Garden experts have revealed five fast-growing pink perennials to plant in April to fill your garden with instant colour.

One of my favourite parts of spring is watching my garden border ideas bloom into life. As this year’s garden trends have emphasised the benefits of a vibrant and colourful garden, we’re seeing a real desire for colour in our flower beds.

If you’re a fan of pretty pink flowers, you’ve definitely landed on the right page, as these fast-blooming perennials are perfect for adding a splash of pink colour to your garden as we head into the warmer months.

1. Peonies

How could we not begin with peonies? These dramatic, showy blooms are an obvious favourite amongst gardeners, and while growing peonies can sometimes be a little tricky, we think they are definitely worth it.

‘When Peonies are planted in spring, they can establish very quickly. They produce beautiful pink blooms that tend to be on the large side. I recommend planting them in full sun or partial shade, and they need free-draining, fertile soil. They also should be sheltered away from particularly strong winds,’ explains Richard Barker, gardening expert at LBS Horticulture.

Where to buy

• Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt', £5.99, Crocus
• Tree Peony 'Pink', £22.99, Thompson & Morgan
• Paeonia 'Coral Charm', £7.79, Crocus

2. Bleeding hearts

If you’re looking to add impact, this whimsical cottage garden plant is perfect. And guess what! It thrives in damp, shady gardens.

‘April is the sweet spot for planting these. They have a very high 'wow factor' for such a reliable grower. The way those perfectly formed pink hearts dangle from arching stems adds a bit of old-school charm to a shady corner. They have their growth spurt early on in the year, so planting now means you get to enjoy that elegant look while the rest of the garden is still waking up,’ comments Liam Clearly, gardening expert at Old Railway Line Garden Centre.

Where to buy

• Dicentra spectabilis (Lamprocapnos) - Bleeding Heart plant, £7.99, Gardening Express
• Lamprocapnos spectabilis, £7.99, Crocus
• 3 x Dicentra spectabilis Bare Root - Classic Pink & White Bleeding Heart, £15.28, B&Q

3. Coneflowers

You’ll be pleased to know that coneflowers are a perennial that thrives on neglect, so they are suitable for the most novice of gardeners. These beautiful flowers bloom in rich, pink tones, so if you like brighter pinks, this is a flower for you.

‘These are great border plants, and bloom in pink. They'll establish themselves quite quickly and should return every year with the right care. Coneflowers are also loved by bees, so have a positive impact on their immediate environment. If you're planting Coneflower, then I recommend planting in a sunny location that has well-draining soil,’ says Richard.

Where to buy

• Echinacea Delicious Candy ('Noortdeli') (PBR), £11.99, Crocus
• Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus', £4.99, J. Parkers
• Echinacea 'Butterfly Kisses', £11.99, Crocus

4. Phlox

Creeping phlox is a popular choice as they are excellent at surprising weeds and has a surprisingly calming effect due to its sweet, soft scent and gentle colourways. Liam recommends ‘McDaniel's Cushion' because of its beautiful colour.

‘I love this for the sheer intensity of its colour. It’s a low-grower, but it moves quickly and forms a solid cushion of evergreen foliage. When it hits its stride in late spring, it practically disappears under spurts of vibrant pink flowers. It’s the perfect choice for softening the edges of a path or a stone wall, turning a hard boundary into something soft and glowing in no time at all,’ says Liam.

Where to buy

• Phlox 'Opening Act Ultrapink', £9.59, Crocus
• Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum', £19.99, Thompson & Morgan
• Phlox paniculata Bright Eyes, £5.99, J. Parkers

5. Geraniums

Both Richard and Liam recommend geraniums if you want to add a burst of pink to your garden this summer.

Richard recommends Cranesbill Geraniums, stating: ‘These are hardy geraniums that produce pink blooms from later on in spring and into the summer. They thrive in partial shade and can spread incredibly fast, and are also very low maintenance.’

Meanwhile, Liam is a fan of Geranium macrorrhizum 'Bevan's Variety'.

‘For anyone dealing with a patch of bare earth they want covered quickly, this hardy geranium is my go-to. It’s a fantastic spreader that creates a dense, aromatic carpet of foliage topped with deep magenta-pink flowers. It doesn't just sit there; it actively claims its space, which is exactly what you want if you're trying to crowd out weeds. Plus, the scent of the leaves when you brush past them is incredible,’ he says.

Where to buy

• Geranium macrorrhizum 'Bevan's Variety', £7.99, Crocus
• Geranium 'Patricia', £4.99, J. Parkers
• Geranium 'Jackpot Candyfloss' Mix, £5.99, Thompson & Morgan

Will you be using the bank holiday to fill your garden with pretty pink perennials?

Perennials are plants that return year after year for more than two years, good examples are echinacea, lavender and hellebores. If you have a couple already in your garden, one of the smartest hacks to double the amount of plants in your garden borders for free is to divide them.

At this time of year, you can split a good patch of the best perennials and plant them elsewhere. It really is worth doing as it won't cost you a penny, just some time in the garden separating and replanting – and it's one of the best things you can do with perennials in March.

'When your perennials become a bit overcrowded, you can split the roots of a mature plant and replant the divisions elsewhere in the garden. It’s a great way to fill empty spaces without spending any money,' explains Nick Wood, horticulturist at Gardening Express.

'Flowering perennials will add a burst of colour through the warmer months, while ornamental grasses provide a lush green backdrop with texture and movement, ' adds Nick.

I've rounded up the 5 perennials you can divide now to fill your garden borders with colour and texture, ready for the warmer months.

1. Delphinium

Delphiniums are a beautiful variety to grow in your garden, especially if you love cottage garden plants. They are classed as hardy herbaceous perennials and love cooler conditions with well-drained soil.

They come in many beautiful colours, ranging from sky blues to lilac and pink and can grow tall, making them ideal for placing at the back of your borders to add height and drama.

Nick Hamilton, owner of Barnsdale Gardens says, 'Some plants I divide in March because they don’t like the winter wet, particularly on our heavy Rutland clay, delphinium are one of these. So, by waiting until their shoots appear above ground in March means that we get the most plants out of each clump but, more importantly, they are growing and therefore able to cope with any spring wetness.'

If you want to buy some delphinium plants to get started, have a look at Crocus's delphinium 'Astolat Group', which has lovely tall spires in blush to deep pink flowers, a 9cm pot is £9.99.

2. Geraniums

There's something very nostalgic about geraniums, they have that particular scent that can take you back to your childhood and time spent in grandparents' gardens. Often in bold shades of white and red, geraniums are easy to care for and well worth having.

'One of my top five picks is the hardy geranium,' says Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres. 'Lift on a dry day with two garden forks back-to-back for tough roots, tease into sections with roots and shoots, then replant at the same depth in enriched soil, watering well and mulching to retain moisture.'

If you don't have any geraniums already, try Thompson & Morgan's geranium hardy mix, you can buy five bare root plants in five different varieties for £49.95. You can successfully grow geraniums from seeds too if you prefer.

3. Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily)

This perennial looks rather like a lily, and they can come in bright shades like orange, red and pink. Speckled or striped 'throats' are common too. They love sunny well-drained garden spots and work exceptionally well as cut flowers, plant them alongside other great varieties that work in vases – you often see them in supermarkets as they are very long lasting.

'Alstroemeria is a variety I would always consider, ' says Nick Hamilton. 'The newer varieties are expensive so dividing them when the new shoots are just visible, at the back end of March, I find to be the most economical way.'

4. Chrysanthemums

There's something about chrysanthemums that make you smile, their good sized heads with their ruffly petals in vibrant colours are something to behold in your garden.

Hardy garden varieties are the best type as they can survive a winter. They love full sun and well-drained soil, so remember that if you're planting afresh – chrysanthemums are easy to grow. A big favourite for borders as they offer such a punchy look, we love J. Parker's chrysanthemum hardy mums mixed selection which can be bought in a pack of 6 for £11.99.

When dividing them up make sure you replant 18-24 inches apart to give them breathing room.

5. Bleeding Heart

'The Bleeding Heart (Dicentra) has been renamed and is now called Lamprocapnos,' explains Nick Hamilton. 'I like to divide these just as the shoots begin to show in March because I can then be very precise with my cutting and dividing to maximise the number of new plants I get.'

