Knowing when to plant flowers in Virginia is the first step to a garden that blooms from spring through fall. This guide will walk you through the best planting times for annuals, perennials, and bulbs across the state’s different regions.
Virginia’s climate ranges from the cooler mountains to the warmer coastal plains. This means your planting schedule depends heavily on where you live. Getting the timing right protects tender plants from late frosts and gives them the best start.
When to Plant Flowers in Virginia
This schedule is your core calendar. It breaks down the year into simple windows for different types of flowers. Remember, these are general guidelines. Always check your local frost dates for the most accuracy.
Early Spring (Late March to April)
This is the time for hardy plants that can handle a light chill. The soil is beginning to warm, but frost is still a possibility.
- Cool-Season Annuals: Directly sow seeds for pansies, violas, and snapdragons. You can also transplant seedlings of these flowers.
- Hardy Perennials: Plant dormant bareroot or container-grown perennials like daylilies, coneflowers, and hostas.
- Summer Bulbs: Wait until the very end of this period, after the last frost, to plant tender bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus.
Late Spring to Early Summer (May to Early June)
The danger of frost has almost certainly passed. This is the main planting season for most summer-blooming flowers.
- Warm-Season Annuals: This is prime time for marigolds, zinnias, petunias, and impatiens. Both seeds and transplants do well in the warm soil.
- Tender Perennials: Plant salvias, lantana, and other perennials that prefer consistent warmth.
- Fall-Blooming Bulbs: Oddly, now is the time to order bulbs like colchicum and autumn crocus for fall delivery.
Fall (September to October)
Fall is arguably the best time to plant many perennials, shrubs, and spring bulbs. The warm soil and cool air encourage strong root growth.
- Spring-Blooming Bulbs: Plant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in October through November, after soil temps drop below 60°F.
- Perennials and Trees: Planting in early fall gives roots weeks to establish before the ground freezes, leading to better growth next spring.
- Cool-Season Annuals: Refresh containers and beds with pansies and ornamental kale for late fall and early winter color.
Virginia’s Planting Regions Explained
Virginia is divided into USDA Hardiness Zones 5a through 8a. Your zone is your best guide for plant survival. Here’s how to adjust your schedule.
Coastal Plain & Tidewater (Zones 7b-8a)
This region has mild winters and early springs. You can plant warm-season flowers 1-2 weeks earlier than the state average. Frost dates are earlier in fall, too.
- Last Spring Frost: Early to mid-April.
- First Fall Frost: Late October to mid-November.
Piedmont Region (Zones 7a-7b)
This is the central part of the state, including cities like Richmond and Charlottesville. It follows the standard state planting calendar most closely.
- Last Spring Frost: Mid to late April.
- First Fall Frost: Mid to late October.
Mountain & Valley Regions (Zones 5a-6b)
Higher elevations mean shorter growing seasons and cooler nights. You must wait longer to plant tender flowers and should choose hardy varieties.
- Last Spring Frost: Early to mid-May.
- First Fall Frost: Late September to early October.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Knowing when to plant is half the battle. Doing it correctly ensures your flowers thrive.
1. Prepare Your Soil
Good soil is the foundation. Start by removing weeds and loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Mix in 2-3 inches of compost to improve drainage and add nutrients. A simple soil test from your local extension office can tell you if you need to adjust the pH.
2. Planting from Seed vs. Transplants
Some flowers are easy from seed; others are better bought as young plants.
- Direct Sow: For easy, fast-growing annuals like sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos. Follow seed packet depth and spacing.
- Start Indoors: For slow-growing flowers like petunias, begin seeds 6-8 weeks before your last frost date.
- Use Transplants: For instant color and for perennials, buy healthy plants from a nursery. Look for sturdy stems and lots of buds, not just open flowers.
3. The Planting Hole
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Gently loosen the roots if the plant is pot-bound. Place it in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and pat gently to remove air pockets.
4. Watering and Mulching
Water thoroughly immediately after planting. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (like shredded bark) around the plants. This keeps soil moist, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch against the plant stems, which can cause rot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced gardeners can make these errors. Here’s what to watch for.
- Planting Too Early: Impatience leads to frost damage. Warm-season flowers planted in cold soil will sit and sulk, not grow.
- Ignoring Your Zone: A plant rated for Zone 8 will likely not survive a Zone 6 winter. Always check the hardiness tag.
- Overcrowding: Give plants room to reach their mature size. Good air circulation prevents disease.
- Forgetting to Harden Off: If you start seeds indoors or buy greenhouse plants, acclimate them to outdoor sun and wind over 7-10 days before planting them out permanantly.
Seasonal Flower Recommendations for Virginia
Choosing the right plant for the right time makes gardening much more succesful.
Spring Stars
- Daffodils (Bulb, Perennial)
- Virginia Bluebells (Native Perennial)
- Bleeding Heart (Perennial)
Summer Showstoppers
- Black-Eyed Susan (Native Perennial)
- Bee Balm (Native Perennial)
- Zinnia (Annual, easy from seed)
Fall Favorites
- Goldenrod (Native Perennial)
- Asters (Native Perennial)
- Ornamental Cabbage (Annual)
FAQ: Best Planting Times for Virginia Gardens
What month is best to start planting flowers in Virginia?
It depends on the flower. For hardy annuals and perennials, April is often safe. For tender summer flowers, wait until Mother’s Day or later, especially in the mountains.
Can I plant perennials in the summer in Virginia?
You can, but it’s riskier. Summer heat stresses new plants. If you must, plant on a cloudy day and be prepared to water almost daily. Early fall is a much better choice.
When should I plant tulip and daffodil bulbs?
Plant them in the fall, from October through November. The soil needs to be cool so they can develop roots without sending up foliage. If you plant them to early, they might sprout prematurely.
Is it too late to plant flowers in July?
For most perennials, yes, it’s late. For fast-growing annuals from transplants, like marigolds or zinnias, you can still get color by late summer if you keep them well-watered.
How do I find my exact frost dates?
The Virginia Cooperative Extension website is a fantastic resource. You can also use the USDA plant hardiness zone map and enter your zip code for a good estimate.
Gardening in Virginia offers a long and rewarding season. By syncing your planting with the natural rhythms of your specific region, you give every flower the best chance to shine. Pay attention to the weather each year, keep notes, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Your garden will thank you with a beautiful display.