June is a magical month in the gardening calendar. With the arrival of warmer weather and longer days, it’s the ideal time to roll up your sleeves and start planting an array of vibrant flower seeds that will flourish in the sunshine.
Whether you’re looking to attract pollinators, create a colorful border, or fill your garden with fragrant blooms, there’s a variety of seeds to choose from. Let’s dig into some fantastic flower seeds that can be sown in June, ensuring your garden blossoms with life throughout the summer.
Amaranthus
Amaranthus, often known as “Love-Lies-Bleeding,” is a fascinating plant with deep roots in both history and horticulture. Not only is it visually striking with its long, drooping flower clusters, but it also boasts a charming range of colors, from vibrant reds to purples and greens. These annuals are not only beautiful; they are also drought-tolerant and hardy, making them perfect for summer gardens.
Sowing seeds in June allows the plants to take advantage of the warm soil, promoting rapid germination and growth. Amaranth seeds should be sown directly into your garden bed, spaced about a foot apart, as they can grow quite tall and bushy. With a little sunlight and well-drained soil, you’ll have a robust display of flowers that will attract bees and butterflies while providing striking visuals throughout the summer months.
Cleome
Cleome, or spider flower, is a unique addition to any garden. This tall and statuesque annual is beloved for its spiky blooms and delightful fragrance. Blooming in shades of pink, white, and purple, Cleome not only offers aesthetic appeal, but its nectar-rich flowers also attract pollinators, making it a gardener’s best friend.
Sowing Cleome seeds in June is ideal, as they will thrive in the warm summer weather. These plants prefer full sun and can tolerate drought conditions once established. Space your seeds about 1-2 feet apart to allow for their expansive growth. With a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with clusters of beautiful flowers swaying gently in the summer breeze.
Cobaea scandens (cup-and-saucer vine)
For those looking to add some vertical interest to their garden, Cobaea scandens, commonly known as the cup-and-saucer vine, is an excellent option. This vigorous climber can reach impressive heights, making it perfect for trellises, fences, or arbors. The plant’s exquisite, cup-shaped blooms create a whimsical allure, with colors ranging from lavender to deep purple.
Sowing these seeds in June ensures that the vines have enough time to establish themselves and produce flowers before the cooler weather sets in. It’s best to start the seeds indoors for a few weeks before transplanting them outdoors, though they can also be sown directly into the ground in well-drained soil. Just make sure to provide plenty of support for the climbing stems, and enjoy a romantic display of blooms cascading down your garden structure.
Cosmos
Cosmos are a gardener’s delight, known for their ease of growth and stunning flower displays. With their feathery foliage and daisy-like blooms, they add a light, airy feel to any border or garden bed. Cosmos are available in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and even deep crimson, making them a versatile choice for creating colorful floral arrangements or bed displays.
June is an excellent time to sow Cosmos seeds directly into the soil. These plants adore full sun and well-draining soil, and they are relatively drought-tolerant once established. Space the seeds about 12 inches apart to allow for their natural bushy growth. Not only do Cosmos brighten up the garden, but they also serve as excellent cut flowers, providing lasting beauty indoors as well.
Cornflowers
Cornflowers, or Centaurea cyanus, are cherished for their vivid blue blooms and sturdy structure. These charming annuals have a nostalgic quality, often reminding gardeners of traditional country gardens. Cornflowers stand out against green foliage, creating a beautiful contrast in flower beds.
Sowing Cornflower seeds in June promotes their growth in well-draining soil under full sunlight. They can handle moderately poor soil conditions, which makes them so adaptable and easy to grow. Sow seeds directly in the garden, spacing them about 10-12 inches apart for optimal growth. Not only do they look stunning in mass plantings, but they are also pollinator-friendly, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.
Marigolds (Tagetes)
Marigolds are iconic summer flowers, celebrated for their cheerful blooms and rich, golden hues. Known for their pest-repelling qualities, marigolds are perfect companions in vegetable gardens, helping to deter nematodes and unwanted insects. Their aromatic foliage and vibrant flowers serve not only to beautify your garden but also to create a natural pest management system.