This eye-catching perennial is native to North America and is know for its 'heart' shaped flowers. Classed as a clump-forming variety it can grow up to 1 metre tall and produces fleshy mid green leaves. It particularly likes woodland areas in partial to full shade and flowers from spring to around June. Add some other shade-loving plants at the same time. Dicentra is one of our Gardens Editor's favourite cottage garden plants.

To get your hands on this unusual border plant, have a look at J. Parker's Dicentra spectabilis, from £8.99 for a pack of 3.

Dividing plant essentials

Follow our guide to our favourite perennial plants to divide up this March, and your borders will be looking fabulous – for free! At the same time, if you have the budget, you can also plant more perennials in March that come back every year.

I’ve noticed a lot of gardeners wondering when to cut back agapanthus in recent weeks, and if you’re gearing up to trim the plants pretty soon, you’re bang on the money.

Knowing when to deadhead agapanthus is one thing, but it’s best to cut the plants right back for the final time in late autumn, when they’ve finished flowering. There’s an art to timing it just right, though, and you mustn’t jump the gun.

Plus, it depends on the type of agapanthus you’re growing: deciduous or evergreen. One will benefit from being cut back, while the other is best left alone. To find out which is which, I spoke to the experts.

What you'll need

• An agapanthus plant, like Agapanthus ‘Midnight Star’, from £13.99 at Crocus
• A pair of secateurs, like Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Advantage Bypass Secateurs, £9.99 at Amazon
• Garden tool cleaner, like Agralan Citrox Natural Disinfectant Spray, £11.99 at Amazon
• A garden trug, like the Draper Garden Caddy, £34.11 at Amazon

When to cut back deciduous agapanthus

If your agapanthus loses its leaves over the colder months, it’s deciduous. Cutting it back is actually one of the best things you can do with agapanthus after it's finished flowering, but for the plant to grow back strong next year, you’ll need to wait until the foliage has died right down.

‘If there are still green leaves, you need to leave these in place, as they will be feeding energy back to the roots, ready to start growing again the following year,’ explains Lucie Bradley, gardening and greenhouse expert from Easy Garden Irrigation.

Once the leaves have completely yellowed, they’re no longer of use to the rest of the plant, and they, along with the stems, can be cut to the base. Just remember to clean your garden tools between pruning sessions, and use a pair of reliable secateurs to make the job easier.

October and November are the target months for cutting back agapanthus, but don't just go by the calendar; yellow leaves are the best indicator.

When to cut back evergreen agapanthus

If you’re wondering when to cut back evergreen agapanthus (like Agapanthus ‘Fireworks’ from Thompson & Morgan), the short answer is that you, well, shouldn’t.

‘These varieties keep their leaves all year, and cutting them right back can do more harm than good,’ warns Elise Harlock, flower expert at Prestige Flowers.

‘Instead, wait until early spring and remove only the tatty or damaged leaves, leaving the rest in place to keep the crown protected through winter.’

So, it’s best to leave evergreen agapanthus alone at this point in the year, until the spring, when you can give the some light TLC.

A little extra winter protection can go a long way, though. Lucie recommends protecting the plants from frost with mulch by adding a layer of compost, bark or straw around the base.

RocketGro Magic Mulch from Amazon, is a brilliant peat-free choice. You could even protect them with a layer of horticultural fleece, like these plant jackets from B&Q, to be on the safe side.

The rules around cutting back agapanthus depend on the type. If it's deciduous, wait until later in the autumn, when all of the foliage has yellowed. If you're growing evergreen agapanthus, though, keep the secateurs well away this year.

There is more power in unity than division… except when it comes to your garden! In fact, learning which perennials to divide in September is the key to a thriving outdoor space.

Learning how to divide perennials is a great way to fill your flowerbeds with the best perennial plants for free. Dividing is essentially a form of propagation where you dig up the whole plant and separate it at the roots. Every plant needs to be divided differently depending on its root type, with some being split with a knife and others with a garden fork.

Dividing herbaceous perennials is one of the easiest and most rewarding autumn jobs. It keeps plants vigorous, prevents overcrowding, and gives you free plants to spread around your garden.

'September is a good time because perennials won’t have entered dormancy yet, so they recover quickly,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

September and October are the perfect months to divide some perennials thanks to warm soil and regular rainfall, but not all of them. These are the ones that you should be focusing on in September.

Still, it's only worth doing if you're going to do it right, so it's important to read up on which perennials to divide in September before you get started.

Which perennials to divide in September

'It's a good rule of thumb to divide summer flowering perennials in autumn, and tackle spring bloomers just after they've flowered in the summer,' says Christopher O'Donoghue, professional gardener and director of Gardens Revived.

This means, then, that the following perennials are all good candidates for dividing in September...

• Daylilies - use two garden forks to divide the root mass.
• Hostas - when dividing hostas, use a sharp, clean knife to cut through the roots.
• Bearded irises - bearded irises should be divided every three to five years using a sharp knife.
• Peonies - you can propagate peonies through division by using a sharp spade to cut the root into pieces with three to five 'eyes'.
• Phlox paniculata - to divide, cut around the root ball with a sharp spade.
• Rudbeckia - every three to five years, dig up and divide into small clumps.

Asters and echinacea are all good perennials to divide in September, too. However, Christopher notes that you should delay work on 'anything flowering now, as you'll losing late-season colour and stressing the plant before winter'.

This means that you should stay your hand when it comes to sedums or heleniums if you want to avoid disrupting their display. Spring, when the soil is dry enough to work, will work just as well.

Of course, there is one caveat to all of this; if it's a particularly wet autumn, you'll likely be better off waiting until the springtime.

What you'll need

As anyone who's ever tried this budget-friendly garden idea before will tell you, the equipment you need is entirely dependent on the perennials you're working with.

Still, as a general rule of thumb, it's a good idea to have the following to hand...

• A garden fork, such as Burgon & Ball's RHS Stainless Steel Hand Fork with Wood Handle from John Lewis
• A garden knife, like the Hori hori with canvas sheath from Crocus
• A pair of garden gloves, try the Burgon & Ball Flora Brite Nylon Pink Gardening Gloves from B&Q

What are the easiest perennials to divide?

Clump-forming perennials (of the non-woody variety) are usually the easiest to divide as the process is basically designed for them! Think salvia, sedum, and phlox, to name just three. You'll find it much simpler to work on those plants that have been established for a few years, too.

And just like that, you know which perennials to divide in September. Just be sure to 'give plants a thorough water after dividing and replanting,' advises Morris.

'Remember: dividing perennials doesn’t just create new plants – it’s an investment in the overall health and longevity of your garden,' he adds.

And just like that, we're feeling inspired. Here's hoping the rain holds off long enough for us to get to work, eh?

A huge number of plants are set to finish blooming over the coming months, and soon, it’ll be time to figure out what to do with agapanthus after flowering.

Of course, there's the question of whether or not you should deadhead agapanthus, but it can be tricky to know which steps to take after your plants have totally stopped flowering for the year. Cut them back? Leave them be?

As it turns out, the type of agapanthus you’re growing will determine what you should do with it after it’s finished flowering. Deciduous agapanthus is more common, but there are evergreen species, too.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about looking after agapanthus, deciduous or otherwise, in September and October.

1. Deadhead

If you’re wondering what to do with agapanthus after flowering, deadheading is one of the earlier steps – and late summer and early autumn are often the best times to deadhead agapanthus. A sharp pair of garden snips, like the Kent & Stowe Eversharp Garden Snips, now £15.99 at Amazon, can make the task smooth and enjoyable. It's worth investing in a pair of garden gloves, too, because agapanthus is toxic.

‘Make sure you deadhead the faded flowers by snipping off any spent areas above the next set of healthy leaves,’ advises Elise Harlock, flower expert at Prestige Flowers. ‘This not only tidies up the plant but also prevents it from putting energy into seed production, which can result in fewer flowers appearing in the future.’

If you’re a fan of the way the seedheads look, you don’t have to deadhead them straight away.

'The definite rule is to deadhead agapanthus promptly after flowering, but I prefer to hold off on this slightly as I quite like the architectural look of the seedheads,’ says David Glass, head gardener at Bowood House and Gardens. ‘If the seedhead stems are still standing up and looking healthy, it's fine to leave them for a little while longer.

