For a flexible fall planting, I’d choose The Old Farmer’s Almanac Premium Wildflower Seeds as my best overall pick: its 23-variety mix offers more bloom diversity than a single-species packet. New England aster seeds stand out for gardeners who want a focused late-season nectar source, while Autumn Beauty sunflowers suit those seeking bold flowers and a simple, recognizable planting. The main tradeoff is between diverse mixes that cover more ground and single varieties that give you more control over what grows. Bloom timing, local suitability, and planting space matter as much as seed count. Read on for the full breakdown and help matching a seed option to your garden.
Get garden gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The Old Farmer’s Almanac 23-variety mix earns the overall lead for offering more species diversity than any single-flower option in this lineup.
- New England aster seeds are the focused choice for gardeners who want to dedicate space to a perennial associated with late-season blooms; they are less versatile than a mix.
- Autumn Beauty sunflowers offer a distinct, upright planting rather than a low, mixed patch, so they need room and are not a substitute for a broad range of flower shapes.
- Large seed counts do not guarantee longer bee forage: the 90,000-plus-seed Home Grown mix and other bulk packets still depend on species, spacing, and local growing conditions.
- Perennial mixes and annual-and-perennial blends serve different timelines: perennials can return after establishment, while annuals can add first-season color but may need replanting.
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds |  | Best for a Reliable Fall Nectar Anchor | Seed count: 600 | Plant type: New England aster (Aster novae-angliae) | Bloom period: Fall to winter | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| The Old Farmer’s Almanac Premium Wildflower Seeds, 23-Variety Pollinator Mix |  | Best for a Diverse Pollinator Patch | Varieties: 23 | Seed type: Annual and perennial wildflowers | Blooming period: Summer to fall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eden Brothers All Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 oz |  | Best Perennial Mix for Broad Hardiness | Quantity: 1 oz | Species: 19 | Seed type: Perennial wildflower mix | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bee & Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 25 Annual and Perennial Varieties, 10,000+ Seeds, Covers 100–120 sq. ft. |  | Best for Covering a Large Sunny Area | Varieties: 25 heirloom annual and perennial varieties | Seed count: 10,000+ | Package weight: 40 g | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mixrug Mixed Perennial Chrysanthemum Seeds, 507+ Seeds, Assorted Colors |  | Best for Fall Color and Cut Flowers | Seed count: 507+ | Plant type: Perennial chrysanthemum | Bloom season: Fall, spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Autumn Beauty Heirloom Sunflower Seeds, Non-GMO, 100 Seeds |  | Best for a Bold, Bee-Friendly Focal Point | Seed quantity: Approximately 100 | Plant height: 5 to 7 feet | Bloom size: 4 to 8 inches across | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mountain Valley Seed Co. Save the Bees Wildflower Seed Mix, 2 oz |  | Best for Pollinator Mix Variety | Seed weight: 2 oz | Seed count: 80,000+ | Varieties: 19 annual and perennial varieties | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New England Aster Seeds, 500+ Purple Perennial Wildflower Seeds |  | Best for Reliable Late-Season Bee Flowers | Seed quantity: 500+ | Plant type: Perennial wildflower | Blooming period: Late summer to fall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eden Brothers Burst of Bloom Wildflower Mixed Seeds, 1/4 lb |  | Best for Covering a Large, Diverse Area | Seed quantity: 120,000+ seeds | Item weight: 4 ounces | Species: 20 annual and perennial species | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 500+ Heirloom Chrysanthemum Flower Seeds |  | Best for Color Variety in a Fall Border | Seed count: 500+ | Plant type: Chrysanthemum | Flower colors: Purple, orange, red, rose, yellow, and white | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 90,000+ Seeds, 3 oz |  | Best for Broad Seasonal Variety | Seed varieties: 24 | Seed quantity: 90,000+ | Package weight: 3 oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Seeds, 18 Varieties |  | Best for Defined Coverage | Seed count: At least 25,000 | Flower varieties: 18 | Coverage: Up to 1,000 square feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| fall flowers for bee | Sunlight | Seed count | Seed type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom | Full sun or partial sun | 600 | — |
| The Old Farmer’s Almanac Premi | — | — | Annual and perennial wildflowers |
| Eden Brothers All Perennial Wi | — | — | Perennial wildflower mix |
| Bee & Butterfly Wildflower See | — | 10,000+ | — |
| Mixrug Mixed Perennial Chrysan | — | 507+ | — |
| Autumn Beauty Heirloom Sunflow | Partial sun | — | Heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated |
| Mountain Valley Seed Co. Save | — | 80,000+ | — |
| New England Aster Seeds | Full sun | — | Non-GMO, heirloom, open-pollinated |
| Eden Brothers Burst of Bloom W | Full sun | — | — |
| 500+ Heirloom Chrysanthemum Fl | Full sun | 500+ | — |
| Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflow | Full sun | — | Non-GMO |
| Burpee Perennial Wildflower Se | Full sun | At least 25,000 | Non-GMO |
More Details on Our Top Picks
600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds
I’d put this New England aster first for gardeners who want a distinct fall bloom rather than a broad mix with less predictable timing. Its purple perennial flowers are described as blooming from early to late fall, giving bees a focused late-season food source, and the plants can return in USDA zones 2–8. Compared with the Old Farmer’s Almanac 23-Variety Pollinator Mix, this is a more targeted choice: fewer kinds of flowers, but a clearer fall-blooming role and a generous 600-seed count. The tradeoff is extra preparation. Seeds need eight weeks of cold stratification, and established plants need regular watering. I’d choose it for a planned bed or border, not for someone seeking the quickest, least hands-on planting project.
