Timing is a crucial part of growing a plant from seed.

Although most wildflowers can be planted in the spring there are many that must be planted in the fall in order to experience a phenomenon called cold stratification.

Some seeds require a period of wet and cold before they will sprout. This is a technique that some plants have developed to keep them from sprouting in the fall, only to be frozen by the winter cold.

You can try an simulate these “real-world” condition by mixing the seeds in wet soil in a plastic bag or container and keeping them in the fridge for a month or so. You can then transplant them directly in the area or pot(s) where you want them to grow.

What is a seed?

Seeds contain all the potential required to create a new plant. They are accompanied with a food source for the sprouting plant as well as often being coated in a hard layer designed to protect the seed.

Seeds to plant in the fall:

• Great Camas

• Common Camas

• California Oatgrass

• Nodding Onion

• Red Columbine

• Broad-leaved Shootingstar

Seeds you can plant in the spring:

• Entire -leaved Gumweed

• Yarrow

• Pearly Everlasting

• Woolly Sunflower

• Coastal Mugwort

• Sea Blush

• Farewell-to-Sprint

• Miner’s Lettuce

• Spring Gold

Don’t see the seed you are looking for here? It is always safest to plant your plants in the late fall if you aren’t sure if they need cold stratification. If you want to ask about a specific plant please send us an email and we would be happy to help you out!