‘At the very latest, I tend to deadhead agapanthus in late summer or early autumn before they start to actually seed.’

2. Cut the plants back

There are some plants you should never prune in autumn, but agapanthus isn’t one of them – in fact, cutting them back is key to conserving their energy for next year. You'll just need a pair of secateurs like the WOLF-Garten Bypass Secateurs, which are £24.99 at Amazon.

You’ll need to make sure you’re growing a deciduous variety first, though, and always wait until the foliage has yellowed and started to die back naturally.

‘Cut back deciduous agapanthus to ground level in autumn after flowering,’ says David.

Until the foliage has died back, a little extra TLC can go a long way to boosting your plants’ health.

‘Continue watering your plant regularly while the foliage is still green, and remember to feed it with fertiliser every few weeks to build up strength for next year,’ advises Elise.

You don't need to cut back evergreen species, though. 'If you have evergreen agapanthus in the garden, you should leave the foliage alone, as evergreen agapanthus remains green all winter long,' David explains.

3. Consider dividing overgrown plants

If you know how to divide perennials, you’ve already got a valuable skill up your sleeve – and early autumn, when it's finished flowering, is the ideal time to divide agapanthus, especially if your plants are looking particularly root-bound.

‘If you’re growing agapanthus in a pot, autumn is a good time of year to check whether it’s become overcrowded,’ says Elise.

‘They actually like to be a bit pot-bound, but if you notice roots circling the base or the soil drying out too quickly, consider dividing the plant to give it more space to grow.’

A garden knife like the Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Hori Hori Multi-Tool, £19.95 at Amazon, can make this task easier.

FAQs

Should agapanthus seedheads be removed?

Some annual flowers don't need deadheading, and actually, leaving the seedheads on the plant can benefit wildlife - but perennial agapanthus can, and should, be deadhead.

'Agapanthus seedheads should be removed to stop the self-seeding process,' explains Bowood's head gardener, David. 'If the seedheads are left on the plant for too long, it causes weed agapanthus to form, which becomes invasive in some soils. The weeds are very difficult to manage and can disrupt the garden.'

Agapanthus is one of the best drought-tolerant plants for pots and borders, and knowing what to do with the plants after flowering will encourage the blooms to bounce back every year.

The end of summer is drawing near, and you might well be thinking it’s too late to plant anything new outdoors. But that’s not the case - if you want to bring some colour to your garden that will see you into the new season and beyond, there are still plenty of autumn flowering perennials to plant in August.

‘August is a great time to plant certain perennials if you want to keep your garden colourful well into autumn,’ says David Denyer, flower and garden expert at Eflorist. 'The soil is still warm, which helps roots settle in quickly, and the cooler evenings reduce the stress on new plants compared to the consistently higher temperatures in June and July.’

​​’When planting, make sure to water plants in well and keep an eye on them for the next few weeks while they settle in,’ adds David. ‘And if we get a late summer heatwave, simply add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and protect the roots.’

These are the best perennials you should consider planting now to ensure a colourful autumnal display.

1. Heleniums

‘Sun-loving heleniums add an abundance of colour to beds and borders, bursting from mid-summer through into autumn,’ says Charles Carr, Head of Nurseries at Hillier Garden Centres. ‘There are hundreds of varieties to choose from, from hot yellows and reds to vibrant oranges.’

‘They are long-flowering, easy to grow and thrive in most soil types, preferring full sun. They can grow to be quite big, so taller varieties may benefit from staking. Regular deadheading as they finish flowering will encourage future growth and longer spells of colour into autumn,’ adds Charles.

Where to buy heleniums:

• Thompson & Morgan: Try the vibrant Helenium 'Mardi Gras', from £14.99, for late season colour.
• Crocus: Or go for the bold yellow and orange tones of Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy', from £13.99.

2. Heliopsis

‘Heliopsis, or “fake sunflowers” are another great choice for late-summer planting,’ says Charles Carr. ‘Available in a range of heights from 40cm to 2m, with three-inch double or single flowers of beautiful yellows and oranges, surrounding golden centre cones. They not only make impressive, colourful features in borders and bed ideas, attracting an array of pollinators but can also make for lovely cut flowers too.’

‘They grow in clumps with branching stems that give a bushy habit, and the flowering period is between six and eight weeks. To encourage buds to form, deadhead any spent flowers,’ advises Charles.

Where to buy heliopsis :

• J. Parkers: Go for the bold orange blooms of Heliopsis helianthoides Bleeding Hearts, from £6.99.
• Dobies: Or the bushy orange-red flowers of Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Funky Spinner', £29.99.

3. Japanese anemones

Japanese anemones are a great late perennial with tall, airy stems crowned by soft-petalled flowers in white or pink,’ says Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres. ‘They flourish in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, and are perfect for those trickier, less sunny areas of your garden. Once planted, try not to disturb them too much as they prefer to settle in and stay put.’

‘Japanese Anemones boast cup-shaped pink or white flowers on the top of tall stems and can spread rapidly so can be a great means of filling borders,’ adds Charles Carr. ‘Stems can grow anything between 50 and 150cm. They produce bountiful blooms with up to 30 flowers per corm being possible. They have a blooming season of six to eight weeks so add colour when many other perennials are beginning to die back.’

Where to buy Japanese anemones:

• Crocus: For a plant with masses of pink flowers, try Anemone × hybrida 'Königin Charlotte', from £11.99.
• Gardening Express: Or go for the pretty all-white Anemone Honorine Jobert - Japanese Anemone in Bud & Bloom, £7.97.

4. Asters

‘Now is also a good time to plant asters, which bring cheerful colour from late summer through to autumn,’ says Julian Palphramand. ‘Plant them where they’ll get plenty of light but won’t dry out, and keep the soil moist for the best flowers. Taller varieties sometimes need support, but otherwise, they’re easy-going and will reward you with weeks of blooms.’

‘Asters prefer full sun and well-drained soil,’ adds David Denyer, ‘so you’ll get the best blooms by planting them in a bright, open spot.’

And as a way of getting more plants when fully established, asters are a perennial that can be divided, so a great way of saving money later on.

Where to buy asters:

• Gardening Express: Add colour with the violet-purple daisy-like blooms of Aster Purple Dome Michaelmas Daisy, £7.99.
• Suttons: Or try the low-growing early-flowering Aster alpinus miexed, £19.99.

5. Echinacea

‘Echinacea (also called coneflower) is a reliable favourite to plant now that produces big, daisy-like flowers in pink, purple, or white, attracting lots of butterflies and bees,’ suggests Julian Palphramand. ‘All it asks for is a sunny spot and some decent, well-drained soil, and it can handle dry spells once established, so you won’t need to fuss over it.’

Echinacea are a resilient, low-maintenance perennial that can thrive on neglect and make a great flower for filling garden beds, borders and even containers.

Where to buy echinacea:

• Thompson & Morgan: Bees and butterflies will love the multicoloured Echinacea purpurea 'Primadonna Mixed', from £19.99.
• Primrose: Or try the soft purple tones of Echinacea Purpurea Magnus, from £7.99.

6. Rudbeckia

‘Rudbeckia is a great choice to plant now and add to your August gardening jobs,’ says David Denyer. ‘Like Japanese anemones, echinacea and asters, they all naturally bloom later in the season, so they’re perfect for adding fresh colour to your garden just as it typically begins to fade.’

'Rudbeckia prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so you’ll get the best blooms by planting them in a bright, open spot,’ adds David. ‘And getting these perennial plants in the ground now means they’ll establish well and come back strong next year, adding even more colour.’

Where to buy rudbeckia:

• Suttons: This variety called Rudbeckia 'All Sorts Mixed', from £6.99, will include spectacular doubles, singles, quilled types
• J. Parker's: Or go for the popular yellow Black Eyed Susans or Rudbeckia Goldsturmm from £7.99.

7. Crocosmia

‘Crocosmia come in a range of hot summer colours from orange to yellow and red that are brilliant for providing autumn colour,’ says Charles Carr. ‘They are a fantastic way of adding both height and colour and can be planted in conjunction with mid-height plants such as Lychnis ‘Jenny,’ Sidalcea ‘Elsie Heugh’ and Peonies in front of them, then with low-growing plants such as Geranium, Erigeron ‘Kew Profusion’ and Dianthus, at the front of the border.

