Embracing Autumn: A Guide to Autumn Seed Sowing
Embracing the Fall: A Guide to Autumn Seed Sowing
We are still enjoying high midday temperatures and warm balmy evenings at the moment. However here at Blooming Flower farm we are busy planning and organising our Autumn jobs. This includes Autumn seed sowing. As summer starts to cool and the crisp air of autumn sets in, we turn our attention to the beauty and bounty that this transitional season brings. While many may associate spring with the ritual of sowing seeds, autumn offers its own unique opportunities for seed sowing and planting. Join us as we explore the benefits of autumn seed sowing, unlocking the secrets to a thriving garden even as the days grow shorter and the temperatures cooler.
The Benefits of Autumn Sowing:
Autumn seed sowing holds several advantages that make it a worthwhile endeavor for gardeners of all levels:
Establishment Before Winter: By sowing seeds in autumn, plants have the opportunity to establish their root systems before the harsh conditions of winter set in. This early start provides them with a head start come spring, resulting in stronger, healthier growth.
Cooler Temperatures: Autumn's cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for seed germination, as they help prevent seeds from drying out or succumbing to heat stress. Additionally, cooler weather reduces the risk of pests and diseases that may be more prevalent in the warmer months.
Extended Growing Season and spreading the workload: By sowing seeds in autumn, we can extend the growing season and enjoy blooms and harvests early winter. We can sow up to 70% of our hardy annuals, perennials and biennials in Autumn. This siginificantly helps to spread the workload out over the growing season. We know this too well here at blooming Flower Farm. Last season our season was cut short after Cyclone Gabriel. The damage included losing our bore and we weren’t able to get water until after winter. This put a stop to any autumn seed sowing. In turn we had to work extra hard throughout spring to grow enough to keep up with demands.
Selecting Seeds for Autumn Sowing:
When choosing seeds for autumn sowing, consider the following factors:
Hardy Annuals: Opt for seeds of plants that are cold-hardy and can withstand frost, such as stock, bells of ireland, snapdragons, larkspur, cornflower, nigella, aggrostema, matricaria, scabiosa, strawflowers, ammi, campanula, statice and dianthus
Perennials and Biennials: Autumn is an excellent time to sow seeds of perennial flowers and biennials, as they have ample time to establish themselves before the following spring. Consider planting seeds of flowers like echinacea, achillea, foxglove, billy buttons and rudbeckia.
Tips for Successful Autumn Sowing:
To ensure success with autumn seed sowing, keep the following tips in mind:
Prepare the Soil: Before sowing seeds, prepare the soil by removing weeds, loosening compacted areas, and adding organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and fertility.
Provide Adequate Water: While autumn typically brings more rainfall, be sure to monitor soil moisture levels and provide supplemental water as needed, especially during dry spells.
Protect from Frost: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared to protect newly sown seeds from frost if temperatures drop below freezing. Covering seedbeds with frost cloth can help prevent frost damage.
Mulch for Insulation: Apply a layer of mulch around newly sown seeds to help insulate the soil, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature fluctuations.
In Conclusion:
Autumn seed sowing offers a wealth of benefits and opportunities for flower growers looking to extend their growing season and cultivate beauty into the cooler months. By selecting the right seeds, preparing the soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy vibrant blooms from Autumn seed sowing that will brighten your garden and lift your spirits throughout the autumn season, early winter thorough to summer. So, embrace the fall and let the magic of autumn seed sowing transform your garden into a thriving oasis of color and life.