What Flowers Can I Plant Now in Virginia? And Why Do Squirrels Love Sunflowers So Much?

What Flowers Can I Plant Now in Virginia? And Why Do Squirrels Love Sunflowers So Much?

Virginia, with its diverse climate and rich soil, offers a plethora of opportunities for gardening enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, understanding what flowers to plant now can significantly enhance your garden’s beauty and productivity. This article delves into the best flowers to plant in Virginia, considering the state’s unique climate zones, and explores a whimsical question: why do squirrels seem to have an inexplicable love for sunflowers?

Understanding Virginia’s Climate Zones

Virginia is divided into several climate zones, each with its own set of growing conditions. The state spans from USDA Hardiness Zones 5b in the mountainous regions to Zone 8a in the southeastern coastal areas. This variation means that the types of flowers you can plant will depend largely on your specific location within the state.

Zone 5b: The Mountainous Regions

In the cooler mountainous areas, such as the Blue Ridge Mountains, the growing season is shorter, and frost can occur as late as May and as early as October. Here, hardy perennials like Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta), Coneflowers (Echinacea), and Daylilies (Hemerocallis) thrive. These flowers are not only resilient to colder temperatures but also add vibrant colors to your garden.

Zone 6: The Piedmont Region

The Piedmont region, which includes cities like Charlottesville and Richmond, experiences a more moderate climate. This area is ideal for planting Zinnias, Marigolds, and Cosmos. These annuals are known for their long blooming periods and ability to withstand the occasional heatwave.

Zone 7: The Coastal Plain

The Coastal Plain, encompassing areas like Norfolk and Virginia Beach, enjoys a longer growing season and milder winters. Here, you can plant Petunias, Impatiens, and Begonias. These flowers are perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden beds or containers.

Zone 8: The Southeastern Coastal Areas

In the warmest parts of Virginia, such as the southeastern coastal areas, the growing season is extended, and the risk of frost is minimal. This zone is perfect for tropical flowers like Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, and Lantana. These plants thrive in the heat and humidity, providing a lush, exotic feel to your garden.

Seasonal Planting Guide

Spring Planting

Spring is an ideal time to plant a variety of flowers in Virginia. As the soil warms up and the risk of frost diminishes, you can start planting Pansies, Snapdragons, and Daffodils. These flowers are known for their early blooms and ability to withstand cooler nights.

Summer Planting

Summer in Virginia can be hot and humid, but there are still plenty of flowers that thrive in these conditions. Sunflowers, Zinnias, and Marigolds are excellent choices for summer planting. These flowers not only add vibrant colors to your garden but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Fall Planting

Fall is a great time to plant perennials and bulbs that will bloom in the spring. Tulips, Crocuses, and Hyacinths are popular choices for fall planting. These flowers require a period of cold dormancy to bloom, making them perfect for Virginia’s cooler fall temperatures.

Winter Planting

While winter is generally a dormant period for most plants, there are still some flowers that can be planted during this time. Winter Pansies and Hellebores are hardy enough to withstand Virginia’s winter chill and will add color to your garden when most other plants are dormant.

The Squirrel-Sunflower Connection

Now, let’s address the whimsical question: why do squirrels seem to love sunflowers so much? Sunflowers produce large, nutrient-rich seeds that are highly attractive to squirrels. These seeds are not only a source of food but also provide essential fats and proteins that help squirrels prepare for the winter months. Additionally, sunflowers are easy for squirrels to access, as their tall stalks and large flower heads make them a convenient target.

Squirrels are known for their resourcefulness and will often go to great lengths to obtain sunflower seeds. They may climb the stalks, chew through the flower heads, or even dig up newly planted seeds. While this can be frustrating for gardeners, it’s also a testament to the sunflower’s appeal in the animal kingdom.

Tips for Protecting Your Sunflowers from Squirrels

If you’re determined to grow sunflowers without interference from squirrels, there are several strategies you can employ:

  1. Use Physical Barriers: Surround your sunflowers with chicken wire or mesh to prevent squirrels from reaching the plants.
  2. Plant Deterrents: Squirrels are less likely to approach plants that have strong scents, such as Marigolds or Garlic.
  3. Provide Alternative Food Sources: Set up a squirrel feeder filled with seeds or nuts away from your sunflowers to divert their attention.
  4. Harvest Early: Collect sunflower seeds as soon as they mature to reduce the temptation for squirrels.

Conclusion

Virginia’s diverse climate zones offer a wide range of opportunities for planting beautiful and resilient flowers. By understanding the specific needs of your region and the seasonal planting guide, you can create a vibrant and thriving garden. And while squirrels may have a particular fondness for sunflowers, with a bit of planning and creativity, you can enjoy these majestic flowers without sharing them with your furry neighbors.

Q: What are the best flowers to plant in Virginia for a beginner gardener? A: For beginners, Marigolds, Zinnias, and Sunflowers are excellent choices. They are easy to grow, require minimal maintenance, and provide vibrant colors to your garden.

Q: Can I plant tropical flowers in Virginia? A: Yes, but only in the warmer coastal areas (Zone 8). Tropical flowers like Hibiscus and Bougainvillea thrive in the heat and humidity of these regions.

Q: How can I protect my flowers from pests like squirrels? A: Use physical barriers like chicken wire, plant deterrents with strong scents, provide alternative food sources, and harvest seeds early to protect your flowers from pests.

Q: What flowers can I plant in Virginia during the winter? A: Winter Pansies and Hellebores are hardy flowers that can withstand Virginia’s winter chill and add color to your garden during the colder months.