15 Flowering Perennials to Start Seeding in March for Vibrant Blooms

15 Flowering Perennials to Start Seeding in March

March marks a pivotal point in the gardening year for many regions, offering an ideal window to start flowering perennials from seed. These plants not only bring color and life to gardens from late spring through fall—they also return year after year, building a resilient and low-maintenance landscape. Below, explore 15 of the best perennial flowers to sow in March, complete with planting tips, care guidance, and key facts for each.

Table of Contents

• Bellflower (Campanula spp.)
• Hollyhock (Alcea rosea)
• Delphinium (Delphinium spp.)
• Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
• Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)
• Lupine (Lupinus spp.)
• Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
• Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
• Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)
• Aster (Aster spp.)
• Heliopsis (Heliopsis helianthoides)
• Iris (Iris spp.)
• Gaillardia (Gaillardia x grandiflora)
• Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia hirta)

Bellflower (Campanula spp.)

Bellflowers offer eye-catching purple, blue, or white bell-shaped blooms. These soft, cascading plants thrive as groundcovers or spilling over stone walls. Set seeds into moist soil in spring, gently pressing them without burying, as light is needed for germination. You can expect seedlings in about two weeks. Once established, they will bloom from summer well into fall.

• Do not cover seeds—requires exposure to light.
• Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Excellent for landscaping edges, rock gardens, and borders.

Hollyhock (Alcea rosea)

Hollyhocks reign in cottage gardens, showcasing towering stalks loaded with vibrant flowers. Though considered short-lived perennials (2-3 years), strategic deadheading extends their blooming and lifespan. Sow seeds directly post-frost, or start indoors for earlier blooms.

• Tall habit ideal for rear borders or fence lines.
• Colors range from classic pinks and reds to deep purples and pure white.
• Requires staking in windy spots.

Delphinium (Delphinium spp.)

Famous for their dramatic spires of blue, purple, and white, Delphiniums lift herbaceous borders to new heights. Well-suited to cool climates, they appreciate rich soil and regular moisture. Seeds need stratification—either a stint in the refrigerator or sowing outdoors in late March can mimic natural cold cycles.

• Stake flower stalks to prevent flopping.
• Feed with balanced fertilizer during growth.
• Protect from slug and snail damage.

Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)

With bright yellow daisy-like flowers, Coreopsis delivers cheerful color and thrives under tough conditions. These drought-tolerant perennials are ideal for pollinator-friendly gardens. Sow seeds on well-drained soil and keep lightly moist until seedlings emerge.

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• Excellent choice for beginners.
• Deadheading extends the blooming season.
• Attracts bees and butterflies.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea, or coneflower, is prized for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. Their purple-pink petals attract many pollinators and tolerate poor soils. Start in March, either indoors for transplanting or directly in beds once frost passes.

• Deadhead for continuous blooms.
• Resistant to deer and rabbits.
• Long-lasting cut flowers.

Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)

Shasta Daisies feature classic white petals with sunny yellow centers. They make a lively addition to any perennial bed and produce prolific blooms from early summer. Sow seeds shallow—these require light to germinate—and thin after germination for robust plants.

• Low maintenance and long-lived.
• Divide clumps every 2–3 years for vigor.
• Great cut flower for cheerful arrangements.

Lupine (Lupinus spp.)

Distinctive with their tall spikes and pea-like flowers in almost every hue, Lupines prefer cool roots and well-drained soil. Scarifying the seeds (lightly nicking the outer coat) accelerates germination. Plant in clumps for maximum visual impact.

• Fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants.
• Great for pollinator and wildlife gardens.
• Protect from snails at the seedling stage.

Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)

Penstemons have tubular flowers in every color from pinks to purples and even fiery reds, attracting hummingbirds. Sow in March on moistened, well-draining soil and keep covered with a thin layer of compost.

• Thrives in rocky or sandy soils.
• Resistant to drought once established.
• Mix several varieties for a spectrum of blooms.

Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Phlox offers dense clusters of fragrant blooms from midsummer onwards. Ideal for borders and pollinator gardens, these seeds need moist soil and benefit from regular deadheading. Thin seedlings early for best airflow and minimal mildew.

• Available in pink, white, lavender, and red.
• Great for butterflies and other pollinators.
• Responds well to compost-rich soil.

Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)

Spiky Salvia flowers lure bees, butterflies, and add depth to perennial beds. Sow seeds in March under protection (indoors or cold frame) and transplant once frosts have passed. Salvias are tolerant of drought and require little care beyond deadheading.

• Long blooming, from late spring onward.
• Mixes beautifully with roses and grasses.
• Deer and rabbit resistant.

Aster (Aster spp.)

Asters are fall bloomers, extending garden color late into the year. Sow seeds indoors in March, then transplant out after frost. Their daisy-like flowers are irresistible to bees and butterflies.

• Great for pollinator conservation.
• Colors include blue, pink, purple, and white.
• Attractive in wildflower meadows and beds.

Heliopsis (Heliopsis helianthoides)

Heliopsis, or false sunflower, produces cheerful, golden flowers on sturdy stems from midsummer onwards. Seeds can be sown outdoors once frost risk subsides, or start indoors in March.

• Withstands summer heat and humidity.
• Excellent for large borders or naturalized plantings.
• Loved by pollinators.

Iris (Iris spp.)

Iris varieties bloom in early spring through summer, with intricate flowers in whites, blues, yellows, and purples. While most are grown from rhizomes, certain species (such as Siberian Iris) can be started from seed in March.

• Needs well-drained soil, especially at root level.
• Divide roots every few years for renewal.
• Excellent as specimen plants or massed in beds.

Gaillardia (Gaillardia x grandiflora)

Known as blanket flower, Gaillardia is a drought-tolerant perennial featuring striking red and gold petal combinations. Direct sow in March or start seeds indoors for strong starts. They thrive on neglect and poor soils.

• Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and songbirds.
• Long blooming period (early summer through fall).
• Deer and rabbit resistant.

Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia hirta)

Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) are robust, sun-loving perennials with bright yellow petals and dark centers. Seed in March either indoors or directly in prepared beds.

• Deadhead for more blooms and tidy appearance.
• Great for meadow gardens and borders.
• Withstands summer drought and heat.

General March Seeding Tips for Flowering Perennials

Maximize perennial success with these practical steps:

• Timing: Start seeds when night temperatures are steadily above freezing or use cold frames indoors for early germination.
• Soil Preparation: Use a loose, well-draining seed mix. Amend with compost if starting directly outdoors.
• Light: Many perennial seeds need light—refer to packet instructions or avoid deep sowing.
• Moisture: Maintain consistent moisture, avoiding soggy conditions which can cause rot.
• Labeling: Clearly mark trays or beds to avoid confusion as seedlings emerge.
• Transplanting: Harden off indoor-started seedlings gradually before moving outside.

Benefits of Growing Perennials from Seed

• Cost Savings: Seeds are more economical and enable large-scale plantings.
• Diversity: Wide range of unusual or heirloom varieties not found in local nurseries.
• Longevity: Many perennials last for years, reducing annual planting chores.
• Pollinator Support: Perennials provide habitat and food for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial wildlife.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

• Slow Germination: Some perennials require weeks or months to sprout. Persevere and keep soil moist.
• Weed Competition: Mulch lightly after seedlings establish.
• Transplant Shock: Harden seedlings and transplant on cool, cloudy days.
• Pest Pressure: Use netting or organic repellents for seedlings at risk from wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is a perennial?

A: Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, returning each spring from their root system rather than needing to be replanted from seed.

Q: Can I seed perennials indoors in March?

A: Yes. Many perennial seeds can be started indoors in trays or pots in March. Transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and seedlings are well-established.

Q: How long do perennials take to bloom from seed?

A: Some, such as coreopsis or shasta daisy, may bloom in their first season if started early. Others like hollyhocks or iris may flower in their second year as the plant matures.

Q: Do these perennials attract pollinators?

A: Yes. Most March-seeded perennials are excellent for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Q: How do I improve germination rates?

A: Use a sterile seed mix, keep soil evenly moist, and be patient—some perennial seeds have specific cold or light requirements. Always check the specific recommendations for each plant.

Summary Table: 15 Perennials for March Seeding

Closing Thoughts: Plan Your March Perennial Garden

March is a transformative time for gardeners. Taking advantage of seed starting this month sets the stage for a stunning, pollinator-rich, long-lived display through spring, summer, and even fall. By selecting multiple varieties from the list above, you ensure continual color, diverse textures, and resilient returns year after year. Happy planting!

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Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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