‘Crocosmia grow from corms, planted around 8cm deep like bulbs and require fertile, moist but well-drained soil,’ adds Charles. ‘To avoid clumping, plant crocosmia a few centimetres apart then divide every three to five years to encourage better flowering.’

Where to buy crocosmia:

• Thompson & Morgan: The stunning deep red flowers of Crocosmia 'Lucifer', from £9.99, will create a blaze of colour.
• Amazon: Or try a variety of colours with Crocosmia Large Flowering Mix, £5.99.

8. Salvias

'Salvias are great August perennials to plant and produce spikes of deep, vibrant flowers that pollinators flock to,’ advises Julian Palphramand. ‘They like light, well-drained soil, and once you plant them in a sunny spot sheltered from cold winds, they are pretty drought-tolerant and will thrive with very little effort. Just avoid over-watering and they’ll do well.’

Where to buy salvias:

• J. Parkers: The vibrant purple Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna', from £11.99, is suitable for planting in sunny or partially shaded spots.
• Crocus: Or go for the softer pink tones of Salvia nemorosa Caradonna Pink Inspiration, from £9.99.

What you'll need to plant perennials

Before planting your perennials prepare the soil first, removing any weeds and loosening the earth. Dig a hole as deep and wide as the plant’s root ball, gently remove your plant from its container and tease out any circling roots before placing it in the hole.

Ensure the stem part of the plant is above the soil surface then backfill with soil and pack down firmly before watering. Adding a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

‘Perennials like these are all easy to grow and require low maintenance,’ says Charles Carr. ‘They’ll require watering well while they establish, and occasional deadheading as required to extend the blooms. And mulching in winter is also recommended to aid growth the following season.’

Planning ahead and planting perennials now will give your garden another round of colour when autumn comes. Planting perennials and cutting back perennials in August are just two of the must-do tasks to add to the gardening check list...what will you be doing?

August is the height of summer and the time when many of us are outside non-stop enjoying our gardens and making the most of the sunshine. But if your flowers and plants are looking past their best and starting to flag, knowing which perennials to cut back in August for a flush of autumn flowers will ensure that your garden is soon looking tip-top again.

‘Cutting back some long-flowering perennials in August is a great way to keep your borders looking fresh and, in many cases, encourage a second round of blooms as we head into early autumn,’ says David Denyer, flower and garden expert at Eflorist.

‘At this point in the growing season, many perennials have already put on their main show of flowers and start to look a bit tired or leggy. Cutting them back now with sharp secateurs helps redirect the plant’s energy toward producing new shoots and flower buds, giving you a second wind of colour before the colder months arrive,’ advises Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres.

These are the particular ones you should turn your attention to now to ensure a flush of autumnal flowers.

1. Lupins

With their tall spikes of colourful upright flowers, lupins look stunning in full bloom and make a fabulous feature in garden border ideas offering height and structure to the space.

In late summer though, lupins can start to fade, with the vibrant colours losing their intensity and the flowers starting to wilt and droop.

‘When it comes to cutting back perennials in August, lupins benefit from cutting just above the healthy buds,’ advises Julian. ‘This is so that the plant knows where to grow next and can produce fresh blooms.’

Where to buy lupins:

• Thompson & Morgan: Try the multi-coloured Lupin 'Gallery' from £9.99.
• Crocus: Or go for the bold all-red Lupinus 'Beefeater', from £12.99.

2. Delphiniums

Another upright flowering perennial that looks brilliant in flower bed ideas or a cottage garden scheme, delphiniums typically tend to flower from spring to early summer, but can bloom again in late summer or autumn if cut back after the initial flowering.

‘For delphiniums and salvias, you don’t need to cut them all the way to the ground,’ advises David, ‘but you should remove the faded flowering stems and trim back to healthy growth points lower down.’

Where to buy delphiniums:

• Sarah Raven: Go for the pretty pale blue Delphinium border collection, £29.95.
• Thompson & Morgan: Or mix up your border scheme with the colourful Delphinium 'Pacific Giants Mixed', from £9.99.

3. Hardy geraniums (cranesbill)

Hardy geraniums (commonly known as cranesbill geraniums) have masses of saucer-shaped flowers that range in colour from purple, mauve and pink to white. Super-easy to grow, hardy geraniums need very little looking after and make excellent ground cover plants as they spread very easily.

While hardy geraniums have a fairly long flowering season, they can get a little straggly and overgrown by mid-summer, so cutting them back in August is a great way of encouraging a second flush of blooms.

‘Cranesbill geraniums like a very hard prune, right down near the base, which might seem drastic, but it encourages fast rejuvenation and new flowers to appear quickly,’ says Julian.

Where to buy hardy geraniums:

• Suttons: The ever-popular Geranium 'Rozanne', from £7.99, makes a brilliant ground cover plant.
• Dobies: Or go for the Geranium Hardy Collection, £19.99 for plants in a variety of colours.

4. Nepeta (catmint)

Nepeta (commonly known as catmint) is known for its aromatic foliage and is tough, easy-to-grow and a great companion plant in beds and borders or informal garden edging ideas. Catmint is also one of the best plants for attracting bees and pollinators to a garden.

‘As with hardy geraniums, catmint can be sheared back quite hard to the lower leafy growth, which encourages fresh foliage and often a second flush of flowers in early autumn,’ advises David.

Where to buy nepeta:

• Thompson & Morgan: This white variety, Calaminhta nepeta, from £19.99, is extremely drought tolerant
• Suttons: Or try the purple-toned Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant', from £9.99, which is perfect for a sunny border.

5. Salvias

Salvias are a great garden all-rounder, providing vibrant colour and fragrance in mixed beds and borders, used as underplanting for roses, or simply grown in pots to create colour in container garden ideas.

Salvias benefit from regular deadheading to remove any spent blooms and allow the plant to send more energy towards new growth. In late summer, perennial salvias can also get a bit leggy and out-of-shape which is an ideal time for cutting back.

‘As with hardy geraniums, delphiniums and catmint, perennial salvias also respond well to being cut back once their flowers have faded,’ says David.

Julian agrees: ‘Salvias often prefer a lighter trim, shaping the bush to keep it neat and encourage side shoots that will flower.’

Where to buy salvias:

• Amazon: The YouGarden Salvia 'Lips Collection', £15.99, includes three of the pretty red and white plants.
• Crocus: Or try the bold purple coloured Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna', from £23.99.

6. Phlox

With its prolific, sweet-scented flowers, phlox is a mainstay of any cottage style garden scheme and pairs well with other summer-flowering perennials such as delphiniums, astrantias and campanulas.

Once Phlox has bloomed however, the flowers will turn brown and can wither on the plant, so cutting back will improve the appearance greatly.

‘Phlox is best deadheaded by snipping off spent flower stems to encourage another round of blooms,’ advises Julian.

Where to buy phlox:

• Gardening Express: For a pretty pale pink flowered plant, try Phlox paniculata 'Sweet Summer', £12.99.
• J. Parker's: Or go for the stunning purple-blue tones of Phlox Paniculata Blue, from £4.99.

7. Coreopsis

Vibrant summer colour is pretty much guaranteed with cheery coreopsis and its bold daisy-like coloured blooms and bushy foliage. A brilliant filler for beds and borders, it thrives in full sun and is a fairly drought tolerant plant too.

While deadheading will help to extend the flowering period, come mid summer, coreopsis will begin to fade and die off, so August is a great time to cut back.

Cut the stems of plants back by roughly one third, keeping to green growth and avoiding cutting any thick, woody stems. Leave some fresh growth around the base of the plant to ensure another flush of blooms.

Where to buy coreopsis:

• Primrose: The delicate pale yellow Coreopsis Verticillata Moonbeam, from £8.99, is super-pretty.
• B&Q: Or try the sunny yellow-flowered Coreopsis grand 'Early Sunshine', £17.99.

What you'll need

Before you start cutting back perennials or plants you should deadhead for a second bloom, make sure you have the right tools to hand. Pruning shears or secateurs are a must, offering precision for cutting stems up to the thickness of a pencil. A thick pair of gloves to protect hands from sharp foliage is essential too.