Pros:- Fall-blooming perennial flowers provide a focused late-season option for bees and butterflies.
- Hardy across a broad range of USDA zones, from 2–8.
- The 600-seed quantity can support a larger bed or several planting areas.
- Can grow in full or partial sun.
Cons:- Requires eight weeks of cold stratification before sowing.
- Regular watering is needed, so it may not suit a low-water planting plan.
- Its single-species focus offers less floral variety than a mixed wildflower seed blend.
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 2–8 who can plan ahead and want a perennial aster planting for late-season bee forage.
Not ideal for: New gardeners looking for seeds they can sow immediately without preparation, or anyone unable to keep seedlings and plants regularly watered.
- Seed count:600
- Plant type:New England aster (Aster novae-angliae)
- Bloom period:Fall to winter
- Cold stratification:8 weeks
- Sunlight:Full sun or partial sun
- USDA hardiness zones:2–8
- Expected height:48 inches
- Spacing:18–24 inches
- Watering:Regular
Our verdict“Choose this aster if you can prepare seeds ahead and want a perennial planting aimed squarely at fall bee forage.”
I’d choose this mix when variety across a long bloom window matters more than a single flower’s dependable fall timing. Its 23 annual and perennial varieties include cosmos, poppy, snapdragon, and zinnia, with flowering described from summer to fall; bees share the planting with butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. That breadth gives it a different purpose from the 600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds, which make a more targeted bet on fall flowers and perennial return. The mix’s main compromise is less certainty about the exact fall contribution: the listed varieties span seasons, and no coverage area or planting instructions are supplied here. It also calls for full sun, so I’d skip it for a shaded yard. For sunny space and a varied pollinator garden, it’s the more flexible floral palette.
Pros:- Combines 23 annual and perennial varieties for a diverse planting.
- Blooming is described from summer to fall, extending the potential forage period.
- Designed to attract bees as well as butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Non-GMO, open-pollinated seed mix.
Cons:- Full-sun exposure limits where it can be planted.
- The product details do not specify seed quantity or planting coverage.
- A mixed seasonal lineup is less targeted to fall than a dedicated New England aster planting.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny planting area who want a varied mix to feed several kinds of pollinators from summer into fall.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a clearly specified fall-only bloom plan, a known coverage area, or flowers for a shaded site.
- Varieties:23
- Seed type:Annual and perennial wildflowers
- Blooming period:Summer to fall
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Pollinators attracted:Butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators
- Selected varieties:Columbine, cosmos, foxglove, larkspur, poppy, snapdragon, and zinnia
- GMO status:Non-GMO
- Pollination:Open-pollinated
Our verdict“Pick this mix for a sunny, varied pollinator patch, but choose New England aster if fall-specific flowers are your main goal.”
Eden Brothers All Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 oz
This is my pick for gardeners who want perennial variety across a wide climate range rather than a seed mix built around one signature fall flower. The 19-species blend includes lupine, Shasta daisy, and purple coneflower, and its flowers are described as blooming from summer through fall while attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Compared with the Old Farmer’s Almanac 23-Variety Pollinator Mix, Eden Brothers is all perennial, which better suits a long-term planting but gives up annual flowers that could add variety in the first season. Its USDA zones 3–10 range is broad, though it still requires full sun. The listing offers no species-by-species bloom schedule, so I wouldn’t choose it when a precise fall nectar calendar is the priority. It makes more sense for a sunny area where a mixed perennial bed can establish over time.