June is the perfect month to start marigold seeds, as they thrive in warm weather. Plant these seeds in full sun and space them about 8-12 inches apart, depending on the variety. Marigolds are low-maintenance, requiring minimal care and watering once established. You’ll appreciate their long-lasting blooms that can continue growing until the first frost, adding color to your garden throughout the summer.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful but also edible! These flowers feature bright, inviting colors and distinctive round leaves, making them a favorite among gardeners. Their spicy, peppery flavor adds a unique twist to salads and garnishes, and they provide an excellent platform for attracting beneficial insects.
Sowing nasturtium seeds in June takes advantage of the warm weather, encouraging strong growth and profuse blooming. Plant the seeds directly in well-draining soil, spacing them about 10-12 inches apart. Give them full sun or light shade, and watch as they flourish and cascade in vibrant hues. They thrive in poorer soils, so no need to over-fertilize—let them show off their natural beauty, while you enjoy their delicious flowers in your kitchen!
Nicotiana
Nicotiana, commonly known as flowering tobacco, is a plant that boasts fragrant and lush blooms, perfect for evening gardens. Available in various heights and colors, Nicotiana adds structure and beauty to any flowerbed. Their delightful scent is more pronounced in the evening, making them a lovely addition for nighttime enjoyment.
Sow Nicotiana seeds in June, directly in your garden beds situated in full sun or partial shade. These plants appreciate rich, moist soil and can be spaced about 12-18 inches apart to allow for their spread. With minimal care, Nicotiana will provide a stunning floral display that’s sure to attract both people and pollinators alike.
Ricinus (castor oil Plant)
The castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) is a bold choice for those looking to make a statement in their garden. Known for its giant leaves and striking flower spikes, Ricinus exudes a tropical vibe, perfect for adding drama to various settings—from traditional gardens to contemporary landscapes.
Plant Ricinus seeds in June, ensuring they have ample space to grow, as these plants can reach impressive heights. They thrive in warm, sunny locations with good drainage. Just bear in mind that the seeds are toxic if ingested, so keep this in mind if you have pets or children. Once established, make sure to water them regularly, and watch your garden transform into a tropical paradise with these stunning plants.
Stocks (Matthiola)
Stocks are cherished for their fragrance and long-lasting blooms, making them a staple in both cottage gardens and formal displays. Known for their lovely clusters of flowers, Stocks come in a range of colors, from pastels to vibrant shades, bringing joy and charm wherever planted.
Sowing seeds in June allows Stocks to bloom beautifully before the summer heat becomes too intense. These plants prefer cooler temperatures, so you may want to choose early June to plant. They thrive in well-draining soil with lots of sunlight. For the best results, plant seeds about 6-12 inches apart. The result will be a flourishing patch of sweet-smelling flowers that are perfect for cutting and bringing indoors.
Seeds to Sow For Flowers in the Winter Months and Spring Bedding
For those who want to ensure their garden is filled with color well into winter and early spring, certain flower seeds can be sown in June for an early start.
Pansies (Winter-flowering Pansies)
Pansies are a gardener’s favorite for their cheerful countenance and resilience in cooler months. These hardy annuals can bloom in late winter and throughout spring, adding vibrant color when most other plants are dormant. Available in almost every color imaginable, Pansies are perfect for garden borders and pots.
Sow winter-flowering Pansy seeds in June, ensuring they have the right exposure to cool temperatures. Plant them in well-drained soil with adequate sunlight, spacing them about 6-8 inches apart. With proper care, you will be rewarded with stunning blooms that bring life to your winter landscape.
Polyanthus
Polyanthus are another option for those wishing to see flowers during the colder months. These lovely primrose hybrids are colorful, fragrant, and versatile, working well in borders or containers. Their vibrant clusters bloom beautifully, making them ideal for early spring gardens.
Sow seeds in June while providing them with adequate moisture and a cool environment to germinate. Plant them in rich, well-drained soil, spaced about 6-12 inches apart. Polyanthus will reward you with an enduring display of color that will help brighten up any chilly day.
Viola (To overwinter for color in the spring)
Violas are a delightful addition for continuous color throughout the winter and early spring months. Known for their charming faces and diverse color options, these hardy little flowers thrive in cooler temperatures, offering a splash of color in your garden when it is most needed.