For larger perennials with thick woody stems, opt for a pair of hedge shears. The blades of shears and secateurs should be kept sharp to ensure a clean cut, which makes pruning easier and leaves plants less susceptible to disease.

Cutting back key perennials now can help to freshen up your borders and give them a second round of colour when autumn comes around. Cutting back is different to what to prune in August, so make sure you add both jobs to your late-summer to-do list.

If there’s one plant you need to grow in your garden this summer, then it’s lavender, as gardening experts explain why this superhero plant is more than worthy of a spot in your garden.

If you’ve been weighing up whether or not to grow lavender in your garden, I’m here to convince you. Adept at pest control, attracting pollinators and filling your garden with a gorgeous scent, there’s not much this plant can’t do.

So, you’ll want to grab a pot of lavender (£7.99 at Crocus) and get to work establishing this beautiful plant in your garden. It won’t be long until you’re reaping the benefits.

Lavender has well and truly earned its reputation as a ‘superhero’ plant. Stunning purple blooms aside, this wonderful plant is one of the best scented shrubs, and when dried, it will make your home smell gorgeous, too.

‘Lavenders have so many uses and look great alongside other garden favourites, such as roses and hydrangeas,’ says Will Thomas, horticultural expert at Golden Valley Plants.

‘The gorgeous scent from lavender is not just attractive to us, the bees and other pollinators love it too, all this whilst repelling unwanted pests and insects. The fragrant flowers and foliage can be used for aromatherapy, culinary additions and insect repellent. I nearly forgot to mention lavender flowers for ages, so you can enjoy the blooms for months on end!’

While lavender may smell delicious to us, many pests can’t stand it, making it a great companion plant. Lavender deters mosquitoes, moths, flies, mice and even crows, making it a great all-rounder when it comes to pest control.

Not only that, but lavender is a hardy plant that can thrive in UK climates - so even the most novice of gardeners can grow it. While it’s best planted in the spring to give the roots enough time to establish, you can plant it now or even pick up a lavender shrub (such as these three lavender pots for £7.98 at Sarah Raven).

‘In terms of care, lavender is remarkably easy-going. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, requiring minimal watering once established, which makes it ideal for gardeners who want beauty without fuss. Lavender is very well suited to UK conditions, especially the hardy varieties such as Lavandula angustifolia, which cope brilliantly with the British climate and even tolerate some frost,’ says Luke Newnes, new build gardening specialist, gardening content creator and member of the Interior Squad at Hillarys.

‘In my view, lavender is absolutely deserving of its ‘superhero’ status—it’s a plant that gives so much, from year-round structure and colour to practical benefits in the home and garden, all while asking for very little in return.’

Where to buy lavender

• Gardening Express has a large variety, like Lavender Hidcote Blue and Large Munstead English Lavender
• Crocus has a lovely range, including the pretty white Lavandula Angustifolia 'Arctic Snow'

We think lavender has definitely earned its stripes as a superhero plant. In fact, every garden is deserving of this beautiful, fragranced plant.

If you've been searching for the best plants that bloom twice a year, you're in for a treat. These are the plants that can transform your garden into a year-round spectacle, offering not just one but two stunning flowering periods that will keep your outdoor space vibrant when other plants have finished their show.

Not all plants bloom twice, it is usually only the best perenials that will deliver a second flush of flowers. They're not entirely effortless either, as you'll often need to deadhead them to encourage the second bloom.

However, once you've got the knowledge, you'll reap the rewards and enjoy extended colour in your garden all summer long.

1. Bougainvillea

Aside from being one of the best plants for a Mediterranean garden, bougainvillea is one of the best flowers to plant if you're after a double bloom.

'Bougainvillea is a very colourful and visually appealing plant that enjoys more than one bloom each year,' Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries says. 'They are drought-tolerant too which means they're ideal for different climates and hopefully won't suffer during particularly hot summer spells.'

This makes bougainvillea ideal if you're looking for low-maintenance border plants too. To make life even easier, you can get a Bougainvillea Elizabeth Angus Climber Plant for just £12.99 from Amazon.

2. Hardy Geraniums

Geraniums are one of the best plants that bloom twice a year, especially if you remember to deadhead your geraniums as and when the flowers need it.

'Hardy geraniums, also known as cranesbills, are perennial plants that with the correct care can offer a second bloom of flowers throughout the season,' Graham Smith MCIHort, horticultural expert from LBS Horticulture explains. 'These plants should be cut back in July, after flowering, to encourage a second bloom throughout August and September.'

If you're looking for a quick and easy upgrade, you can get a 'Tiny Monster' hardy geranium for £12.71 on Amazon at the moment. With an expected growth height of 17cm, it's a short-circuit way to elevate your garden and make a pretty impact.

3. English Shrub Rose

'One of the best plants for gorgeous recurring blooms is the classic English Shrub Rose,' Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres says. 'These decadent flowers bloom at least twice a year and also produce a delicious aroma for your garden.'

Just make sure to deadhead your roses as soon as the flowers start to fade or wilt, to encourage a second bloom. There's many lovely varieties of English Shrub Roses to choose from - the Nye Bevan variety, £23 for a bare root at David Austin Roses is a popular choice. It's a delicate yellow hue that will softly uplift any outdoor space.

4. Yarrow

Yarrow (or achillea) is one of the best perennials to cut back and enjoy a second bloom from. With its feathery foliage and variety of colours, it makes a great addition to garden border ideas.

'Yarrow is a fuss-free plant that will bloom in the summer and, if taken care of well, can also bloom again in the autumn (usually around October time),' Morris says. 'This is a pest and drought-resistant plant so is relatively low maintenance - it's ideal for people who don't have a lot of spare time.'

You'll need free-draining soil to grow yarrow successfully, like the Hardys 25L Top Soil, which is currently on sale at £8.16. It's pre-mixed and fine graded, creating the ideal base.

5. English Lavender

'One of the best plants that bloom twice a year has to be classic English Lavender,' Julian comments. 'These blooms are truly incredible and with the correct trimming can blossom more than twice in the season.'

If you want to try and grow lavender from seed, you can get six English Lavender seedling packets for £10.95 from Amazon. Once it starts to flower, prune your lavender to encourage a second bloom later on, and help the plant grow back next spring as well.

Plus, English Lavender is one of the best plants for keeping aphids off roses too - it's a win win!

What you need to grow plants that bloom twice

FAQs

What is the best flower to plant that comes back every year?

'A perennial is a plant that comes back year on year and there are so many incredible varieties to pick from,' Julian says. 'Some of our favourites include: Peonies, Iris, Papaver, Salvia, Eryngium, Delphinium and English Lavender.'

Some perennials thrive on neglect, like geranium and echinacea, which are perfect if you want a low-fuss garden that blooms every year.

Is there a plant that only blooms once a year?

Yes, some plants only bloom once a year. Annuals will die after their one bloom, but monocarpic perennials will come back each year after an annual bloom.

'One example is the amaryllis, with each flower lasting between 7-10 days,' Morris explains. 'The peony is another one, which also has a single blooming season, typically in late spring or early summer.'

Now you know all about the best plants that bloom twice a year, you can maximise your garden's flower display for the rest of summer.

We've just discovered an easy way to level up our garden pots on a budget: fill them to the brim with Erigeron.

You might have learned how to grow Mexican fleabane, or Erigeron karvinskianus, in garden borders or crevices before, but it's an absolute hit in pots, too. In fact, according to gardening Instagrammer Anya Lautenbach, this plant provides a quick and affordable way to fill pots with a profusion of blooms.

You'll just need a bit of know-how around dividing and planting them up – so I've taken a closer look at Anya's technique.

Erigeron is a brilliant all-rounder. Cath Kidston's patio garden proves that it thrives in the cracks and gaps between pavers, and it does just as well in wall crevices.

It's a fast grower, meaning it's perfect for filling containers with tons of blooms in no time at all.

To start with, you'll need an Erigeron karvinskianus plant, which you can buy from just £4.89 at Crocus. From there, you can begin dividing the plant into smaller sections, which can then be planted up in different pots.

‘You can easily take a clump of erigeron from your existing plant to create more plants for your garden,’ says Anya (@anya_thegarden_fairy) on her Instagram post. ‘Simply pull an outer section of the plant and place it in some water for the plant to hydrate.'

