As spring fades to summer, we receive quite a few inquiries from people who are curious about the viability of late spring plantings.

Depending on variable weather patterns, we plant most of our spring production fields between March and May. However, we have continued to plant test plots into June and July. One of the biggest factors you need to consider is your water availability. You want to maintain moisture in the ground soil. It should appear damp throughout the mornings and evenings as the new seeds establish. Ideal growing temperatures for most wildflowers are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures ranging  above 90 degrees can reduce germination rates. If your summer weather is still fairly mild, and you can keep the ground moist while the plants establish, you may be able to generate a healthy stand of flowers.

Perennials can do especially well with careful attention. An early summer planting with plenty of water can generate a substantial amount of plant growth before the colder seasons set in. Because perennials won’t bloom their first year, this is one way to insure against adversarial fall planting weather. Perennials that head into winter with good vegetative growth are much more likely to thrive through the harsh conditions.

If you are a late planter and are interested in purchasing seed, we encourage you to visit our website: www.silverfallsseed.com. There, you will find hundreds of different species that we have produced on our farm in the Willamette Valley. Use the cupon code: LATEPLANT to receive a 10% discount on your order.

We look forward to helping you, and are happy to answer any questions you might have.