15 Easiest Flowers to Grow (and When They Bloom in Zone 6b)
Starting a flower garden doesn’t have to be complicated! If you’re looking for easy-to-grow flowers that will thrive with minimal fuss, you’re in the right place. I always like to grow my easy no fail flowers and mix in some of the more complicated ones every year to experiment with. These flowers ensure I will have flowers no matter what happens with the new varieties I try! Whether you’re a beginner gardener or just want some low-maintenance blooms, these 15 flowers are a great place to start especially if you plan to take a stap at selling some flowers. Plus, I’ll include approximate bloom times for Zone 6b so you know when to expect that pop of color!
1. Sunflowers
- Bloom Time: Mid-July to early September
- Type: Annual in all zones. My sunflowers have reseeded themselves successfully for years without any help from me!
- These cheerful giants are nearly foolproof. Just plant the seeds after the last frost, give them some sunshine, and watch them grow!
2. Zinnias
- Bloom Time: Late June to frost
- Type: Annual in all zones
- Zinnias are colorful, prolific, and perfect for cutting. They love warm weather and will bloom nonstop if you keep cutting them.
3. Marigolds
- Bloom Time: June to frost
- Type: Annual in all zones
- Hardy and pest-resistant, marigolds are a staple in any beginner’s garden and can even be started inside early. They thrive in full sun and can handle dry spells.
4. Cosmos
- Bloom Time: July to frost
- Type: Annual in all zones
- These airy, delicate flowers are super easy to grow from seed and require little maintenance. Just let them soak up the sun!
5. Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia)
- Bloom Time: Mid-July to September
- Type: Perennial in zones 3-9
- These sunny yellow flowers are drought-tolerant, great for pollinators, and return year after year.
6. Nasturtiums
- Bloom Time: June to September
- Type: Annual in all zones
- With edible flowers and leaves, nasturtiums add beauty and flavor to your garden. They thrive in poor soil and don’t need much fussing over.
7. Coneflowers (Echinacea)
- Bloom Time: Mid-June to late August
- Type: Perennial in zones 3-9
- Perennial and practically unkillable, coneflowers attract pollinators and look stunning in any garden. They are a bit of a slow grower so start seeds in February!
8. Calendula
- Bloom Time: May to frost
- Type: Annual in all zones
- These bright orange and yellow flowers are easy to grow and can even be used for homemade skincare!
9. Sweet Alyssum
- Bloom Time: May to frost
- Type: Annual in most zones, perennial in zones 9-11
- A fragrant ground cover that reseeds itself, sweet alyssum is a great choice for filling in garden gaps.
10. Snapdragons
- Bloom Time: May to late June (reblooming possible in fall)
- Type: Annual in most zones, perennial in zones 7-10. I have had great success with my snapdragons reseeding themselves every year.
- Snapdragons thrive in cool weather and can even tolerate a light frost, making them perfect for early-season color. They can also be started inside early.
11. Larkspur
- Bloom Time: Late May to early July
- Type: Annual in all zones
- These tall, delicate flowers are easy to direct seed and add height and charm to any garden.
12. Poppies
- Bloom Time: May to June
- Type: Annual or perennial depending on variety. Most reseed themselves readily!
- Scatter the seeds in late fall or early spring, and they’ll pop up with minimal effort. Their papery petals are mesmerizing!
13. Daisies
- Bloom Time: Late May to July
- Type: Perennial in zones 3-9
- Classic, cheerful, and ridiculously low maintenance, daisies are perfect for beginners.
14. Yarrow
- Bloom Time: June to September
- Type: Perennial in zones 3-9
- Yarrow is tough, drought-resistant, and attracts loads of pollinators. Once established, it basically takes care of itself!
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to flower gardening or just want an easy, beautiful space to enjoy, these flowers are a fantastic start. Many of them can be grown from seed, require minimal maintenance, and will reward you with months of blooms. 