The Best Flowers for a Cutting Garden: Tips and Suggestions
Do you love fresh flowers in your home or office, but hate the cost and environmental impact of store-bought bouquets? Creating a cutting garden is the perfect solution! A cutting garden is a dedicated area of your landscape where you can grow flowers specifically for cutting and bringing indoors. Having a cutting garden not only provides fresh flowers for your indoor arrangements but also allows you to create stunning floral gifts and centerpieces for events.
If you’re new to the world of cutting gardens, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here we offer tips and suggestions for the best flowers to grow in your cutting garden to make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Factors to Consider in Choosing Flowers for the Cutting Garden
Before we dive into our list of the best flowers for a cutting garden, let’s talk about some of the important factors to consider when choosing which flowers to grow.
Climate and Growing Conditions
First, consider your climate and growing conditions. Not all flowers will grow well in all areas. It’s important to choose flowers that are suited to your climate and the amount of sunlight and rainfall your cutting garden will get.
Flower Size and Type
Second, consider the size and type of flowers you want to grow. Some flowers have large, showy blooms that are perfect for larger arrangements, while others may have smaller or more delicate blooms that are better suited for smaller arrangements.
Bloom Season and Lifespan
Third, consider the bloom season and lifespan of your flowers. It’s important to choose flowers that will bloom throughout the growing season, so you have a steady supply of fresh flowers. Also, look for flowers that last a long time after being cut, otherwise, you’ll spend more time replacing rather than using the flowers in your arrangements.
Stem Length and Strength
Fourth, consider the stem length and strength of your flowers. Flowers with long, strong stems are ideal for cutting and arranging, so look for varieties that fit this criterion.
Top Flowers for a Cutting Garden
Now that we’ve discussed the factors to consider when choosing flowers for your cutting garden, let’s explore the top flower choices. These flowers were chosen because they satisfy most or all of the factors to consider.
Roses
Roses are classic flowers that is perfect for a cutting garden. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes, and they last a long time after being cut. Roses require full sun and well-drained soil.
Dahlia
Dahlias are another popular choice for a cutting garden. They produce large, colorful blooms and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Dahlias require full sun and regular watering.
Peony
Peonies are stunning flowers with large, fragrant blooms in many shades of pink, red, and white. They grow best in cooler climates with full sun exposure.
Zinnia
Zinnias are beautiful annual flowers that are easy to grow and maintain. They come in many bright colors and produce beautiful blooms from summer until fall.
Sunflower
Sunflowers are beautiful statement flowers that will add bright color to your cutting garden. They have long, sturdy stems and produce large, yellow blooms throughout the summer.
Marigold
Marigolds are another beautiful annual flower that are easy to grow and perfect for a cutting garden. They come in shades of yellow, orange, and red and produce beautiful blooms throughout the summer.
Sweet Pea
Sweet peas are fragrant and delicate flowers that are perfect for smaller arrangements. They come in many beautiful pastel colors and will bloom from early summer to early fall.
Salvia
Salvia is a beautiful perennial that produces striking blue or purple flowers in the summer. They require full sun and well-drained soil.
Cosmos
Cosmos are annual flowers that will bloom throughout the summer in shades of pink, purple, and white. They are easy to grow and require full sun.
Coneflower
Coneflowers are beautiful perennials that come in many shades of pink, purple, and white. They bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, making them an excellent choice for a cutting garden.
Tips on How to Grow and Maintain a Cutting Garden
Now that you have some ideas on which flowers to grow in your cutting garden, here are some tips for growing and maintaining a beautiful garden.
Soil Preparation
Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and adding compost to the soil to add nutrients.
Planting and Spacing
When planting, make sure to space your plants correctly to allow for airflow and prevent overcrowding. Some flowers require more room, so make sure to research the recommended spacing for each variety.
Watering and Fertilizing
Water your plants regularly and apply fertilizer as needed. Some plants, like roses and dahlias, require more water and nutrients than others.
Deadheading and Cutting Techniques
Deadhead your flowers regularly by removing spent blooms to encourage more growth and blooms. When cutting flowers for arrangements, cut them in the cooler parts of the day and at a slanted angle to prevent them from wilting.
Pest and Disease Control
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can affect your cutting garden. Some common pests include aphids and spider mites, while common diseases include powdery mildew and black spot. Research how to prevent and treat these issues before they become problematic.