Fall is the perfect time to plant wildflower seeds if you want a vibrant yard of bluebonnets, sunflowers, coreopsis, and other Texas favorites next spring.
Michael Arnold, Ph.D., director of The Gardens at Texas A&M University and professor of landscape horticulture in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Horticultural Sciences, says planting wildflowers requires patience.
“You won’t see immediate results, but planting in September, October, or early November gives the flowers time to establish before winter,” Arnold said. He adds that northern Texas gardeners should plant earlier in the season.
To enjoy blooms from spring through midsummer, Arnold suggests mixing annuals and perennials. Annuals flower the first year, while perennials strengthen over time, ensuring lasting color. Early spring blooms like bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes can be followed by coreopsis, Mexican hat, and sunflowers for a continuous display.
Choosing the right spot is key. Wildflowers thrive in full sun with well-draining soil, ideally along garden edges or naturalized areas. Avoid mowing too soon so seeds can replenish for future years.
Proper soil prep and seeding matter. Loosen soil, scatter seeds evenly, and gently press them in without fully burying them. Newly planted seeds should be watered to keep soil moist until seedlings take root, though most Texas wildflowers need little care after establishing.
With some planning this fall, gardeners can enjoy a colorful, low-maintenance wildflower display for years to come.