance
If you live in a warmer climate, you might be able to start some perennial seeds now and get them into the ground for winter vernalization. If frost or freezing temperatures are a concern, seedlings can be planted in a nursery bed in an unheated tunnel. Our tunnels have remained mostly unfrozen in recent winters, thanks to daytime warmth, providing a protected environment for young plants.
Our nursery tunnels are quite versatile. Take, for instance, the 'messy' patch at the end, which houses flowering kale and perennials like painted daisies and sea holly. Once established, sea holly resows itself and can be moved to dedicated beds.
Financial and Horticultural Benefits
Growing perennials from seed is not only economical but also requires minimal effort, provided you have patience for the plants to bloom. On our farm, we start a variety of perennials this way, including lupine, heliopsis, globe thistle, Echinacea, Minarda, Penstemon, and more. If it doesn't take seven to ten years to flower, we probably start it from seed.
Conclusion
I hope you've found this guide useful. Feel free to reach out with any questions. If you’re embarking on this gardening journey, may your perennials flourish beautifully. Have a great day and a fantastic week ahead!
Looking for seeds?
Our favorite perennial seed sources are:
Take care, and happy planting!