Pros:- Contains 19 perennial flower species in one mix.
- Listed for USDA zones 3–10, covering a broad range of climates.
- Flowers are described as attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Can be planted in spring or fall.
Cons:- Full sun is preferred, limiting use in shaded gardens.
- No species-by-species bloom schedule is provided to help plan fall forage.
- Unlike the Old Farmer’s Almanac mix, it does not include annual varieties.
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 3–10 who have a sunny site and prefer a mixed perennial planting over an annual-and-perennial blend.
Not ideal for: People gardening in shade or those who need a specific, documented fall flowering schedule from each seed type.
- Quantity:1 oz
- Species:19
- Seed type:Perennial wildflower mix
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Hardiness zones:USDA zones 3–10
- Bloom period:Summer through fall
- Planting season:Spring or fall
- Seeds:Non-GMO
Our verdict“Choose Eden Brothers for a sunny, mixed perennial bed across zones 3–10, not for a tightly scheduled fall-only display.”
Bee & Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 25 Annual and Perennial Varieties, 10,000+ Seeds, Covers 100–120 sq. ft.
For a gardener filling a sizable sunny patch, this mix stands out for its stated coverage of 100–120 square feet and 10,000-plus seeds across 25 annual and perennial varieties. That makes it easier to plan a broad planting than with the Eden Brothers All Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, whose listed package is one ounce but has no coverage figure in the supplied details. The resealable, moisture-proof pouch also helps protect remaining seed between sowing sessions. The drawback is that the description gives little help with timing: it calls the bloom period year round but offers no specific schedule or germination rate, so I wouldn’t rely on it alone for a carefully timed fall nectar gap. Full sun is required, too. This is a practical area-filler for sunny ground, less suited to shade or precision planting.
Pros:- Lists coverage for a substantial 100–120-square-foot planting.
- Includes more than 10,000 seeds across 25 annual and perennial varieties.
- A resealable, moisture-proof pouch helps protect seed kept for later sowing.
- Designed to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Cons:- Full sun is required, limiting placement options.
- No specific germination rate or detailed bloom schedule is provided.
- The broad year-round bloom claim gives less useful fall timing guidance than the New England aster seeds.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny, open bed of roughly 100–120 square feet who want many annual and perennial flowers from one mix.
Not ideal for: People with shaded planting areas or buyers who need a clear fall bloom schedule and detailed germination expectations.
- Varieties:25 heirloom annual and perennial varieties
- Seed count:10,000+
- Package weight:40 g
- Coverage:100–120 sq. ft.
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Expected blooming period:Year round
- Pouch:Moisture-proof and resealable
Our verdict“Choose this for broad coverage in a sunny pollinator garden, but look to New England aster for clearer fall-bloom timing.”
Mixrug Mixed Perennial Chrysanthemum Seeds, 507+ Seeds, Assorted Colors
I’d choose these chrysanthemums when late-summer and fall color needs to do double duty as garden flowers and cut stems. The mix offers more than 507 seeds and assorted forms and colors, with perennial plants described as suitable for borders, containers, and bouquets. Compared with the 600 New England Aster Heirloom Flower Seeds, this is the more ornamental, variable choice; the aster has a clearer pollinator-focused description and broader listed hardiness, while this product’s supplied details do not specifically confirm bee attraction. Its USDA zone listing is limited to zone 6, and the flowers need full sun and regular watering. Color and form may vary, too, so I wouldn’t buy it for a uniform display. It suits gardeners who value autumn looks and cut flowers as much as bee forage.
Pros:- Fall blooms can add seasonal color to borders, containers, and cut-flower gardens.
- More than 507 seeds provide a substantial quantity for sowing.
- Mixed flower forms and colors offer an informal, varied display.
- Plants are described as perennial and cold hardy.
Cons:- The supplied product details do not specifically state that the flowers attract bees.
- The listed hardiness zone is limited to USDA zone 6.
- Requires full sun and regular watering, and flower color and form can vary.
Best for: Zone 6 gardeners with a sunny, regularly watered bed or containers who want fall flowers for both pollinator planting and bouquets.
