Gardeners are being encouraged to plant three specific flowers this weekend to bring instant colour to their gardens. With May approaching, many enthusiasts have already filled their beds and containers with spring blooms, but there is still time to add more.
Expert Recommendations
Adam Kirtland, a gardener who shares advice on social media, has identified three plants that will provide colour throughout the entire summer. All are available as mature plants at garden centres, eliminating the need to nurture them from seeds.
"Right now is the perfect time to fill your garden with plants," Kirtland said. "I've got three must-have plants for under £5, £10, and £20."
1. Chrysanthemums (Under £5)
For a budget-friendly option, Kirtland recommends chrysanthemums, which are often available for around £4.99. These plants come in numerous colours and will bloom "right through to the very first frost," ensuring colour from summer into autumn. "This is a really simple plant to help you make a showstopping display," he added.
2. Senetti (Under £10)
For those willing to spend £10, Kirtland suggests senetti, best planted in containers rather than directly in beds. This approach yields "months of blooms." Senetti plants "thrive under neglect," making them ideal for lazy gardeners, though the RHS notes they require regular deadheading to extend flowering.
3. Geum (Under £20)
Kirtland saved the best for last with geum, a late spring flowering plant resembling buttercups. These plants have a "very special trick": if pruned back after flowering, they produce even more blooms later in summer. "If you cut them back, they'll treat you with even more flowers later on," he explained. Geums thrive in sunny positions with moist soil, but some alpine varieties prefer drier conditions, so buyers should choose accordingly.
