As spring rapidly approaches, gardening enthusiasts are dusting off their trowels in anticipation of transforming their gardens into a riot of colour. With the weather gradually warming and daylight hours extending, it won’t be long before flowers burst into full bloom.
However, for those who can’t wait to see their garden flourish with vibrant hues, choosing fast-growing flowers is key. Here’s a selection of quick-to-grow blooms that you can plant now for an early display of colour.
Zinnias
Zinnias are not only available in a variety of sizes and colours but are also incredibly easy to grow. Simply scatter a handful into a flower bed or pot and watch them thrive Capable of reaching heights of up to two feet, they typically take around 65 days to mature. All they require is a spot with partial sun exposure and fertile soil.
Marigold
Marigolds are another straightforward option for those looking to grow flowers from seeds. They’re one of the few varieties that can be started indoors before being transferred outside to fully blossom.
With numerous different types all capable of reseeding themselves, marigolds can range in size from six inches to four feet and usually take about 45 days to mature. Ideal growing conditions include full sun and well-drained soil.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a quintessential symbol of spring, and surprisingly, they’re quite simple to cultivate from seeds. They can be sown directly in the garden and have the potential to tower up to nine feet tall – so it’s wise to know what you’re planting to avoid any ‘giant’ surprises. Do remember that sunflowers need a good amount of water. They take between 70 to 100 days to mature and require full sunlight, fertile soil with good drainage, and regular watering to bloom fully.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are another easy-to-grow flower. All you need are containers about three to four inches deep and a few seeds per pot. These flowers, known for their high germination rate, produce the best blossoms in full sun. Plus, they’re edible!
Adding these to your spring garden could bring a new flavour to your meals. Described as having a ‘peppery-like’ taste, they’re often used in salads. They grow between one to three feet tall and take around 60 days to mature. Just ensure they get plenty of sun and have well-drained soil.
Petunias
Petunias are also a great choice for spring gardening. Renowned for their long flowering season and ability to flourish throughout most of the summer, they make perfect additions to your gardens. They’re typically placed near walls or in hanging baskets and come in a variety of colours. This extraordinary flower thrives in partial to full sunlight, requires moderate watering and prefers well-drained soil. It typically takes around 90 days to mature. However, it’s important to regularly deadhead the spent blooms to promote further growth.
Spider Flower
Spider Flower, once seen, immediately reveals why it is named after the arachnid. Renowned for its musky sweet aroma, these flowers are easy to cultivate from seeds and make excellent cut flowers. The blooms can grow up to eight inches and usually take about 75 days to mature. They require full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Nigella
Nigella damascene, commonly known as love-in-mist, grows steadily throughout spring and begins blooming in early summer. These pastel flowers, which are both edible and attractive to pollinators, typically take 90 days to mature. They flourish in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade, provided they have well-drained soil.