Sow Violas in June, focusing on ensuring proper spacing of about 6-12 inches apart. They thrive in partial shade to full sun and appreciate well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. With continued care, expect them to bloom beautifully throughout winter, providing color and cheer until the warmer months return.
Biennials/ Short-lived Perennials to Sow in Summer
For gardeners keen on planting flowers that take a bit longer to establish but pay off in spectacular blooms, biennials and short-lived perennials are a perfect choice. Sow these seeds in June for beautiful blooms in the following years.
Angelica
Angelica is a stunning biennial that adds an architectural element to gardens with its tall flowering stalks. Characterized by its large, umbrella-like clusters of tiny blooms, Angelica is not only visually appealing but also attracts bees and other beneficial insects.
To grow Angelica, sow seeds in June in rich, moist soil in partial shade. These plants prefer cooler conditions and can take a year to establish. Give them space of about 18-24 inches apart, and soon you will have a striking presence in your garden that brings both beauty and biodiversity.
Aquilegia
Aquilegia, or columbine, is a lovely perennial known for its unique, spurred flowers. Available in various colors, these delicate yet hardy plants are perfect for adding whimsy to shady areas of your garden.
Sow Aquilegia seeds in June, as they appreciate a well-drained spot with some shade. Allow them ample space of about 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth. As they establish, expect enchanting blossoms that will persistently grace your garden for many years.
Echium vulgare
Echium vulgare, commonly known as viper’s bugloss, presents bold spikes of bright blue flowers that are irresistible to pollinators, particularly bees. This biennial is well-suited for native gardens, offering a striking and natural aesthetic.
Sow seeds in June in well-draining soil, ensuring they receive full sun. Space them at least 12 inches apart; Echium can become quite tall! These resilient plants will flourish through the summer months and return to surprise you the following spring.
Sea Holly
Known as sea holly, Eringeum giganteum features spiky blooms that add a dramatic flair to border areas. Its striking blue-green foliage and flowerheads create a fantastic focal point in gardens.
Make sure to sow these seeds in June in well-drained soil, with adequate sunlight. Allow for a spacing of about 16 inches apart for optimal growth. With appropriate care, the spiky silhouettes of these plants will elevate your garden’s character, proving to be both eye-catching and hardy.
Foxgloves
Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea) are towering beauties that captivate with their distinctive shape and vibrant colors. These biennials produce tall spikes filled with bell-shaped flowers, serving as excellent vertical elements in your flower beds.
Sow Foxglove seeds in June for a summer display, with proper spacing of about 12-18 inches for their growth. They thrive in partial shade and rich, well-draining soil. As they bloom in their second year, you’ll be enchanted by their lovely array of colors and gentle sway in the breeze.
Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks are timeless garden favorites, boasting tall spikes of large, colorful blooms. These biennials have been loved for generations, often found in traditional cottage gardens.
Sow hollyhock seeds in June to encourage they have enough time to establish and bloom the following summer. Plant them in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, spacing them about 18-24 inches apart for room to grow. In just a year, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking display towering above your garden beds.
Lunaria
Lunaria, or honesty, is known for its unique seed pods that resemble small coins, adding interest even after the flowers have faded. With delicate purple blooms, they are as beautiful as they are practical.
Sow Lunaria seeds in June in moist, well-aerated soil, with a preferred spacing of about 12 inches apart. Given their ability to self-seed, a few plants can provide a lovely display year after year. With their enchanting blossoms and intriguing pods, these flowers bring both beauty and curiosity to your garden.
Papaver (Poppies – California Poppies, Iceland Poppies)
Poppies are a beloved choice for gardeners due to their easy cultivation and vibrant blooms. California poppies and Iceland poppies are particularly favored for their cheerful and colorful displays.
Sow Papaver seeds in June ideally in well-drained soil and lots of sunlight. Space them at about 8 inches apart to accommodate their growth. Once established, you’ll be rewarded with a plethora of colorful blooms, fluttering delightfully in the summer air.
