Sign up for our newsletterIf you want quick bang for the buck in your garden this year, consider planting the following annuals that are easy to grow and can be started from seed indoors. Most germinate fast, and can be planted in seed trays or peat pots between six and eight weeks prior to the last spring frost (generally the last weekend in May in the West Island).
Zinnias
An old-fashioned standby, this annual is available in an array of colours and as single or double blooms.
When to start the seeds indoors: Six weeks before the last frost: April 11 this year.
Germination time: About a week and a half.
What they need: Full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. Give them compost and water them several times weekly.
Cosmos
We love the frothy foliage and non-stop blooms on these hardy flowering annuals, which are native to Mexico. They’re so easy to grow and they give beauty and joy all season long. There are many colours and varieties.
When to start the seeds indoors: Six weeks before the last frost (April 11).
Germination time: Between one and two weeks.
What they need: Full sun. Cosmos are not fussy about soil but the more TLC they get, the better they perform.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are great starter plants for children because they’re so easy to cultivate. Consider starting them indoors in flower pots that can be transferred directly to the patio or deck during the May planting weekend. They don’t really like being transplanted from seed trays. Many colours are available and their branching habits include creepers and bush shapes. Bonus: The leaves and flowers are edible and can be added to salads.
When to start the seeds indoors: Four to six weeks before the last frost (April 11 – 25).
Germination time: About 10 days.
What they need: Full sun and poor-quality soil.
Marigolds
There are so many varieties of marigold—and in a vast range of colours—we could fill an entire garden with them.
When to start the seeds indoors: Six to eight weeks before the last frost (March 28 – April 11).
Germination time: Between five and 10 days.
What they need: Full sun and well-drained, fertile soil.
Morning Glories
Soak these seeds in water for 24 hours to get the hard outer shells to pop open before you plant them in peat pots. These lovely vines, whose blooms open in the morning, are climbers that need support, ideally on trellises or fences.
When to start the seeds indoors: Six to eight weeks before the last frost (March 28 – April 11).
Germination time: Between one and two weeks.
What they need: Full sun and well-drained, moist soil.
