Cold Tolerant Flowers: Extend Your Growing Season
Introduction:
Imagine having your garden bursting with color even in the cold months. That’s the magic of cold tolerant flowers! These hardy plants can withstand chilly temperatures, allowing you to enjoy blooms from early spring to late fall, and even through the winter in some climates.
What are Cold Tolerant Flowers?
Cold tolerant flowers are simply those that can handle cooler temperatures without getting damaged by frost. Unlike tender annuals, which die when temperatures drop below freezing, frost hardy flowers can survive and continue to bloom.
Benefits of Cold Tolerant Flowers:
- Extend the growing season
- Add color to your garden year-round
- Attract pollinators
- Provide fragrance
- Some are edible
Popular Cold Tolerant Flowers:
Alyssum: Also known as sweet alyssum, this low-growing annual is incredibly cold tolerant. It blooms profusely during both hot and cold weather, making it a great choice for flower beds and containers.
Annual Phlox: Much like its perennial cousin, annual phlox produces a profusion of clustered flowers on shorter stems. It can be planted in both fall and spring for early blooms.
Bachelor’s Buttons: These cheerful plants consistently withstand freezing temperatures when planted in fall. In spring, they reward gardeners with masses of vibrant blooms.
Calendula: Also known as “pot marigold,” calendula is a frost hardy flower prized for its usefulness in both flower and herb gardens. Its bright, cheerful blooms range in color from white to deep orange-mahogany.
Forget-Me-Nots: Annual forget-me-nots are an early spring favorite. Masses of these tiny, bright blue flowers are a popular choice for borders and containers. Be aware that they may be invasive in some regions.
Pansies: Pansies have long been a favorite among frost hardy flowers. They come in a wide range of colors and often bloom in fall and throughout milder portions of winter.
Shirley Poppies: These delicate paper-like flowers are prized for their naturalized plantings and carefree design.
Snapdragons: When planted in late fall, spring snapdragons are among the first flowers to bloom in the garden. Their large, floriferous spikes attract pollinators and make stunning cut flower arrangements.
Scented Stock: Scented stock is a delightful addition to the garden. Fall-planted stock begins blooming as temperatures warm each spring, filling the air with its beautiful aroma.
Sweet Peas: Sweet pea flowers are among the most fragrant hardy annuals. When planted in fall, their large vines can reach impressive heights, making them a stunning garden accent or focal plant. Note that all parts of the sweet pea plant, including the seeds, are toxic.
Tips for Growing Cold Tolerant Flowers:
- Choose the right varieties for your climate.
- Plant in well-drained soil.
- Protect from harsh winds.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and insulate roots.
- Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Conclusion:
With their ability to withstand cold temperatures, cold tolerant flowers are a valuable addition to any garden. They extend the growing season, add color and fragrance, and attract pollinators. By choosing the right varieties and following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful blooms in your garden all year long.
