If you're the kind of person who can't wait six months to see your garden thrive, you're not alone. While some flowers take a long time to bloom, others are all about quick and impressive results. Those are the varieties we'll be planting.
Whether you're new to gardening or just short on patience, there's something incredibly satisfying about sowing seeds and watching them transform into full-on floral fireworks in a matter of weeks. These fast-growers are perfect for anyone craving quick color, instant gratification, or a last-minute backyard makeover before the next BBQ.
There is no need to wait for next season. The flowers below can be planted right now, and they don't mess around. They're bold, beautiful, and determined to bloom ASAP. Let's get into five fast-growing flowers that are basically the express lane of gardening.
Zinnias
If Zinnias were a person, they'd be that friend who decorates for every holiday, finishes the group project solo, and still shows up with cupcakes. These babies sprout in just 7–10 days and bloom in as little as 4–6 weeks.
Why we love them:
- Available in every color except blue.
- Thrives in full sun and tolerates heat like a champ.
- Easy to grow from seed—just toss 'em in the dirt and water.
- Pro tip: Deadhead (snip off) old blooms to keep the flowers coming.
Calendula
Calendula is more than just a pretty face; it's basically a flower with a skincare side hustle. This golden beauty germinates in 5–15 days and blooms in 6–8 weeks, depending on the variety.
Why we love them:
- Edible petals! Toss them in salads for bonus flair.
- Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
- Blooms nonstop from early summer through fall.
- Pro tip: Grow them in cooler temps or partial shade in hot climates to avoid flower burnout (yes, even flowers get overwhelmed).
Nasturtiums
Want flowers and free salad toppings? Meet Nasturtiums. These easygoing guys sprout in 7–10 days and bloom in about 5–7 weeks. They also trail beautifully, making them perfect for hanging baskets, borders, or anywhere that needs a touch of wild whimsy.
Why we love them:
- Edible flowers and leaves with a peppery kick.
- Natural pest repellent (bye-bye, aphids).
- No-fuss growers that thrive in poor soil.
- Pro tip: Don't over-fertilize. If there is too much TLC, they'll grow more leaves than flowers.
Cosmos
Cosmos are the stand-up comics of the flower garden: they are tall, cheerful, and not afraid to take up space. They germinate in 7–21 days and bloom in 7–8 weeks, rewarding you with a parade of pastel and vibrant blooms.
Why we love them:
- Perfect for pollinators—bees and butterflies can't get enough.
- Excellent for cutting and arranging.
- They will reseed themselves if you let them.
- Pro tip: Sow directly in the garden once the last frost has passed in your area. They hate being transplanted.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers grow fast and big. Giant varieties might take a little longer, while smaller types like Sunspot or Teddy Bear start blooming in 6–8 weeks.
Why we love them:
- Instant joy. They're like sunshine on a stem.
- Great for kids and beginner gardeners.
- Some varieties are pollen-free.
- Pro tip: Plant them successively every couple of weeks to keep that golden glow going all summer.
Speed Now, Bloom Sooner
Gardening doesn't have to be a lesson in patience. With these fast-growing flowers, you can go from bare dirt to backyard beauty in just over a month. Whether you're sprucing up a porch, balcony, or full-on garden, these blooms bring instant gratification with minimal fuss.
So what are you waiting for? Grab some seeds, clear a patch, and get growing. Your future self (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
