Something you may not know about me is my love for fresh flowers, especially when they’re growing in the garden. I’m currently living in a flat but I’m lucky to have beautiful grounds which are filled with flowers by the time spring and summer come ’round. On my 30 before 30 list I decided I wanted to learn the name of 30 new (to me) flowers before I hit my 30th birthday – next April. With my research I’ve also been learning about the best times to plant various bulbs and it’s encouraged me to get out and about in the garden more often.
Although I don’t have the chance to get out in the garden when I’m in Sheffield I do manage to when I’m in Cambridge. My mum knows a lot about gardening so I’m keen to learn as much as I can from her. For those of you who don’t know, I currently spend my time between the two cities.
We’ve had a strange, long-drawn out winter which makes the sight of colourful spring flowers even better. I’m looking forward to BBQ season and along with comfortable garden furniture, delicious food and good company there needs to be beautiful flowers.
It’s no secret that I love daffodils and tulips. To ensure your garden is filled with them early next spring be sure to plant them around September/October time, just before the first frost. Tulips can be left a little later so aim for October/November. Make sure you plant both of these bulbs where they can get a good dose of sunshine. My mum and I decided to plant tulips and daffodils in pots this year so they could be moved around easily. If you fancy trying this then plant the tulips lower down in the flowerpot and then the daffodils 5cm in a layer above so they gather together to make a beautiful spring display.
Today I’ve partnered with Tesco to share my favourite flowers to sow in May (how is it May already?) and see them grow in time for summer. Although you must keep the current weather in mind. In Cambridge and Sheffield we’ve had sudden bursts of snow and hail!
– Sunflowers: These are my personal favourite. Wait ’til this cold weather has passed and then sow the seeds in an area where you get lots of sunshine. Don’t forget that they need a lot of room.
– Marigolds: As soon as this cold weather has passed find a sunny space in your garden to sow the seeds. It won’t be long ’til you see the colourful flowers. I recently learnt that these are also edible, have you ever eaten a flower?
– Californian Poppy: I had to get a Poppy into the list. The ones I’ve used before have been bright orange, a very cheerful and summery colour. Find a sun filled spot and plant them asap.
– Nasturtium: Sow the seeds of these beauties any time ’til early June. Not only do they look pretty but you can also eat them. Ideal for adding something extra to your foodie Instagram shots.
– Sweet Peas: Sow the seeds this May and you’ll be sure to see flowers by summer. Look for a colour mix of seeds, they’re the prettiest and most garden centres have them.
Let me know if you’ve enjoyed this post. I’ve still got a lot to learn but I’d love to share more about flowers and gardening over the next couple of months.
What will you be planting this season?