If I were made in charge of the gardening realm, the first change I’d make would be getting rid of waiting times to get blooms. I’d ensure whatever is planted starts blooming instantly.
Although this is just my impossible fantasy, there are some fast-blooming flowers out there that can actually start blooming in less than 2 months!
In today’s article, let’s take a look at 12 fast-blooming flowers that can help fill your garden with mesmerizing color. Keep in mind that these flowers typically bloom within 40-60 days after germination, especially when grown in warm, sunny conditions.
Why Plant Fast-Blooming Flowers? It’s Simple!
Fast-blooming flowers are ideal for those who missed spring planting. If you have any unwanted gaps and empty spaces in your garden, cover them up by planting these flowers.
If you haven’t fully mastered patience yet, flowers that bloom quickly can help build confidence and give you a quick boost of motivation.
Fast-blooming perennials often have succession planting potential, and many can even rebloom with some light deadheading.
Fast-Blooming Flower Options
1: Calendula
Calendula flowers offer bright golden and orange petals that bloom in about 45-55 days. This annual loves cool temperatures and prefers full sun for growth.
2: Zinnia
Zinnias germinate fast and bloom in 50 days max. These blooms are great for cutting, and they come in pretty much every color except blue.
3: Cosmos
Cosmos plants can give you airy, pollinator-friendly blooms within 55 days. This annual loves heat and poor soil.
4: Nasturtium
Nasturtiums bloom about 40-50 days after germination and offer both edible flowers as well as edible leaves. These flowers trail beautifully from containers.
5: Marigolds
Marigolds are a classic for a reason. They bloom in just 45-60 days and have a pest-repelling and sun-loving nature that makes them very unique in their category.
6: Cornflower (Bachelor’s Button)
Cornflowers bloom bright blue flowers in just 50-60 days. They’re great for drawing in bees and cottage-style gardens.
7: Alyssum
Alyssums offer tiny white or purple blooms 40-50 days after germination. They’re compact, fragrant, and great for planting around the edges of the garden.
8: Sunflower (Dwarf Varieties)
Sunflower varieties like ‘Teddy Bear’ or ‘Mongolian Giant’ bloom in 55-60 days. I’d suggest going for short-day sunflower types for speedy growth and flowering.
9: Phlox (Annual Variety)
Phlox offers colorful clusters of blooms about 50-55 days after germination. They like the sun and prefer good drainage for optimal growth.
10: Clarkia
Clarkias thrive in cooler temperature regions. They offer delicate and colorful blooms 50-60 days after germination that can pair well against a darker, contrasting garden landscape.
11: Godetia (Farewell-To-Spring)
Though these aren’t very popular flowers, Godetia blooms offer unique petals and bold colors in less than 55 days. However, they must be given full sun for complete growth.
12: Impatiens (Nursery starts or Transplants)
Okay, this one’s kind of cheating… don’t be mad at me! You’ll need to start with nursery transplants or starts to see fast results. But honestly, impatiens are just too gorgeous (and come such bright colors) that I had to slide them into this list.
From transplants, they’ll start blooming in just 14-21 days. They’re a great and reliable choice for shady garden spots.
If you try growing them from seed, though, you’re looking at 85–90 day, so stick to starts if you want quick color.
Some Pro Tips For Faster Bloom Times
Let’s Conclude
I’ve always said that gardening is the hobby of the patient. Growing the best flowers and plants can take months and even years of practice and learning!
However, if you’re someone who’s still in the process of acquiring patience, fast-blooming flowers can be a solid way to build your confidence and obtain proof that gardening is not the complex, troublesome hobby it’s typically made out to be.
Embarking on this journey of growing quick flowers can also equip you with the skills and planting knowledge you need to progress in the realm of gardening later on, acting as a sort of “practice round”.
