Now is the perfect time to start summer-ready planting, with plenty of summer flowering bulbs available to plant. If you’re new to gardening and want to create an oasis of flowers and plants this summer without hours of caring for your plants, look no further. The green-fingered experts at Bycroft share the five best low-maintenance flowers for adding a splash of color to your garden.
1. Dahlia
Dahlias are wonder plants that bees and pollinators love. They come in a range of bright colors like red, pink, purple, orange and yellow.
You can plant dahlias in a number of ways – either in large potting containers or in beds and borders.
planting position
The experts said: “Dahlias are fairly easy to care for, but thrive best in a warm and sunny site in well-draining soil that is protected from the wind.
“While dahlias are not particularly hardy when it comes to winter, it is best to dig up the tubers (tuber roots) and keep them in a greenhouse or in a shed for the colder months.”
best time to plant
The best time to plant dahlias is from mid-April to early June, after all danger of frost has passed.
care tips
Dahlias require regular deadheading to keep blooming and blooming.
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2. Lily
Lilies are popular plants that come in varieties ranging from the Asiatic lily to the Oriental lily. Plants have a stunning appearance and a delicate sweetish aroma.
planting position
The experts said: “Oriental lilies are better planted in containers because they bloom better in acidic soil, while Asiatic lilies do better in alkaline soil, making them a better choice for your garden borders.
“Lilies generally benefit from being in the sun, however, they can still thrive in areas with light shade.”
best time to plant
If you want summer flowering lilies, you won’t want to plant them after April so that they are in good time to plant.
care tips
Lilies are relatively low maintenance but do need good support as some can grow up to six feet tall. Pet owners should be aware that lilies are extremely toxic to pets and should be kept out of harm’s way.
3. Sunflower
It is a popular flower that is perfect for planting in containers and borders with children. The flower also attracts lots of wildlife from bees to birds and can add a real pop of color to a dull patio.
planting position
As their name suggests, sunflowers thrive in direct sunlight. They also like well-draining soil and shelter from the wind.
best time to plant
Plant sunflowers outdoors in late April or early May when the soil has dried out and warmed after the winter months.
Sunflowers can be planted now (March) but need to be sown indoors.
care tips
Sunflowers need regular watering to keep them hydrated and feeding with tomato feed to promote their growth.
4. Begonia
Begonias are low maintenance and brightly coloured, making them perfect for UK gardens.
Unlike other flowering plants, begonias thrive in shady conditions.
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5. Daisy
Daisies are perfect for summer gardens because they add a splash of white amid a whole host of colorful plants and are very low maintenance. Some of the most popular varieties include Bellis perennis and Gerbera daisy.
planting position
Daisies like fertile, fast-draining soil with plenty of sun and plenty of water.
best time to plant
Daisies can be planted in early spring when temperatures are rising and there is more sunlight.
care tips
Daisies need to be watered in the morning to allow the soil to dry out throughout the day and to keep it from becoming too moist.