Once you've done that, you simply need to plant the section up in another pot.

'The plants I have divided will quickly grow and flower within a few weeks, giving me more plants for the garden,' says Anya. 'This is how I create my pots of joy for free.’

The result? Pots filled to the brim with daisy flowers. They'll spill over the edges to create wild, abundant displays.

This is just one of Anya's many budget garden ideas that look far more expensive than they actually are. She talks about other ways you can create your dream garden at a fraction of the cost in her book The Money-Saving Gardener, which is currently on sale for £13.45 at Amazon.

Gardening expert and author Sarah Raven is also a fan of Erigeron, and she thinks it's a brilliant long-flowering perennial for pots, too.

'Erigeron is an excellent choice for pots,' she says 'Use it as a pot topper or plant alone as a tumbling table centre for outdoor tables. They also act as a spiller plant that trails over the edges of pots and containers, giving a softer look to your displays.'

Sarah shared a few additional tips for dividing Erigeron into new plants.

'Use a fork to lift a large, healthy clump, then tease apart the root ball to form smaller clumps,' she advises. 'Ensure each clump has its own roots and shoots – I like to use a Hori-Hori for this.'

Spear & Jackson's Razorsharp Hori Hori Multi-Tool from Amazon is ideal.

'Plant your new clumps with a little bit of grit for drainage and water in well,' Sarah continues. 'To get even more out of Erigeron in your garden, leave any gone-over flowers to go to seed.'

Add to basket

And that's that! Erigeron is a fast-growing, long-flowering perennial that can be divided and spread amongst your garden pots to fill them with daisy-like blooms in no time. They're a staple cottage garden plant, but they can make any garden container look more expensive.

A garden is a labour of love – unless you fill yours with perennials that thrive on neglect, of course. Then it's less about working the soil and more about sitting back and watching the flowers grow, quite literally.

You can spend time researching the best perennials, but if you don't have the time to spend labouring over them or are a bit of a lazy gardener, you're best opting for varieties that need no extra intervention.

Look for those low-maintenance border plants that positively hate a fuss, can shrug off bad weather, and still grow back stronger every season.

'You don’t need to be a hands-on horticulturist to have a beautiful, blooming garden year after year. Some plants are more than happy to get on with things without much help,' says landscaper and gardening expert Steven Bell.

'Whether your soil is a bit rubbish, your summers unpredictable, or you’re just after a garden that looks after itself, don't despair,' he adds, 'because there are several perennials that will reward you for doing very little.'

With that in mind, these are five perennials that can not only cope with neglect but will thrive on it.

1. Geranium

If you want pretty perennials that thrive on neglect, try learning to grow hardy geraniums.

'A classic British garden staple, hardy geraniums are not to be confused with bedding geraniums,' says Steven. 'These come back year after year, spreading into lush clumps and producing a flurry of delicate, papery flowers from late spring into summer.'

Noting that they're ideal for garden borders, ground cover, and underplanting roses or shrubs, Steven stresses that hardy geraniums can handle shade or sun, poor soil, and a fair amount of drought. 'Just give them a haircut after flowering and they’ll often bloom again,' he says.

Try something like the Geranium × magnificum 'Rosemoor' from Crocus seen above if you want to lean hard into the flower colours that attract bees at the same time.

2. Sedum/Stonecrop

If you already know how to grow sedums, you're in luck; they're high on the list of perennials that thrive on neglect.

'Beloved by pollinators, this plant is virtually bombproof,' says Steven, pointing out that it loves poor soil and full sun, and once established, barely needs watering.

'With thick, succulent leaves and starry, late-season flowers that pollinators adore, Sedum 'Autumn Joy' thrives in dry, sunny spots where other plants might sulk. Just cut back the dried flower heads in spring.'

As luck would have it, you can buy a Sedum 'Autumn Joy' from Crocus or from Amazon if you really can't wait for the delivery.

3. Echinacea

Perfect for filling your flower beds, garden borders, and even containers, there's a reason so many gardeners are so very fond of echinacea – they're as resilient as they are pretty!

'Native to North America but increasingly at home in UK gardens, echinacea is loved for its bold, daisy-like blooms and ability to withstand hot, dry summers (when we get them) and heavy soil,' says Steven, who notes that this plant's deep roots make it drought-tolerant, too.

Noting that you should 'leave seed heads over winter for birds; cut down in spring,' he adds that this one would feel every bit as at home in a prairie planting scheme as it would in a cottage garden.

Try the echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' from Crocus seen above if you want to fill your garden with bold blooms from July to September.

4. Lady’s mantle

An underrated beauty (even Steven refers to it as old fashioned!), you'd best believe that lady's mantle is one of those perennials that thrives on neglect.

'Lime-green frothy flowers and soft, scalloped leaves that catch the morning dew like tiny pearls, this one tolerates full sun or partial shade and self-seeds happily,' he adds, noting that he'd personally use it for edging paths and softening borders.

Better still? It can also be used as weed-smothering groundcover! Run, don't walk, to pick up the variety of lady's mantle seen above from Crocus.

5. Crocosmia (especially Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’)

Last but not least on our list of perennials that thrive on neglect is the striking crocosmia, especially as it makes for excellent cut flowers.

'A fiery burst of red or orange in midsummer, Crocosmia is a magnet for bees and butterflies. Once planted, it’s almost impossible to get rid of,' adds Steven, 'which, in this case, is a good thing.'

Noting that this plant survives most soils, weathers harsh winters, and spreads without encouragement, he advises you simply 'cut back the leaves in late autumn, and divide every few years if it gets crowded'.

Pick up a Crocosmia 'Lucifer' from Crocus now if you want tomato-red blooms on arching spikes all summer long.

FAQs

What are the best perennials for low maintenance gardening?

If you're on a hunt for the best perennials for low-maintenance gardening that need a little more effort than complete neglect, Christopher O'Donoghue of Gardens Revived suggests you stick to the following three plants.

'Hardy geraniums have a wonderfully long flowering season, spread well but not invasively, and need nothing more than a quick trim when their blooms are done,' he says.

Christopher goes on to recommend planting catmint, as it's 'drought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, and boasts soft and aromatic foliage'. And, to really mix things up, you might consider planting some hellebores for winter interest.

'These evergreens bloom in late winter to early spring when little else is growing,' he says, pointing out that they hellebores also do well in shady spots.

'Just remove old leaves once a year and mulch occasionally and you're done!'

What is the most hardy perennial flower in the UK?

Hellebores and hardy geraniums are counted among the most hardy perennial flower in the UK, but, if you're in the market for something a little different, you might also consider our native primrose (available from Crocus).

Its buttery petals are always a welcome sight when they bloom over the winter months, but we're especially fond of this one for making the best of things – including a shady spot – so long as their soil remains moist.

And there you have it; the perennials that thrive on neglect. All you really need to do is get them in the ground, and they should do most of the work for you – so be sure to put all that extra time you gain back to good use.

Spring is in full bloom, but if your garden is looking a little empty right now and you’re after easy ways to fill the gaps that won’t cost a fortune, then sowing your own perennial plants from seed is the way to go.

Most garden plants are either annual or perennial. Annual plants flower, set seed, and die within 12 months, while perennials live for several years. Sown in early spring, many long flowering perennials will bloom in their first year and then return year after year, so they can be a great money-saver with the added advantage of not having to replant beds and borders every season.

While it may take a little more effort starting off your own perennials from seed, as opposed to buying ready-grown plants at a garden centre, the price of a packet of seeds costs way less, plus you’ll have masses of seedlings to pot on when you’re in need of garden border ideas.

‘There are some brilliant perennial varieties that are surprisingly easy to sow from seed - perfect for gardeners looking for long-term reward without a huge investment,’ says Elise Harlock, Brand Manager at Prestige Flowers.

‘You can fill a border for a fraction of the cost of buying mature plants, and watching them grow year after year builds a real connection with your garden. It’s also a more sustainable option - less plastic, less transport, and fewer resources used overall.’

1. Echinacea

Looking for a colourful and easy-care perennial to brighten up your flower beds? You won’t go wrong with cheery echinacea. With vibrant, daisy-like flowers, they come in a variety of shades from warm yellows and oranges to cooler pinks and purples and look fabulous planted en masse in borders. They are prolific self-seeders, too, meaning they’ll spread naturally, with the potential of new plants appearing for free in your garden.

