Written By Lara Wadsworth

We all know about the spring rush to get our gardens planted before too much of the growing season passes. However, did you know that a wide variety of plants, especially wildflowers, will thrive in the coming year if you plant them in the fall? You can get ahead on your spring plantings in the fall-time and reap the rewards of your work in the spring and summer! Below are some of our favorite wildflowers that either require or can withstand cold periods (also known as stratification) and can thus be planted in the fall.

Purple Coneflower - Echinacea purpurea

One of the most popular wildflower perennials. It is native to many North American Regions; it is drought tolerant, low maintenance, has medicinal uses, and is incredibly attractive to crucial pollinators.

Rudbeckia - Rudbeckia hirta

Available in a variety of heights and colors to enjoy! This perennial American native is low maintenance, beautiful, attractive to pollinators, and easily comes back each year.

Lupine - Lupinus perennis

Most notably native to the mountains of Montana and the fields of Texas. A few different varieties thrive in different areas, but all of them can be fall-planted and produce tall, stunning clusters of blooms in the springtime.

Columbine - Aquilegia vulgaris

One of the hardiest wildflowers with breathtakingly delicate blooms. These unique blossoms are shade and moisture tolerant and will take your breath away each spring.

Lavender - Lavandula angustifolia

Everyone loves the scent and look of lavender. It is also exceptionally low maintenance and should be planted in the fall. You will enjoy it for years to come after just one initial planting. We even have a full growing guide dedicated to lavender so you have all the information you need to succeed!

Phlox - Phlox paniculata

This flower has always reminded me of my midwestern home. Phlox is native to the great lakes region and is well-loved there. The delicate clusters of phlox blooms will surely be a winner in your garden, too!

Blue Flax - Linum lewisii

Another native flower that will readily thrive in a variety of locations. These gorgeous blue flowers are easily recognizable and add delight to any space! They even spruce up roadsides and areas of disturbed earth with ease.

Milkweed - Asclepias spp

Famous for their crucial part in monarch butterfly population support. However, they also attract a wide variety of other pollinators! They are also little known for their blooms, but they are actually quite stunning. Be sure to find out which variety is native to your region and purchase that type of seed. Various species of Milkweed are native to specific regions.

No matter what zone you are in, there are native wildflowers you can plant this fall! Be delighted this spring with some pre-planted blooms that are ready to come up.

Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

I am a native of Southwestern Michigan, where I also reside, and I love all things plants! I got a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture and found the first work-from-home job I could get. Now, I spend my days writing for TLM, playing with my dog, eating delicious food with my husband, and plotting my next landscape or gardening move. I believe everyone should get down and dirty in the soil now and then. Happy Gardening!