The new planting season is here, and eager gardeners are looking to refresh their outdoor space. Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, is sharing his must-plant spring favourites for colourful blooms and fragrant flowers. With the soil warming up and the days getting brighter there are plenty of options when it comes to spring planting. Marigolds are great for instant colour that can be enjoyed right from the start of spring all the way through until the summer.
If you’re looking for something more rewarding, then opt for spring bulbs such as dahlias and begonias, which will bloom in summer after your patience and care have paid off. Those looking for a more low-maintenance option should go for perennials such as coneflowers and Shasta daisies, which are both hardy and will return each year.
Remember that timing is key, and with British weather being unpredictable, you’ll want to keep an eye on the temperatures and watch out for any frosty spells throughout the season.
With many of these flowers, you’ll ideally want to wait until the last frost has passed before planting.
If we experience low temperatures during spring, be sure to give your plants the proper care by adding mulch for an extra layer of warmth, covering them with a frost cloth, and moving any potted plants to a warmer space.
What to plant in spring
Dahlia tubers
If you’re looking for gorgeous summer blooms then don’t skip planting spring bulbs in the coming weeks. You can start planting these indoors in pots from March or April and move them outside once the frost has passed in May. Dahlias need well-drained soil in a sunny sheltered area.
Begonia tubers
Other spring bulbs to plant for the summer are begonias. These offer a beautiful aromatic scent that fills the air and complements its giant rose-like blooms. They thrive in dry, wet and windy summers making them popular for UK gardeners. To make the most out of this plant, consider placing it in hanging baskets, tubs and planters where the blooms can cascade down the side.
Echinacea, Coneflowers
Wildlife lovers will want to get some coneflowers in their garden this season to attract some butterflies. These flowers provide gorgeous shades of reds, yellows and oranges. They’re also hardy and can withstand frost and droughts.
Shasta Daisies
These bright white flowers are easy to grow and will provide you with flowers over a longer period. Shasta daisies work well as part of borders, they aren’t fussy about soil type but they do need to be in a sheltered spot.
Marigolds
Get some instant vibrant colour ready for the summer with marigolds. These gorgeous yellow and orange blooms look great as part of a bright and vibrant display. They thrive in a warm, sunny spot and will require regular watering, especially during dry conditions.