‘Echinacea are a classic cottage-garden favourite,’ says Elise. ‘The seeds are easy to sow indoors in early spring, and they thrive in sunny, well-drained spots. Once established, they’re super-hardy and attract bees and butterflies in droves.’

Where to buy Echinacea seeds:

• Sarah Raven: The Catherine-wheel shaped flowers and mixed colours of Echinacea purpurea 'Paradiso Mix' are super pretty.
• Suttons: Stock up on the easy-to-grow Echinacea purpurea 'Brilliant Star' seeds

2. Lupins

Another cottage-garden classic, lupins are instantly recognisable with their bold, colourful flower spikes and are the perfect choice if you want to add height to garden borders.

‘Lupins bring that bold, architectural shape to beds and borders,’ says Elise. ‘They do well in full sun and can tolerate poor soil - though they hate sitting in water, so make sure drainage is good.’

‘For an extra boost when sowing perennials like lupins, soaking the seeds overnight will enable the hard outer layer to soften and make it easier for water to penetrate and initiate germination,’ says Angharad James, Product Manager at Maxicrop. ‘When soaking, we recommend adding a dash of Maxicrop® All Purpose Plant Growth Stimulant (you can pick this up on Amazon) to the water. It will help plants grow strong and healthy from seed to full bloom and can help increase germination rates.’

Where to buy lupin seeds:

• Suttons: Get started with Lupin 'Gallery Mix' a resilient perennial with robust colourful spikes
• Thompson & Morgan: Or try the pretty bicolour blooms of Lupin 'Avalune Mixed'

3. Aquilegia

Aquilegia, also known as columbine or granny’s bonnet due to its distinctive nodding cap-shaped flowers, comes in many varieties and colours, from bold reds and hot pinks to softer purples, whites and even two-tone flowers. Foliage is attractive, too, with delicate scalloped leaves that provide a good backdrop for other plants.

'Aquilegia are delightfully low-effort,’ says Elise. ‘Plants will self-seed once established, but starting from seed is very simple - just sow directly in spring or autumn. Unfussy about soil type, they’re great for shadier spots and do well in informal garden borders or naturalistic, wildlife-friendly gardens.’

Where to buy aquilegia seeds:

• Suttons: We love the multicoloured Aquilegia 'Pretty Bonnets Mix'
• Mr Fothergills: Get started with the sunny-coloured RHS Aquligia Yellow Queen

4. Coreopsis

‘A brilliant beginner-friendly perennial with bright, daisy-like flowers, coreopsis is drought-tolerant, flourishes in full sun, and will bloom for months with very little attention,’ says Elise.

Coreopsis can be annual or perennial, with perennial coreopsis bearing mostly yellow flowers with some pink-flowered and bicoloured varieties. A timely garden job to do in April, coreopsis seeds can be sown outdoors in prepared soil after the last frost. Just keep soil moist, and don’t cover the seeds, as they need light to germinate.

Where to buy coreopsis seeds:

• Suttons: Go bold with the vibrant yellow and orange Coreopsis Mardi Gras'
• Thompson & Morgan: Multicoloured Coreopsis x hybrida 'Incredible Dwarf Mix' are a brilliant choice

5. Delphiniums

Showstopping delphiniums are the perfect choice if you want to bring a touch of drama to your beds and borders. With their lofty flower spikes, they are a great border staple and look fabulous planted in groups of two or three, bringing height to displays and mixing well with mid-level roses and peonies or other vertical blooms.

‘Delphiniums have a bit of a reputation for being fussy, but from seed, they’re quite straightforward,’ says Elise. ‘Sow in late winter or early spring in a cool, bright space. They love rich soil and a sheltered spot, and they’ll repay you with towering blue spikes that are pure drama.’

When plants are established, consider dividing perennials to increase the number of plants you have in your garden. Delphiniums will need digging up and dividing in early spring every 2-5 years, and the new plants created should flower the same year.

Where to buy delphinium seeds:

• Dobies: Pretty up your borders with the classic pastel tones of Delphinium 'Hyacinth-flowered Mix'
• Mr Fothergill: Go for an all-blue variety with the pretty RHS Delphinium Centurion Sky Blue

6. Verbena bonariensis

The perfect choice if you want to add height to borders, verbena bonariensis is a tall perennial plant with sparse leafy stems and clusters of lilac-purple coloured flowers on top. Their see-through quality and architectural form make them ideal for adding structure without creating dense blocks of colour.

Verbena bonariensis is easy to grow from seed,’ says Phoebe Cater, Plant Buyer at British Garden Centres, ‘and their nectar-rich flowers are irresistible to bees, butterflies and other pollinators, so perfect for wildflower garden ideas. Sow indoors in late winter/early spring and maintain a warm temperature of 24-27 degrees until germination. This only takes around 2-3 weeks.

Where to buy Verbena bonariensis seeds:

• Thompson & Morgan: Classic Verbena Bonariensis and a bargain buy too
• Marshalls Garden: Verbena seeds 'Bonariensis Vanity' will give a blaze of colour

7. Dianthus

Perfect for container gardens as well as borders, Dianthus are a staple in cottage and cutting gardens offering an abundance of blooms and a wonderful scent. Often know as ‘pinks’ this refers to the serrated edge of the petals that looks like they’ve been trimmed by pinking shears, rather than their colour.

‘Dianthus are a great addition to the garden,’ says Phoebe. ‘They are easy to grow, shock resistant and able to tolerate a range of soil conditions. Seedlings take only around 2 weeks to germinate and are ready for planting in the garden 6-8 weeks later.’

Some varieties, such as ‘Sweet Purple White Bicolor’ and ‘Sweet Pink Magic’, can flower the same year if started in a heated propagator in January, February, or March and planted out in April or May.

Where to buy Dianthus seeds:

• Sarah Raven: Try the richly coloured Dianthus barbatus 'Electron Mix'
• Thompson & Morgan: Opt for the super-pretty pink and white Dianthus deltoides 'Arctic Fire'

FAQs

What is the best time to plant perennial seeds?

‘For most perennials, the best time to sow seeds is in early spring (February to April), when you can give them a head start indoors or in a greenhouse,’ advises Elise. ‘You can also sow some in late summer or autumn, especially hardy varieties like aquilegia, to give them a natural cold period before spring growth.’

‘Once seedlings appear, the key is not to rush them outside. Harden them off gradually by placing them outdoors during the day and bringing them in at night for a week or two.’

'And don’t overcrowd them - thinning out seedlings might feel ruthless, but it’s vital for strong, healthy plants.’

'Label everything clearly,’ adds Elise, ‘and keep an eye on moisture - seedlings don’t like to dry out, but soggy roots can lead to rot. Water from below if possible to keep leaves dry and avoid disease.’

What is the easiest perennial to grow from seed?

‘Many beautiful and hardy perennials can be easily grown from seed, including yarrow, coreopsis, echinacea, columbine and perennial salvia,’ says Angharad James at Maxicrop.

While some perennials may reward you with flowers in their first year if started from seed early enough in the season, most do require a little more time to establish themselves, so they may not flower until the second year. For faster-growing perennials, consider lupins, crocosmia and achillea.

Perennials to avoid include purple loosestrife and ox-eye daisy which can quickly get out of control, as well as foxgloves, which look glorious but are short-lived and toxic if you have children or pets.

'Overwintering' seems to be the gardening buzzword this season, with many of us taking steps to protect our plants from the cold weather ahead. But do perennials need to be protected from frost?

Learning how to protect plants from frost is key to getting your garden ready for winter, but knowing which plants can fend for themselves is just as important if you want to save precious time and resources on frost protection.

To help you get your plants sorted before the first frosts arrive, we've put together a guide to the types of perennials that need protection from frost over the colder months.

Do perennials need to be protected from frost?

It all comes down to the hardiness of the perennial you're growing. Many perennials are hardy enough to withstand freezing temperatures and bounce back every year, but others can suffer frost damage if they're left unprotected over the winter.

Location, both within the garden and the region you live in the UK, is also an important factor. 'Most hardy perennials should be able to tolerate the frosts common in the UK, but the protection needs for borderline and more tender species will depend on their location,' says Angela Slater, gardening expert at Hayes Garden World.

