So, how do you know how much space you need to plant cut flowers?
Well.. you are going to have to ask yourself a couple of questions:
How much time do you have?
What are you growing for?
Why are you growing?
Where are you going to grow it?
I will tell you it’s possible to grow all kinds of cut flowers in a 4-foot by 8-foot space.
How much time do you have?
Growing flowers takes time, but it doesn’t have to be all-consuming. Like I said above, you can grow a lot of flowers in a small space. My cut flower garden kits have 72 ready-to-plant flowers and need approximately 36 to 48 square feet. Isn’t it exciting to find that out? It makes things feel so possible!
Gardening takes time. The great news is that you get to decide how much time you want to spend in your flower garden. Starting small, especially as a beginner, is ALWAYS a good idea.
What are you growing cut flowers for?
Are you growing for yourself? Are you growing for friends? A special event? For fun?
Knowing the answer to these questions can help you decide how much you want to grow and what kind of flowers you need.
I think everyone should grow cut flowers for themselves, and because I am positive you will have extra, giving them away is always part of the plan.
If you are growing for a special event, pick flowers that fit the color scheme. Research what cut flowers bloom when, and make sure you plant several rounds.
Why are you growing cut flowers?
The all-encompassing question, Why? Having a purpose for growing cut flowers will help you push through some of the garden tasks that can be less fun.
I grow cut flowers for my mental health, for my girls to enjoy, and because I love them! Do you have a passion for growing cut flowers, remembering that passion will help fuel you through garden season.
Where are you going to grow your cut flower garden?
You do not need a traditional garden to grow cut flowers. A few plants can be planted among bushes and shrubs around the house.
Plants need at least 8 hours of sun. Know your zone and your first and last frost dates ( google is your friend here). This is crucial for transplanting, so all your hard work will yield a bountiful harvest.
In your vegetable garden is another great option. Flowers and vegetables complement each other really well and help pollinate and keep bad insects away from your garden.
So now that we have determined the perfect size, your cut flower garden doesn't have to be big; it can be one of those bigger raised beds.
You can now ask yourself:
What can I put in there?
How can I enjoy it?
Where should I put it?
How do I protect it?
What do I need to do?
What can I put in my cut flower garden?
Cut Flowers, vegetables, or right in your landscape. You can grow your garden cottage garden style as well and mix perennials with your annual cut flowers. Cut flower bulbs like tulips and daffodils, but also lilies, allium, and dahlias are a fun option that will extend your flower season into the spring and the fall.
How can I enjoy my garden and the flowers?
This is an easy answer. Cut them and bring them inside.
I know some people struggle with cutting their flowers. They look so pretty in the garden. If you don’t cut them, they will stop blooming. Your perennials only have a short window and your annuals will go to seed and stop. Remember, this is a cutting garden, not your landscape. You can do it, you’ll love seeing the flowers inside on your table.
Where should I put my cut flower garden?
Sun, sun, sun… your flowers need at least six to eight hours of sun each day.
Drainage: do not plant your flowers in a swamp…. the end
How do I protect my cut flower garden?
Bugs, wind, critters, and more. Every garden faces its challenges.
There are several ways to handle bugs: 1. Don’t be a lazy gardener and relax. You might lose a few flowers to insects, but you should have plenty left. 2. Japanese Beetles: Pick them off daily into a cup of soapy water. They are sleepy in the morning, so this works well. 3. Make sure your plant is healthy and has good soil. Good soil equals healthy plants, which means less of a bug problem.
Wind: Netting works great for flowers like zinnias, cosmos, snapdragons, and sunflowers. However, one good thunderstorm has the potential to flatten your flowers, and that’s devastating. Trust me. Just put the net up.
Fencing for critters: My only critter problem is my dogs. They are terrible, and I need a fence. Rabbits, deer, and even squirrels can be a nuisance. I would do a quick search for good ways to deter them. Sometimes, you have to get a little creative!
Answering some of these simple questions can set you up for a successful growing year.
If you want more details on how to plan your garden, sign up HERE for my FREE planning guide:
Plan your BEST garden ever: 12 easy steps to success.
You’ll get a checklist, some questions, and more detailed info on when, how, and where to plant your garden.
