Things are already busy in the seed starting department here. I’ve got babies going in all shapes and sizes- all of the ingredients for our bouquets this spring and summer. I wish I could grow enough for everyone that wants one but it’s just not possible. I can, however, help you to grow your own! Read on for my basic guide to growing for your own vase (or mason jar) this year.

To make a great bouquet for your table you will need: focal flowers, greenery, and texture.

The varieties I’ve chosen to include here will be relatively easy and fuss free in most zones. These seeds, for the most part should not be planted outside until after all danger of frost has passed. Here in West Texas, that’s April 15, or as most old-timers will tell you, after Easter.  Just because your local box store has something set out does not mean that it will work in your climate or that it’s time to plant it.

There are lots of other flowers here on the farm but if I was growing a small cutting garden there are my must-haves.

Focal Flowers- Zinnia, Sunflowers, Cosmos

The focal flowers are the stars of the show. In our bouquets, we may  have 5-10 stems of these. For us they include:

Zinnia- there are so many varieties but I like Benary’s Giant, Oklahoma series and even the Cactus.

Sunflowers- Be sure to source a pollen free variety if they are for cutting. (I like pro cuts)

Cosmos- These are dainty and delicate. They are cut and come again. I shoot for double varieties.

Greenery or Filler- Herbs & Branches

This part might sound boring but your choices here can add some much interest. We love to use:

Basil (lemon and cinnamon)

Dill

Use whatever perennials and even tree branches you have laying around and don’t be afraid to try something different. We often use asparagus greens and people love them!

Texture- Something interesting 

Texture is sometimes the same thing as filler. These flowers add interest to your vase.

Ammi

Queen Anne’s Lace

Gomphrena – these will bloom throughout the summer. I love the basic purple but have also tried the red and bright pink varieties. We love them all. They add so much fun to a vase and last forever!

These can all be started indoors and moved out but I'd highly recommend waiting until the second week of April and just spreading them around in the soil. 

Keep them nice and moist until you start seeing green and then water regularly. 

I can't wait to see what you do! 

Happy Growing!