Most wildflowers prefer full sun, but some can grow in either full sun or partial shade, including such species as Black-eyed Susan, Crimson Clover, Lanced-Leaf Coreopsis, Mexican Hat and Standing Cypress.

Most wildflowers have a wide tolerance of soils and pH (acid/alkaline) conditions. Bluebonnets (Lupinus texensis) prefer a well-drained calcareous (alkaline) soil, such as that of central Texas.

All wildflower seeds need moisture for germination and growth, but it is important to provide proper drainage. Moisture and drainage requirements vary according to species. Some types of wildflowers, such as Clasping Coneflower and Plains Coreopsis can tolerate wet or dry soil conditions and some, like the Bluebell Gentian, prefer moist areas.

Germination will vary from species to species and also from seed to seed within the same species. The germination period may range from as little as several days to as much as several years.