I have a border between some steps going down to our backyard and the lawn which I typically plant out with annuals. I am not the best at direct-seeding, but would like to give it a try this year. I live in Zone 8, Pacific Northwest. Our last frost is usually mid-April although this year seems to be milder all around so who knows. I have gathered the following seeds, which I'd like to mix together and sow at the same time (mixing all up with some sand): California poppy mixed colors, dwarf zinnia Thumbelina, short snapdragons mixed colors, and migonette. I've had CA poppies, field poppies and calendula in the past and they will all reseed themselves as well. When would be the best time to scatter this mixed seed? Or should I separate them into groups? The hope is for season-long color. Any other suggestions for easy-care, low-mid growing annuals would also be appreciated. Oh, I do have some early snowdrops and reseeding forget-me-nots in that bed as well. Couple photos below, first is in early spring (the tree at the foot died and is not there anymore. The second shows a year with a bunch of field poppies taking over the bed. I also need to work with the crocosmia Lucifer in the upper bed which can be jarring, so bright is better than pale. Thanks!
