Cut Flower Gardening for Beginners: Favorite Annuals

Zinnias are annual flowers that come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes. They are good for a cut flower garden because they continuously bloom throughout the summer, especially when you pinch them back as they get bushier and taller.

When planting cosmos, space them out to give them room to fill in. Pinch them back when they reach 8 to 12 inches to encourage bushiness. They produce many buds and are heavy on top, so it's advisable to stake them early to prevent them from falling over.

Celosia, also known as wool flowers, have a fuzzy texture and come in vibrant colors. They should be pinched back when they reach 8 to 12 inches, require good drainage, and must not be overwatered. Celosia loves sun and warmth and can be used as dried flowers if hung upside down.

Snapdragons should be pinched back when they start getting tall, which will help them bush up and continue to bloom. They come in a wide range of colors and are perfect for cutting for bouquets.

Ageratum is a non-stop bloomer from midsummer to fall that adds a pop of intense color and perfect texture to bouquets. It can grow up to 30 inches tall, depending on the variety. To promote continuous blooms, prune ageratum back regularly and make sure to keep them in the sun.

Lavender is loved for its fragrance and ease of growth, and it acts as a great pollinator. It comes in various types, including variegated versions. Cutting back lavender will promote more growth, allowing you to harvest multiple bunches.

Yes, you can still plant sunflowers late in the season. They may bloom later, which is sometimes desirable for sunflowers. You can also buy them already blooming to plant in the ground for an immediate addition to your garden.