Buying Seeds to Grow Flowers

By Rupert Foxton-Smythe

seeds

Discover the power of seed packets in gardening, providing a diverse range of options for raising stunning annuals and biennials. Keep reading to learn more!

TL;DR

The seed packet is a standard method for raising annuals and biennials, offering a wider range of varieties than buying bedding plants.

  • Seed Strips and Seed Mats have failed to become popular.
  • Starter Kits are widely available at seed sowing time.
  • Plastic trays filled with Seed Compost are pre-sown.

The seed packet is one of the cornerstones of gardening and is the standard method for raising annuals and biennials. You can obtain a much wider range of varieties from seed than is possible if you rely on buying bedding plants. Some perennials can be readily raised from seed. Look for types marked F1 hybrid – this means that the variety has been carefully bred to have more vigour and produce more attractive blooms than the standard types. Expensive, but usually worth the extra cost.

Seed Strips and Seed Mats have failed to become popular, but Starter Kits are widely available at seed-sowing time. Plastic trays have been filled with Seed Compost and are pre-sown – the transparent lid is used to provide cover during the pre-germination stage. Useful if you are short of time, but the range of plants offered is limited, and the cost is understandably higher than starting from scratch.

Trays

Good signs

Compact, sturdy stems. Even plant growth

Bad signs

Plants in full flower

Lanky stems

Blemished, yellow or diseased leaves

Roots growing through the base

Bedding annuals and biennials are sold in wooden or plastic trays (’flats’). Buy from a supplier with a good reputation or one who has pleased you in previous years-you are bound to be disappointed if the seedlings have not been properly hardened off. Never buy half hardy annuals before the recommended planting time. If you can, buy a whole box and not just a few plants wrapped in newspaper.

The seed packet is one of the corner-stones of gardening and is the standard method for raising annuals and biennials.

More Information on Buying Seeds to grow flowers

The seed packet is indeed a fundamental element in gardening, providing a reliable and diverse range of options for raising annuals and biennials. Unlike relying solely on buying bedding plants, using seeds allows for a much wider selection of varieties to choose from. Additionally, certain perennials can also be easily grown from seeds, expanding the possibilities even further. While seed strips and seed mats have not gained much popularity, starter kits are widely available during seed sowing time. These kits are convenient for those with limited time, as they come with pre-sown seeds in plastic trays, covered with a transparent lid to facilitate the pre-germination stage. However, it's important to note that the range of plant options offered in these kits might be limited, and the cost is typically higher compared to starting from scratch. When purchasing bedding annuals and biennials, it is advisable to buy them from a reputable supplier or one who has previously met your expectations. Ensuring that the seedlings have been properly hardened off is crucial to avoid disappointment. It is also recommended to adhere to the recommended planting time for half-hardy annuals, and if possible, consider buying a whole box of plants instead of just a few individually wrapped in newspaper. By opting for seeds and exploring different growing methods, gardeners have the opportunity to experiment with unique and diverse plant varieties, enabling them to create more vibrant and personalized gardens.

Tagged

Climbing PlantsFlowering PlantsGarden BoundariesPlant CarePlant Propagation

About the author

Rupert Foxton-Smythe

Rupert Foxton-Smythe is a seasoned horticulturist and avid plant enthusiast with over three decades of experience in the field of botany. As a leading expert at Houseplant Guru, Rupert brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for all things green.

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