Not ideal for: Gardeners outside the listed USDA zone 6 range, those with shaded or dry sites, or anyone who needs confirmed bee-attraction information and consistent flower colors.
- Seed count:507+
- Plant type:Perennial chrysanthemum
- Bloom season:Fall, spring
- USDA hardiness zone:6
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Soil type:Loam
- Watering needs:Regular watering
- Color:Mixed
- Material features:Heirloom
Our verdict“Pick these chrysanthemums for varied fall color and cutting in a sunny zone 6 garden, but favor New England aster for a more clearly documented bee-focused choice.”
Autumn Beauty Heirloom Sunflower Seeds, Non-GMO, 100 Seeds
Autumn Beauty sunflowers earn their place for gardeners who want tall, conspicuous flowers alongside late-season pollinator activity. Their branching habit can produce multiple 4-to-8-inch blooms in gold, bronze, copper, burgundy, and orange, so they offer more cutting stems than a single-stalk sunflower. Compared with the New England Aster Seeds, this is a taller, more dramatic annual display rather than a perennial source of fall flowers that can return after establishment. The tradeoff is timing: blooms typically arrive 75 to 90 days after sowing, so late planting may miss the fall window. These plants also need moderate, regular watering and weed control. I’d choose them for a sunny space where height and bouquet potential matter as much as bee visits, not for a low-maintenance or compact border.
Pros:- Branching growth can provide multiple flowers for pollinators and bouquets.
- Warm-toned blooms bring varied color, including bronze, copper, and burgundy.
- Attracts pollinators and can provide food for birds.
- Open-pollinated, heirloom, non-GMO seed.
Cons:- The 75-to-90-day wait can leave late sowings blooming too late for fall.
- Tall plants need ample space and may be unsuitable for small beds.
- Moderate watering and weed control add ongoing care.
Best for: Gardeners with room for tall flowers who want colorful autumn stems for bees, birds, and cutting.
Not ideal for: Small-space gardeners or anyone planting late in the season who needs flowers quickly; plants reach 5 to 7 feet and take 75 to 90 days to bloom.
- Seed quantity:Approximately 100
- Plant height:5 to 7 feet
- Bloom size:4 to 8 inches across
- Time to bloom:75 to 90 days after sowing
- Bloom season:Summer to fall
- Sunlight:Partial sun
- Hardiness zones:USDA Zones 2–10
- Seed type:Heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated
Our verdict“Choose these sunflowers for a spacious garden and a high, multicolored display, but pick New England asters for a perennial fall-flowering option.”
Mountain Valley Seed Co. Save the Bees Wildflower Seed Mix, 2 oz
Save the Bees Wildflower Seed Mix is the broad-coverage choice for someone who would rather sow a blend than select individual fall flowers. Its 19 annual and perennial varieties and stated coverage of about 250 square feet make it more suited to filling a sunny patch than the Autumn Beauty Sunflowers, which concentrate the display in tall, distinct plants. The mix is explicitly aimed at pollinators, but its listed expected bloom period is summer, so I wouldn’t rank it ahead of late-summer-to-fall specialists such as the New England Aster Seeds when dependable autumn bloom is the main goal. It also needs full sun, and spring germination may take 20 to 30 days. This makes the most sense for gardeners seeking varied flowers over a larger area, with fall coverage as part of a broader season-long planting.
Pros:- Combines 19 annual and perennial wildflower varieties.
- Designed to attract bees and other pollinators.
- Stated coverage of about 250 square feet suits a broad planting.
- Non-GMO seed mix.
Cons:- Summer is the listed expected bloom period, so late-fall performance is less clearly targeted than asters.
- Requires full sun, limiting where it can be planted.
- Spring germination can take 20 to 30 days.
Best for: Gardeners with a full-sun area of roughly 250 square feet who want a mixed annual-and-perennial pollinator planting.
Not ideal for: Gardeners focused specifically on reliable late-fall flowers or planting in partial shade; the expected bloom period is summer and the mix calls for full sun.
- Seed weight:2 oz
- Seed count:80,000+
- Varieties:19 annual and perennial varieties
- Coverage:About 250 sq. ft.
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Water needs:Moderate
- Expected bloom period:Summer
- Planting and germination:Direct sow after last frost; spring germination in 20–30 days
Our verdict“Pick this mix for broad, sunny pollinator coverage, but choose New England aster seeds when fall bloom timing matters more than variety.”
