🌼 Quick-Blooming Annual Flowers for Canadian Gardens (30–60 Days)
If you're planting in late July or early August, there's still time to enjoy beautiful blooms—especially if you choose fast-growing annuals suited to Zones 2–4. Below is a quick-reference list of popular varieties that go from seed to flower in 4–8 weeks.
- Baby’s Breath (40–50 days) – Light filler that pairs with anything
- Calendula (45–55 days) – Cheerful golds and oranges
- Clarkia (45–55 days) – Delicate blooms, prefers cool nights
- Cosmos (Dwarf) (45–50 days) – Frilly and compact, perfect for containers
- Nasturtium (40–50 days) – Edible, easy, and thrives in poor soil
- Phacelia (40–45 days) – Bee magnet with lacy purple flowers
- Sweet Alyssum (45–50 days) – Fragrant and low-growing
- Sunflowers* (50–60 days) – Choose dwarf types like ‘Teddy Bear’
- Zinnia (Dwarf) (50–60 days) – Bold colour, loves heat
*Dwarf sunflower varieties mature faster—ideal for short Canadian summers.
Where to Buy: Circle Farms offers a curated selection of fast-growing annual flower seeds, handpicked for Canadian climates. All non-GMO and open-pollinated.
If you're staring at a patch of bare soil in late July and wondering if it's too late to plant something beautiful—don't hang up your trowel just yet!
There are several annual flowers that grow fast (we're talking 30–60 days from seed to bloom) and can still put on a show before the first frost hits in Zones 2–4.
Whether you're filling gaps in the garden, looking for a little colour boost, or simply can't resist squeezing in one more sowing session, these fast-growing blooms are here to save the season. Below is a handy chart of quick-flowering annuals that can be direct sown and bloom in as little as 4 to 8 weeks. Just add sun, water, and a little encouragement!
Flowers That Bloom in 30–60 Days
| Plant Name |
Days to Bloom |
Growing Notes |
| Baby’s Breath (Annual) |
40–50 days |
Airy filler flower that pairs well with just about anything |
|
45–55 days |
Cheerful in golds and oranges |
|
|
45–55 days |
Likes cool nights; produces delicate pink or lavender blooms |
|
|
Cosmos (Dwarf) |
45–50 days |
Fast and frilly—try 'Sonata' or 'Sensation Mix' for compact growth |
|
40–50 days |
Edible, low-maintenance, and thrives in poor soil—what’s not to love? |
|
|
40–45 days |
'Bee's Friend' - great for bees and adds lacy purple accents |
|
|
Sweet Alyssum |
45–50 days |
Fragrant and low-growing; perfect for edging or containers |
|
50–60 days |
*Choose dwarf varieties like 'Teddy Bear' or 'Sunspot' for a fast sunny splash, or single stem varieties like ‘ProCut’ or ‘Sunrich’. |
|
|
50–60 days |
Heat-loving and bright—try 'Zahara Raspberry Ripple' for speedy colour |
Tips for Late-Season Success
- Choose dwarf or early-blooming varieties: Not all cultivars bloom at the same speed.
- Avoid planting cool season flowers in the summer heat (pansies, larkspur, nigella, snapdragons, sweet peas)
- Pre-soak seeds overnight to help them germinate faster.
- Direct sow in warm soil: No need for indoor fussing—just sow, water, and watch.
- Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer to give seedlings a head start.
- Water consistently, especially during hot dry spells, to keep them growing strong.
Why Plant Annual Flowers in Late Summer?
Many Canadian gardeners assume that once July rolls around, it’s too late to start anything new. But in Zones 2–4, there’s still time to enjoy a flush of colour before fall sets in—especially if you choose the right fast-growing annuals. These plants are bred to bloom quickly, often within 30 to 60 days, making them perfect for late-season sowing when you're looking to maximize what’s left of your growing window.
Late summer planting is ideal for filling empty patches in the garden, refreshing tired-looking beds, or simply scratching that gardening itch one last time. With warm soil temperatures and plenty of sunshine still ahead, conditions are actually quite favorable for a final round of direct sowing—no indoor starts required.
How to Grow Annuals Fast: Proven Tips
Speed is the name of the game when planting in late July or early August. To give your flowers a head start, choose early-blooming or dwarf varieties and avoid those that prefer cool spring weather. Pre-soaking seeds overnight can boost germination, and direct sowing into warm, loose soil ensures fast root development.
Consistent watering is essential, especially during heat waves, and a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer can provide the nutrients young plants need to flower quickly. Avoid overfeeding, though—excess nitrogen can lead to leafy growth at the expense of blooms. With a bit of extra care and attention, even a late start can yield a stunning seasonal display.
Best Varieties for Quick Colour in Zones 2–4
Canadian growing zones bring a unique set of challenges—short seasons, cool nights, and unpredictable frost dates. That’s why it’s important to pick annual flowers that are both fast-growing and well-adapted to these conditions. Varieties like sweet alyssum, calendula, phacelia, and cosmos (especially dwarf types) are all proven performers in northern gardens.
For bold, cheerful blooms, consider dwarf sunflowers like ‘Teddy Bear’ or ‘Sunspot,’ which mature in under 60 days and thrive in full sun. Nasturtiums, on the other hand, are perfect for poorer soils and double as edible ornamentals. By choosing the right mix of flowers, you can enjoy reliable colour without the stress of overwintering or transplanting.
Where to Buy Fast-Growing Flower Seeds in Canada
Don't let a late start stop you from enjoying fresh flowers in the garden. With these speedy bloomers, you can still enjoy a flush of colour and even sneak in a few bouquets before frost has its way.
Need seeds? At Circle Farms, we offer open-pollinated, non-GMO annual flower seeds curated specifically for Canadian gardeners. We’ve got you covered with fast-growing annuals that are perfect for your last-minute garden plans. Happy planting!