I have read that perennials started from seeds do not bloom the 1st year. Does anyone know if this is true? If so, is there any ways to force the blooms?
I have a boat load of plants I am starting from seeds and I am praying they will all bloom in 2007. LoL

It is true to some extent, stuff like purple coneflowers and black eyed susan and allium, etc. will not bloom first year, I usually start my seed in summer and direct sow them (ones that don't need cold peroid) and let them grow a few months. that way after winter they will bloom

Thanks!!!

I had a fair amount of success with perrenials blooming the first season... I put in Dahlias, Forget-me-nots, Blanketflowers (the slowest to start growing but very strong once in the ground) all put out a decent display fairly quickly. Though I started them indoors about this time of year last year so they were quite established, I don't know if that makes a difference. You can see here and here at the results.

aighead WOW!!!!!!!!! that was an awesome reference I have book marked this as I have some of those same seeds going!!! Thanks sooooo much for posting this .. AWESOME

Wow......that is pretty cool!!!!!!!!

Actually, I usually don't grow too many things from seeds; but about three years ago, I started some of my 'Blue River II' Hibiscus from seeds and they did bloom the first year. I was really surprised and very pleased!