New England Aster Seeds, 500+ Purple Perennial Wildflower Seeds
New England aster is the most directly fall-focused pick in this batch: its purple-pink flowers bloom from late summer into fall, when many summer displays are fading. As a perennial, it also offers a different longer-term role from the annual-focused Autumn Beauty Sunflowers and the broad mixed planting of Save the Bees Wildflower Seed Mix. The plants can reach 5 feet and attract bees and butterflies, while stems can be cut for arrangements. The main hurdle is establishment: seeds need cold stratification to germinate, and young plants need watering during their first growing season. It prefers full sun and suits USDA Zones 3–8, so it is less flexible by location than the sunflower seeds. I’d favor this for a gardener willing to prepare seed properly in exchange for a dedicated fall perennial.
Pros:- Flowers from late summer into fall, directly matching the seasonal focus.
- Perennial growth can provide a recurring garden feature after establishment.
- Attracts bees and butterflies and provides stems for cutting.
- Offers 500+ heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds.
Cons:- Seeds need cold stratification before germination.
- Young plants require watering during their first growing season.
- Full sun and USDA Zones 3–8 narrow its planting fit.
Best for: Gardeners in USDA Zones 3–8 who want a tall perennial with flowers specifically timed for late summer and fall.
Not ideal for: Gardeners who want quick, low-effort results from seed or who have a shaded bed; cold stratification and full sun are required.
- Seed quantity:500+
- Plant type:Perennial wildflower
- Blooming period:Late summer to fall
- Flower color:Purple-pink blooms with golden centers
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Hardiness zones:USDA Zones 3–8
- Plant height:Up to 5 feet
- Seed type:Non-GMO, heirloom, open-pollinated
Our verdict“Choose New England asters for a fall-timed perennial bee planting if you can handle seed preparation and first-season care.”
Eden Brothers Burst of Bloom Wildflower Mixed Seeds, 1/4 lb
Burst of Bloom stands out when the goal is to seed a sizeable area with a varied flower mix rather than build the bed around one fall specialist. Its 20 annual and perennial species, including cosmos, coneflower, and Black-Eyed Susan, are listed to bloom from summer through fall and can cover about 250 to 500 square feet. That gives it broader stated coverage than Mountain Valley’s Save the Bees mix, which lists about 250 square feet, while New England asters are the more focused choice for late-season color. The range of species can bring bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, but the mix needs full sun and suitable planting conditions for germination. Its broad coverage estimate also means results may vary with site and sowing conditions. I’d choose it for a sunny, open area, not a shaded or tightly controlled border.
Pros:- Twenty annual and perennial species create a varied planting.
- Listed bloom period runs from summer through fall.
- Coverage estimate of 250 to 500 square feet suits larger areas.
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Cons:- Requires full sun, which limits suitable planting sites.
- Germination depends on watering and appropriate planting conditions.
- A mixed-species planting may be less predictable than a dedicated fall-flowering aster bed.
Best for: Gardeners with a large, sunny outdoor area who want mixed summer-to-fall flowers for several kinds of pollinators.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shade, a small defined bed, or a need for a predictable late-fall bloom from a single species.
- Seed quantity:120,000+ seeds
- Item weight:4 ounces
- Species:20 annual and perennial species
- Coverage:Approximately 250–500 square feet
- Hardiness zones:USDA Zones 3–10
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Blooming period:Summer through fall
- Watering:Moderate
Our verdict“Choose Burst of Bloom for broad, sunny coverage and varied pollinator appeal, but choose New England asters for a more targeted fall display.”
500+ Heirloom Chrysanthemum Flower Seeds
Heirloom Chrysanthemum Seeds are the color-first choice here, with a mix spanning purple, orange, red, rose, yellow, and white and a stated summer-and-fall bloom period. That range gives a border more color variety than the purple-pink New England Aster Seeds, but asters have clearer late-season timing and a stated perennial habit. These chrysanthemums attract pollinators and can also supply cut flowers, though the product data doesn’t specify a bloom window as tightly as the aster listing. Starting seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last spring frost can give plants a head start, but flowering time may still vary with the mix and growing conditions. Full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering make this a more hands-on pick than simply choosing a hardy perennial. I’d select it for gardeners who value color range and are willing to manage sowing and moisture.
Pros:- Includes purple, orange, red, rose, yellow, and white flowers.
- Listed to bloom in summer and fall.
- Attracts pollinators and offers flowers for cutting.
