It wasn't that long ago that I stumbled upon Cool Flowers (Hardy Annuals).
Or also called Cool Flowers - translated in German as Robust Annuals.
A "concept" that is little known in this country, although nature shows it to us every year.
And for me, once again, wonderful proof that you never stop learning in the garden.
 
You can find the video for the Cool Flowers HERE .
"Potomac Lavender" - you can get the snapdragon with the beautiful color HERE .
 
And the best thing about them? NOW, when your fingers are itching the most to start growing, when you are longingly slinking around perennial catalogs, seed packets and egg cartons because it is simply too cold to start, THEN is the right time to sow Cool Flowers (at least indoors).
 
Who are you, Hardy Annuals?
Hardy annuals are annuals that not only survive the cold, but actually love it. The plants can be planted in autumn or early spring (depending on the region). Depending on the variety, they are not affected by frost; in fact, the cold hardens them. This allows them to develop a strong root system and thus to flower much earlier than their later-planted counterparts.
 
Cornflower "Classic Fantastic" , just click here if you want it in your garden this year.
 
The concept of hardy annuals is particularly popular in England. This may be because winters on the island are somewhat milder than in our latitudes. And as a result, you don't have to worry so much about little baby plants braving frosty temperatures (and they do!).
 
The term "Cool Flowers" was probably coined most by the American cut flower farmer Lisa Mason Ziegler, who has been deeply involved in this topic for years.
 
Cool Flowers are hardy annuals that are planted in autumn or early spring (in very cold regions) and overwinter as small plants outside in the beds until they start growing with full force in spring.
 
 
A flowering wonder. The variegated sage . Blooms forever, sometimes well into December.
 
And they can really handle that?
Yes, they really can withstand it. When cornflowers, snapdragons, etc. self-seed, the seeds naturally fall on fertile soil in late summer. And when these seeds start to germinate, the young shoots must be able to withstand cold and frost.
 
The wonderful Orlaya Grandiflora - the radiant broadleaf, native but almost impossible to find in the wild (Red List!). Do something to preserve biodiversity and get it HERE .
 
 
How to sow Cool Flowers correctly
 
Sowing in late summer or late winter (just try both and PLEASE tell me about your experiences):
 
As a general rule, the following can be stated:
  • Hardy annuals can be planted 6 to 8 weeks BEFORE the FIRST frost or 6 - 8 weeks BEFORE the LAST frost .
  • Accordingly, they can be sown about 6 weeks IN ADVANCE.
  • Sow directly outdoors for autumn planting (but also indoors if it is very hot in summer).
  • When sowing for spring planting, I recommend starting indoors (especially in early spring) (except for varieties that should go outside straight away, see below).
I love this time of year when it's still too uncomfortable to garden outside, but the longing is so great that you can at least start in the warmth. (Most) seeds simply germinate faster because they need a little warmth to do so.
 
 
Yarrow Summer Berries
 
There are some varieties that are completely frost hardy, such as cornflowers, yarrow and Iceland poppies. Others need a little protection in harsh winters, preferably with fleece. These include snapdragons, stocks, rayed broadleaf and sweet peas.
 
You can use egg cartons, small pots, swelling tablets, toilet paper rolls, drilled cans or whatever as containers. Potting soil is recommended as it is low in nutrients and sterile. Ideally, you should place the pots on a heating mat, which ensures the right germination temperature and prevents excessive humidity and thus fungal infestation. But it will work without it too, but the germination rate may not be quite as high (you will need to ensure good ventilation). I don't use any because I don't have one and it's warm enough inside.
 
I think a grow light is almost more important (especially if you start very early). I bought a few a few years ago and have had better and healthier sprouts since then.
Indoors, they should get 16 hours of light. But even here, if necessary, you can do without. A bright spot on the windowsill would be important. And to prevent your little ones from stretching too far towards the window, place them in a box, cut off the side facing the window and stick aluminum foil on the other side. This will reflect the light.
 
Field delphinium “Fancy Belladonna” - a wonderful source of food for beneficial insects.
 
When your plants are about 10 - 15 cm tall, they can be put outside. Please harden them off slowly and let them get used to the new ambient temperature, sun and wind for a few days. An open garage or a garden shed are ideal for this.
 
And protect them with fleece for the first two weeks until they have taken root.
 
 
These are among the robust annuals:
 
Click on the pictures for more information.
 
And if you want to sow sweet peas, you can find all the information HERE .
 
These flowers should be sown directly outside:
cornflower mix
 
Many of these flowers are in the SHOP available. If your desired flower is sold out, just register for your desired flower - I can get most of them delivered later.
 
AND: I am curious to hear your experiences. I look forward to receiving your emails (blumenglueck@mycottagegarden.de) !
And finally, one of my most beautiful and favorites: The ornamental carrot "Purple Kisses"
 
If you want to read more on this topic, I recommend the book "Cool Flowers" by Lisa Mason Ziegler (unfortunately not yet translated). That was also my basis for this post.
 
All photos except "Fancy Belladonna": Janina Laszlo
"Fancy Belladonna": Mr. Fothergills