When creating a cutting garden, choosing flowers that bloom continuously, have strong stems, and are able to withstand being cut and arranged is key to ensuring a long-lasting and vibrant display. The best flowers for cutting gardens are those that not only look beautiful in vases but also produce abundant blooms and have great staying power. Below are some of the best flowers to consider for your cutting garden:
1. Sunflowers (Helianthus)
Sunflowers are a classic choice for cutting gardens, thanks to their large, bold blooms and long-lasting nature. They come in a range of colors, from bright yellow to deep red and orange, adding an uplifting touch to any arrangement. Sunflowers are easy to grow and, once cut, can last for several days in a vase, especially if harvested just as the petals begin to open.
2. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are known for their vibrant colors, ranging from pinks, reds, yellows, oranges, and purples. They bloom profusely from summer through fall, making them a fantastic option for a cutting garden. Zinnias have sturdy stems that make them ideal for bouquets, and they also last a long time in water. To ensure a continuous bloom, deadheading (removing spent flowers) is essential.
3. Dahlias (Dahlia pinnata)
Dahlias are renowned for their striking, intricate flowers in a variety of shapes and colors. From pompom-shaped blooms to dinner plate-sized flowers, dahlias add drama to any floral arrangement. They require some care to ensure they bloom well, but once established, they produce abundant flowers throughout the summer and into fall. Cut dahlias early in the morning to ensure they stay fresh longer.
4. Peonies (Paeonia)
Peonies are a luxurious addition to any cutting garden. Their large, fragrant blooms in shades of white, pink, red, and coral are a favorite in floral arrangements. Peonies typically bloom in late spring to early summer, so their window for cutting is relatively short. To get the most out of them, harvest peonies when the buds are firm but not fully open, as they will continue to bloom in the vase.
5. Roses (Rosa)
Roses are a classic and timeless flower for cutting gardens. There are countless varieties of roses, from hybrid tea roses to climbers, each with their own unique colors, shapes, and fragrances. Roses do best in full sun and well-drained soil, and their long stems make them perfect for vases. To prolong their vase life, cut roses early in the morning and place them in water immediately.
6. Lavender (Lavandula)
While lavender is often associated with its aromatic leaves and flowers, it also makes a wonderful addition to a cutting garden. The long, slender spikes of purple or blue flowers add a touch of elegance to any arrangement. Lavender is drought-tolerant, making it an easy-to-grow plant for sunny gardens. When cut, lavender retains its fragrance and lasts for days, making it a great choice for dried arrangements as well.
7. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
Cosmos are delicate, airy flowers that come in a range of colors, from white to deep pink, purple, and orange. Their daisy-like blooms are great for adding texture and contrast to bouquets. Cosmos grow quickly and bloom heavily, often continuing into the fall. Their long stems make them perfect for cutting, and their ability to produce abundant flowers throughout the season ensures that you’ll have plenty to pick.
8. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet peas are known for their intoxicating fragrance and beautiful, pastel-colored blooms. They are perfect for adding a delicate, romantic touch to any arrangement. Sweet peas require cooler temperatures to grow well, and they need regular cutting to encourage further blooms. These flowers are best cut early in the morning, and they can last several days in a vase if their stems are placed in warm water initially.
9. Shasta Daisies (Leucanthemum x superbum)
Shasta daisies, with their bright white petals and golden centers, bring a fresh, cheerful look to any cutting garden. These hardy perennials are low-maintenance and produce abundant flowers that are perfect for adding brightness to bouquets. Shasta daisies have long-lasting blooms, and cutting them regularly encourages further blooming throughout the summer months.
10. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons are another great option for cutting gardens, with their tall spires of colorful blooms that range from pinks and reds to yellows and purples. Snapdragons add vertical interest to floral arrangements and are available in a variety of sizes, from dwarf varieties to taller stems. They tend to bloom from spring to summer, and cutting them regularly will encourage more blooms.
11. Asters (Aster)
Asters are late-blooming flowers that come in shades of purple, pink, blue, and white. They are an excellent choice for extending the bloom time in your garden, as they typically flower in the fall, when many other flowers have finished. Asters are great for adding a pop of color to bouquets and can last for several days in a vase, especially if harvested when the buds are still tight.
12. Tulips (Tulipa)
Tulips are one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring and are well-loved for their elegant shape and vibrant colors. They make for striking centerpieces in bouquets and can be cut once they reach their full bloom. Tulips continue to grow after being cut, so it’s best to cut them when they are fully open. They are also ideal for adding a fresh, springtime feel to arrangements.
13. Marigolds (Tagetes)
Marigolds are an easy-to-grow flower with bright, cheerful colors like yellow, orange, and red. They have sturdy stems and are known for their ability to last in a vase for an extended period. Marigolds can thrive in full sun and are perfect for adding a bold, sunny touch to any arrangement. They also attract beneficial insects, making them great for organic gardens.
14. Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia)
Calla lilies are elegant and unique flowers that make a stunning addition to any cutting garden. With their smooth, trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of white, yellow, orange, and purple, they are ideal for sophisticated floral arrangements. Calla lilies require a bit more care, as they prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. When cut at the right time, they can last up to a week in a vase.
15. Geraniums (Pelargonium)
While not always considered a traditional cut flower, geraniums can add unique foliage and color to bouquets. Their colorful flowers in shades of red, pink, and white can complement other blooms, adding texture and depth to arrangements. Geraniums have a strong, pleasant scent and work well in both fresh and dried arrangements.
Conclusion
When designing a cutting garden, choosing a variety of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the year is essential for ensuring you have an ongoing supply of cut flowers. The best flowers for cutting gardens include a mix of annuals, perennials, and bulbs that provide lasting beauty, fragrance, and color for any floral arrangement. With the right care and maintenance, a cutting garden can provide an endless supply of beautiful blooms to enjoy in your home or share with friends and family.