- Seeds can be started indoors before the last spring frost.
Cons:- Flowering time can vary with variety and growing conditions.
- Requires regular watering during growth and flowering.
- Full sun and well-drained soil are needed for the stated growing conditions.
Best for: Gardeners who want multiple flower colors for a sunny summer-to-fall border and are prepared to start seeds indoors.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a clearly specified perennial with dependable late-fall timing or a low-watering planting.
- Seed count:500+
- Plant type:Chrysanthemum
- Flower colors:Purple, orange, red, rose, yellow, and white
- Expected blooming period:Summer and fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Soil type:Sandy soil
- Indoor starting time:2–4 weeks before the last spring frost
- Seed features:GMO-free, heirloom
Our verdict“Choose these chrysanthemums for a colorful, managed summer-to-fall border, but choose New England asters for a more clearly timed perennial fall bloom.”
Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 90,000+ Seeds, 3 oz
I’d choose this mix for a sunny garden where a range of flower types matters more than a tightly defined planting plan. Its 24 varieties include Purple Coneflower and Black-Eyed Susan, and the stated spring-to-fall bloom period gives bees more chances to find flowers across the season than a single-species planting. Compared with Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, this package lists more varieties and over 90,000 seeds, but Burpee provides a stated coverage area of up to 1,000 square feet; Home Grown does not specify coverage, so estimating how much ground it will fill is harder. The included growing guide is helpful for newer gardeners, though full sun and moderate watering limit where it will thrive. I’d skip it for shade or for buyers who need a precise seeding rate.
Pros:- Lists 24 flower varieties, including Purple Coneflower and Black-Eyed Susan.
- More than 90,000 seeds offer a large quantity for outdoor planting.
- Expected blooms span spring through fall, giving pollinators a longer seasonal window.
- Includes a growing guide for planting support.
Cons:- Requires a full-sun planting site.
- Moderate watering is needed, so it may not suit hands-off or very dry sites.
- No coverage area is specified, making seed planning less precise than with Burpee’s mix.
Best for: Sunny-garden owners who want many flower varieties and a growing guide, and do not need a specified coverage estimate.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shaded beds or anyone planning a measured area who needs a stated square-foot coverage rate.
- Seed varieties:24
- Seed quantity:90,000+
- Package weight:3 oz
- Seed type:Non-GMO
- Expected bloom period:Spring to fall
- Expected plant height:2 feet
- USDA hardiness zones:3–10
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Included:Growing guide
Our verdict“Choose this mix for a sunny planting where broad variety and seed quantity matter more than a precise coverage estimate.”
Burpee Perennial Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Seeds, 18 Varieties
Burpee stands out for gardeners who want a clear planting-area estimate: the mix is listed to cover up to 1,000 square feet, a useful planning detail that Home Grown’s 24-variety mix does not provide. It has 18 non-GMO varieties, including coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, and yarrow, with expected blooms from spring through fall to offer pollinators food across the season. The tradeoff is a smaller stated seed count—at least 25,000 versus Home Grown’s 90,000-plus—and fewer varieties. Its perennial mix also suits gardeners seeking flowers that can return, rather than a quick annual-only display. Full sun is required, and seedlings need consistent moisture during their first few weeks, so this is less suitable for dry sites or gardeners unable to tend a new sowing.
Pros:- Lists coverage of up to 1,000 square feet for easier area planning.
- Includes 18 varieties, including coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, and yarrow.
- Expected spring-to-fall blooms can provide pollinator forage across multiple seasons.
- Non-GMO seeds.
Cons:- At least 25,000 seeds is a smaller stated quantity than Home Grown’s 90,000-plus.
- Needs a full-sun planting area.
- Seedlings require consistent moisture and attention during the first few weeks.
Best for: Gardeners sowing a sunny, larger plot who want a stated coverage estimate and a perennial-focused mix.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking the highest stated seed quantity or those unable to keep newly sown seedlings consistently moist.
- Seed count:At least 25,000
- Flower varieties:18
- Coverage:Up to 1,000 square feet
- Seed type:Non-GMO
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Planting period:Spring to fall
- USDA hardiness zones:4–10
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Watering:Moderate; keep soil moist during the first few weeks
Our verdict“Pick Burpee for a sunny, measured planting area where stated coverage and a perennial mix matter more than maximum seed count.”
