Expert: Gary Bachman - 7/20/2004

Question
Hi Gary,
 I live in Southern California and right now it is hot, hot, hot! I am interested in having bulbs (planted in containers) for my balcony that will withstand direct sun and possibly also give me cut flowers(I don't even know if that is possible) I have seeds that I would like to sow but am not certain of the procedure. I have Zinnia, Candytuft,Calendula, Evening Primrose, Carnation, California Poppy,Nicotiana,Coreopsis, BlanketFlower and Nasturtium (yes, I agree-I went a tad overboard) If the blooming period is spring do I need to wait until next spring? Thank you for your time and I await your response.

Sincerely,
Ann Kitay

Answer
Ann,

You have picked some really nice plants that will provide cut flowers for you.  However it is a bit late for this year.  I suggest that you to the local greenhouse or nursery and pick some plants that are already mature and producing flowers.

Now the seeds that you have gotten are all annual plants meaning that you will have to seed your planter each year.  Growing plants from seeds is fun if you have patience waiting for them to bloom, some species may take 12 weeks from sowing.  I am going to refer back to my advice above.  If you have a planter on a balcony it will be much easier on you and you will be able to maintain a full planter by frequenting your local grower.  And I do know you have at least a couple of good growers in your area.

Good luck gardeing on the balcony.

Gary