When to Plant Spider Flowers

Climates, Zones and Planting Times

• The spider flower grows well in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 11 but, depending on the area, planting and care requirements vary. In zones 4 through 7, spider flower plants must be reseeded each spring, either from purchased seeds or from seeds collected from the flowers in the fall. In zones 8 though 11, spider flowers self-seed in the fall and the seeds germinate in the spring. In warmer climate zones, spider flowers' seeds can be planted in the fall or spring.

Bloom Time and Collecting Seed Pods

• Spider flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and the flowers last until the first frosts. Collect the seedpods before they split open and scatter the seeds. Collect seeds in cold climates to plant them the following growing season. In mild climates, spider flowers are likely to proliferate if left unchecked. Collect the seeds in the fall and re-sow them in the desired amounts and areas; otherwise, you might find you're overrun by this voracious plant.

Starting Spider Flowers from Seed

• There are two ways to start spider flowers from seed: either in a greenhouse or directly into the soil. In cold climates where winters are prone to heavy freezing, starting spider flower seeds in a greenhouse or indoors gets a head start on the growing season. The seeds take six to eight weeks to germinate and grow large enough to plant outdoors. Starting seeds in mid-winter and they'll be ready to plant in spring. Alternately, plant the seeds outdoors directly into the garden bed in the spring, or, in mild, frost-free climates, in the fall or spring.

Where to Plant Spider Flowers

• Spider flowers enjoy full sun, though these flowers do tolerate part shade. Once established, plants can tolerate mild drought. Plant spider flowers in wild areas or sunny borders. These plants can look a bit informal and leggy so plant them somewhere where this attribute fits in with the other plants. Spider flowers also grow well in containers and sunny shrub beds. Plant spider flowers in soil that is rocky or loamy and provides drainage during wet seasons. Apply water to the soil around spider flowers when the top 3 inches feels dry.