How We Picked
I compared these 12 seed options by how well their stated formats support a fall-focused bee garden: single-species seeds versus mixed varieties, annual and perennial composition where specified, packet quantity or stated coverage, and the practical space each format may suit. I gave more weight to a plausible path toward varied forage and useful planting guidance than to seed count alone, since a large packet does not establish bloom timing, germination, or regional fit.
The ranking favors options that offer a clear role and a useful balance of variety, fall relevance, and planting flexibility. That puts the 23-variety Almanac mix first as a versatile starting point, while New England aster ranks higher for a targeted late-season planting and sunflowers for a distinct, spacious garden feature. Other broad mixes follow according to their stated variety, perennial or annual makeup, and coverage details; single chrysanthemum packets rank lower because the listing information gives less evidence of diversity or reliable fall performance. Seed names and packet counts alone cannot confirm bloom dates, native status, or suitability for every region, so I treat those as details buyers should verify before sowing.
| fall flowers for bee | Sunlight | Seed type |
|---|---|---|
| 600 New England Aster Heirloom | Full sun or partial sun | — |
| The Old Farmer’s Almanac Premi | — | Annual and perennial wildflowers |
| Eden Brothers All Perennial Wi | — | Perennial wildflower mix |
| Bee & Butterfly Wildflower See | — | — |
| Mixrug Mixed Perennial Chrysan | — | — |
| Autumn Beauty Heirloom Sunflow | Partial sun | Heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated |
| Mountain Valley Seed Co. Save | — | — |
| New England Aster Seeds | Full sun | Non-GMO, heirloom, open-pollinated |
| Eden Brothers Burst of Bloom W | Full sun | — |
| 500+ Heirloom Chrysanthemum Fl | Full sun | — |
| Home Grown 24-Variety Wildflow | Full sun | Non-GMO |
| Burpee Perennial Wildflower Se | Full sun | Non-GMO |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fall Flowers For Bees
Choosing fall flowers for bees is less about finding one perfect packet and more about matching seed type to your garden, local season, and planting plan. These factors can help you avoid buying more seed than you can grow or relying on flowers that bloom outside your local fall window.
Match Bloom Timing to Your Local Fall
“Fall-blooming” can mean different things across climates, since frost dates and growing seasons vary widely. Check the expected bloom period for each species against your region rather than assuming that a packet labeled for fall will flower at the same time everywhere. Perennials may need a longer establishment period before producing their strongest display, so they may not solve an immediate forage gap. Annuals can be quicker in some conditions, but their timing still depends on sowing date and weather. A useful plan combines species with different bloom windows instead of betting the whole garden on one late-flowering seed. For locally specific timing, use regional planting guidance or a nearby extension service.
Choose a Mix or a Single Species Deliberately
A mixed packet can spread risk across flower forms and species, but its label may not tell you how much of each seed is included or when every variety blooms. A single-species packet gives more control over the planting, making it easier to create a concentrated patch or pair one flower with plants you already grow. The tradeoff is that a single species can leave gaps if it fails to establish or finishes flowering early. Mixed seed also needs room for different plants to develop without crowding. Before buying, look for a full species list and distinguish a broad mix from a packet that only promises assorted colors. Choose based on the garden you want, not simply the number of varieties printed on the front.
Check Regional Suitability and Growing Conditions
Seed packets may not identify whether every included flower is native or well suited to your area, and those details matter for both plant success and habitat value. Check each species against local climate and gardening guidance, especially when a blend contains many varieties. Sun exposure, soil drainage, and available water can determine whether a seed mix establishes at all. A sunny, prepared bed is not interchangeable with a shady lawn or a compact container. Avoid scattering seed into dense grass or weeds without checking the packet’s site preparation advice. If the blend’s contents are unclear, a more specific regional seed selection may be a better fit than a larger, less transparent mix.
Size the Packet to the Space You Can Prepare
Seed counts can sound generous, but they do not tell you how much ground the plants will cover at mature size. Use stated coverage where available, then compare it with the area you can clear, sow, water, and maintain. Oversowing can lead to crowding and weaker growth, while spreading a small packet too thin may leave bare patches. Upright flowers such as sunflowers also need different spacing and placement from a low, mixed wildflower bed. Prepare the whole intended area before sowing rather than buying a bulk packet first and improvising afterward. For a small garden, a targeted species or smaller, clearly measured mix may be easier to manage.
