key growing information

How to Grow 'Beneficial Insect Flower Mix'

How to grow a flower seed mix for beneficial insects: site preparation, broadcasting and raking in seed, sowing times, sun and soil, and seeding rates.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Beneficial Insect Flower Mix - Key Growing Information

A planting of Beneficial Attractant Mix, with annual and perennial flowers that sustain a variety of beneficial insect species.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Allow 10–28 days at 65–75°F (18–24°C).

SOWING:

Sow directly. Start with a field or bed cleared of weeds, scatter the mix evenly across it, then rake lightly and press the seed in so it makes firm contact with the soil, no more than 1/8" deep. Keep the area moist until seedlings appear. Timing: sow in late spring, early summer or late fall. For a fall sowing, wait until the soil is too cold for seed to sprout (below 40ºF/4.4ºC) so it lies dormant until spring.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun.

PLANT HEIGHT:

4–48", depending on the species in the mix.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Ordinary soil with good drainage.

USES:

Naturalized plantings in beds and field margins.

SEEDING RATES:

One packet (about 500 seeds) covers a 75–100' row or 5–10 sq. ft.; 7 oz. covers 1,000 sq. ft.; 9–18 lb. per acre. Choose the heavier rate for the most color, or when you can't fully prepare the soil or control weeds.