Photography by Kier Holmes.
I’m not much of a “scatter seeds” type of gardener, but only because I haven’t had much luck with the process. For the best advice and insider info on growing these pretty annuals, I spoke with Judith Larner, owner of Larner Seeds in Bolinas, California, and author of two gardening books.
Farewell to Spring, Clarkia
The best time to sow Clarkias is mid to late fall.
You don’t really need tips,” Judith tells me. Clarkias are annual wildflowers that were once called Godetias.
And if you space them out, sowing every two weeks or so, you will have a long bloom period,” she says.
A medley of wildflowers, including Clarkias.
The easiest Clarkia, according to Judith, is Clarkia amoena. Generally, Clarkias like a relatively sunny spot, but in case you’re not blessed with these conditions, luckily there’s one for that: Clarkia concinna (AKA red ribbons).
Cheat Sheet
Clarkias have a good success rate when it comes to germinating.
Clarkias soaking up the sun.
Keep It Alive