Balance First-Season Flowers with Future Returns
Annuals and perennials solve different planning problems, so a packet’s label matters beyond its flower count. Annuals can add a seasonal display but generally require new sowing for another cycle, while perennials can return after establishment if conditions suit them. A mixed annual-and-perennial blend may offer a varied planting, though the plants may not all mature or flower on the same schedule. Gardeners who need blooms this autumn should check sowing guidance and expected time to flowering rather than relying on a perennial’s long-term promise. Those building a lasting pollinator bed can accept a slower start in exchange for potential repeat growth. Pairing different life cycles can spread work and flowering across seasons, but only when the planting space supports them.
Treat Bee Value as More Than a Flower Label
A “bee” or “pollinator” label is a useful prompt, not a full account of what a seed mix offers. Look for named species, bloom periods, and flower forms, then compare that information with the bees and conditions in your area. A variety of flowering plants can provide more continuity than one short burst, but a mix is only helpful if its members establish in the garden. Avoid choosing on seed quantity or color assortment alone when bloom details are missing. If bee forage is the main goal, plan flowers across spring, summer, and fall rather than expecting one fall packet to feed pollinators all year. Clear planting instructions and a transparent species list are often more useful than a dramatic seed-count claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which option makes the most sense if I want one packet for a varied fall garden?
I’d start with The Old Farmer’s Almanac 23-variety mix because its stated range gives a broader starting point than a single-species packet. Before sowing, check its species list and confirm the flowers suit your growing region and available sun. A mix does not promise that every variety will bloom in fall or establish equally well. If you need more certainty about timing, add a known late-season species such as New England aster rather than relying on the mix alone. That approach gives you diversity while keeping a focused fall anchor in the planting.
Should I pick New England aster or a mixed wildflower seed packet?
Choose New England aster if you want a focused planting and have checked that it suits your region and site. A mixed packet is a better fit when you want several flower types and can accept variation in which species thrive. Aster seeds may be easier to plan around as one named species, but they do not provide the same range as a blend. The broad mix may spread risk, though its flowering schedule can be less predictable from the label alone. For a bee garden with enough room, combining aster with a suitable mix can cover both goals.
Are high seed-count packets better for a large bee garden?
Not automatically: seed count is not the same as usable coverage. Seeds differ in size, spacing needs, and expected mature growth, and a high-count packet can still be too little or too much for a particular site. The Home Grown mix states 90,000-plus seeds, while the Bee & Butterfly mix gives a coverage estimate of 100–120 square feet; the coverage figure is more directly useful for planning a bed. Prepare the area and follow sowing rates before deciding how much seed you need. If the packet does not state coverage or planting density, check its instructions or choose one that does.
Can I sow these fall flower seeds in a small garden or container?
Some options may suit a compact garden better than others, but the listings do not provide enough information to assume every mix works in containers. Sunflowers need room and vertical clearance, while a smaller, managed patch of a suitable species may be easier to place in limited space. Check mature plant height, root space, sun needs, and sowing density before buying. Broad wildflower mixes can contain plants with different growth habits, which may be harder to manage in a pot. For containers, favor packets with clear species details and use the recommended container depth and spacing for those plants.
Will perennial seed mixes give bees flowers in the first fall after sowing?
Not necessarily. Perennials may take time to establish, and the first season’s flowering depends on the species, planting date, weather, and local growing conditions. A perennial mix can suit gardeners building a longer-term bed, but it may not fill an immediate late-season forage gap. Check each packet’s sowing guidance and expected time to bloom before relying on it for the coming fall. If near-term flowers are the priority, consider an appropriate annual or an already established flowering plant alongside the perennial plan. Keep expectations tied to the stated species and local conditions rather than the word “perennial” alone.
Conclusion
For most gardeners seeking one versatile starting point, I recommend The Old Farmer’s Almanac Premium Wildflower Seeds as best overall for its stated 23 varieties. For best value in planting area, compare the Bee & Butterfly mix’s stated 100–120-square-foot coverage with the space you can actually prepare; it gives a clearer planning reference than a seed count alone. My best premium-style choice for a more targeted, lasting planting is New England aster, provided it suits your region and you can wait for perennial establishment. Beginners may prefer a clearly labeled, diverse mix and should follow its sowing instructions rather than starting with a high-count packet. For a specific need, choose Autumn Beauty sunflowers for a taller feature or a chrysanthemum packet for a focused flower planting, after checking bloom timing and suitability. The best fit is the packet whose species, schedule, and space needs match your garden—not simply the one with the largest number of seeds.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