Primulas
Primulas are delightful biennials that bloom abundantly with soft, whimsical flowers. With a range of colors and forms, these plants thrive in moist, well-drained soil, making them suitable for flower beds or shaded areas of your garden.
Plant Primula seeds in June, ensuring they have the proper moisture and light requirements. Space them about 10-12 inches apart to give them room to grow. Once established, expect clusters of colorful flowers that will enliven your garden in the months to come.
Perennial Flower Seeds to Sow In Summer
If you are looking to create a garden that flourishes year after year, consider sowing perennial flower seeds in June. These flowers establish deep roots and provide lasting beauty season after season.
Bellis
Bellis, also known as English daisies, are charming perennials that make perfect edging plants in any garden. With their small, bright flowers in pinks, whites, and reds, they’re a delightful sight that brings cheer to flower beds.
Sow Bellis seeds in June, in rich, well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Space them about 8-12 inches apart, allowing them to thrive. In time, these cheerful little blooms will reward you with a stunning carpet of colors that brings smiles in every season.
Delphiniums
Delphiniums are spectacular perennials recognized for their towering flower spikes and vibrant shades of blue, purple, and white. These majestic plants lend elegance to any garden and are adored by butterflies.
Sow Delphinium seeds in June, ensuring that they have well-drained soil with rich organic matter. Space them 12-18 inches apart, as they grow quite tall. Within a couple of years, you’ll revel in their stunning, vertical display that transforms your garden into a breathtaking spectacle.
Echinacea
Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a beloved perennial due to its striking blooms and medicinal properties. With vibrant petals surrounding a spiky central cone, these flowers invite both beauty and a plethora of beneficial insects to your garden.
Sow Echinacea seeds in June in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Space them about 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth. Once established, Echinacea plants will return year after year, offering longevity and beauty to your flower beds.
Geraniums
Geraniums are versatile perennials that add charm and color through their diverse range of species. Renowned for their fragrance and long-lasting blooms, these plants are perfect for borders, containers, or hanging baskets.
Sow Geranium seeds in June, ensuring they are planted in well-drained soil under full sun or partial shade. Space them adequately to allow air circulation, about 12 inches apart. With the right care, these delightful plants will reward you with a variety of colors and fragrances that enliven your garden for years to come.
Lupins
Lupins are perennial favorites, celebrated for their stunning flower spikes that emerge in a host of colors, from deep blues to soft pinks and whites. Their attractive foliage and tall spikes enhance both cottage gardens and landscapes alike.
Sow Lupin seeds in June in well-drained soil, in a location that receives full sunlight. Space these seeds about 12 inches apart to allow for their generous growth. With proper care and a little patience, you’ll soon be rewarded with glorious towers of blooms, attracting pollinators and eyeing envious neighbors.
Myosotis (forget-me-nots)
Forget-me-nots (Myosotis) are small but mighty perennials known for their charming blue flowers and sentimental value. They make perfect companions for spring gardens, especially along borders or in partially shaded areas.
Sow Myosotis seeds in June in moist, well-drained soil with some light cover. Space them about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety. These lovely blossoms will emerge, ensuring your garden is rich with sweet memories and evocative beauty.
Scabiosa
Scabiosa, commonly known as pincushion flower, is renowned for its unique, delicate blooms and attractive structure. These perennials are excellent for pollinator gardens and attract a wide range of beneficial insects.
Sow Scabiosa seeds in June in well-draining soil with exposure to full sunlight. Space them about 12 inches apart to give the plants room to flourish. With proper attention, you’ll enjoy an enchanting array of blooms that bring both beauty and important biodiversity to your garden.
Strelitzia (bird of paradise flower)
Strelitzia, known as the bird of paradise flower, offers an exotic touch to garden landscapes with its unique flowers resembling a vibrant bird in flight. This perennial thrives in warm climates and adds a tropical allure to any setting.
Sow Strelitzia seeds in June in well-drained, sandy soil and ensure they receive ample sunlight. They require a bit of patience, as they might take time to germinate, but the breathtaking blooms will be well worth the wait. With the right conditions, Strelitzia will bring a touch of paradise to your garden, enchanting anyone who encounters its unique shape and vivid colors.