So, do perennials need to be protected from frost? The answer is that some do – many deciduous and evergreen perennials are hardy enough to survive the winter without protection, but there are a few exceptions...

1. Tender perennials

You've probably seen the phrase 'tender perennial' floating around, but what does that actually mean?

Put simply, a tender perennial is a plant that lives for more than two years but won't survive a frost. It generally requires temperatures above 1°C to stay alive.

If you're growing a less hardy fuchsia variety, for example, you'll need to learn how to overwinter fuchsias. Some knowledge about overwintering geraniums and begonias will also come in handy if you want to see the plants through to next spring.

Tender varieties of salvia, agapanthus and cannas also benefit from frost protection, and learning how to overwinter dahlias is essential if you want fresh flowers next year.

2. Young perennials

Even if you're buying a hardy perennial for the garden, young plants sometimes need a little extra protection during their first winter or two.

'Young perennials, planted late in the season, won’t have time to build up a resilient crown and root system so will be at risk of frost damage,' explains Angela. 'Their foliage is also too weak and sappy to withstand any degree of frost.

'If you have a new herbaceous border planted with small perennials, just secure a sheet of horticultural fleece over the whole bed. It is advisable to protect these plants for the first couple of winters until they have built up their resilience to frost.'

3. Perennials in pots

Perennials in the ground will generally fare better than those in pots during the winter. Not all perennials in pots need protecting, but it's important to note that the roots are more vulnerable when grown this way, especially during wet winters.

'Outdoor container plants will need a helping hand to see them through the coldest months,' says Andrew White, gardening expert at Rhino Greenhouses Direct. 'Waterlogged compost may freeze in a cold spell, damaging the roots and bulbs of your precious pot plants.'

Consider mulching around perennials in pots or wrapping them in fleece during particularly cold spells.

'Plants in containers, regardless of their natural frost resilience, are at greater risk of freezing,' agrees Angela. 'Make sure the containers are raised off the ground to allow water to drain away.'

4. Cold extremes

If you live in a particularly chilly part of the UK, or your garden sits in a frost pocket, even hardy perennials might need a little extra protection during cold spells.

As we mentioned before, location plays a huge role in determining whether or not perennials need to be protected from frost.

'The south of the country tends to be a lot milder than the north, and sheltered south-facing aspects against a house will generally be almost frost-free in the south,' says Angela.

And not just the site – the soil your perennials live in will also affect their vulnerability to the frost. 'Plants in free-draining soils will also fare a lot better than those in heavy moisture-retaining soils that are prone to freezing,' Angela continues.

'Hardy perennials in heavy clay soils that remain waterlogged throughout the winter may benefit from additional protection. You can do this by adding compost or well-rotted farmyard manure, which should open up the structure and allow it to drain.'

Frost protection essentials

FAQs

Can you leave frost cloth on plants?

Even though many plants need consistent protection during the winter, they still need to be able to receive enough sunlight and air to grow healthily.

Thankfully, the best plant covers for winter are breathable, allowing air and light to reach your plants. If you're wrapping or covering your plants whole, though, it doesn't hurt to remove the fleece on milder days to give them a bit of breathing space.

Does gravel protect plants from frost?

If you're wondering how to protect plants with mulch, gravel is an effective option for keeping frost off of plant roots. Gravel can also retain heat from the sun, especially darker chippings, which provide plants with extra warmth. Apply a generous layer for the best results.

Are there any perennials that don't need protecting from frost?

Hardy perennials are less likely to need frost protection, but there are a few plants that actually benefit from cold snaps.

'Protecting perennials, in addition to any woody shrubs, roses, small trees or other woody plants, isn’t really necessary or beneficial because these plants need to experience the cold temperatures to fully enter dormancy,' explains Petar Ivanov Fantastic Gardeners' gardening and plant expert.

Remember to put frost protection measures in place before the first frost arrives – it isn't far away!

The days might be getting gloomier, but if you invest in the best autumn-flowering perennials now, you don't have to resign yourself to a garden filled with empty beds and borders just yet.

That's right; the best perennial plants don't always bloom in spring and summer – in fact, there are plenty of late-flowering beauties that will keep things feeling cheery during the autumn months, too.

Best of all? Well, you can consider this impromptu planting session an investment or a budget-friendly garden idea, as perennials are famed for flowering year after year after year. Which basically means you're guaranteed a stunning annual autumn display with very little work.

The best autumn-flowering perennials

If you're not sure which late-flowering perennials will work best in your garden borders and flower beds this autumn, don't despair; we've joined forces with some gardening pros to bring you a selection that you will (ahem) fall in love with...

1. Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)

One of the most famous and best autumn-flowering perennials is the aster (or Michaelmas daisy, if you prefer), which blooms right through October – so long as you keep it well watered during dry spells and deadhead regularly to prolong flowering.

'Asters are a great transition plant from summer to autumn-flowering,' says award-winning garden designer Zoe Claymore.

'Many have bright colours, but for a more muted softer tone, I like the Aster Ice Cool Pink from Beth Chatto.'

Where to buy aster:

• Crocus: try the Aster × frikartii 'Mönch' pictured above
• Thompson & Morgan: a great selection of different Aster varieties
• Sarah Raven: the award-winning Aster amellus 'King George' is a great option

2. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum spp.)

'Chrysanthemums or "mums," are a classic late-flowering perennial, as they bloom between September to November,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

'They come in a wide range of colours, including yellow, red, pink, and white, with various flower shapes such as pom-poms, daisy-like, or spider forms. They're especially perfect for autumn as they have long-lasting, frost-resistant blooms.'

While they need full sun and moist, well-drained soil, these autumn-flowering perennials are easy to grow and great value for money, as they will usually produce lots of blooms over a long period of time.

Where to buy chrysanthemums:

• Thompson & Morgan: we rate the Chrysanthemum 'Conella Orange' variety for bold autumn colour
• Crocus: try the Chrysanthemum 'Clara Curtis' if you want great value for money
• Homebase: the Chrysanthemum Bicolour mix 12cm gives you a nice mix of blooms

3. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

If you're wondering what to plant in pots in September, consider echinacea, as they're often counted among the best autumn-flowering perennials.

'Echinacea perennials, also known as “coneflower”, bloom between July to October,' says Morris. 'They are robust perennials with large, daisy-like flowers and prominent, spiky cones in the centre, and they come in shades of purple, pink, orange, and white.'

Echinacea will see you well through the winter thanks to their attractive seedheads, but they will need a good autumn mulch with well-rotted compost.

Where to buy echinacea:

• Crocus: try the Echinacea purpurea 'Virgin' (PBR)
• Sarah Raven: plenty of echinacea to choose from
• Thompson & Morgan: the Echinacea 'Cheyenne Spirit' offers a bright pop of orange/red

4. Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis)

Another brilliant late-flowering perennial, the Japanese anemone is another one that will bloom right through to Halloween.

'Japanese anemones bloom from August to October, and they produce delicate, saucer-shaped flowers in various shades of purple, pink and white, often featuring a golden centre,' says Morris. 'They grow well in partial shade locations, too, making them great for even north-facing gardens.'

Just be sure to mulch them well and, where necessary, lift and divide congested clumps in autumn or early spring.

Where to buy Japanese anemone:

• Crocus: try the Anemone × hybrida 'Robustissima' seen above
• Sarah Raven: a plethora of Japanese anemones to choose from
• Thompson & Morgan: give the award-winning Anemone x hybrida 'September Charm' a whirl

5. Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia fulgida)

Another beauty that's widely considered one of the best autumn-flowering perennials, this one has the added benefit of being ideal for pots and containers.

'Perennials like Rudbeckia bloom from August to October, and they are commonly known as "Black-eyed Susan",' says Morris.

'They produce golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers with a dark brown centre. They are resilient plants that love light, so be sure to plant them in fertile soil in a sunny spot.'

Where to buy rudbeckia:

• Crocus: give the Rudbeckia fulgida 'Little Goldstar' (PBR) a go
• Sarah Raven: the Rudbeckia hirta 'Cappuccino' is a reliable mahogany variety
• Thompson & Morgan: try the Rudbeckia fulgida var sullivantii 'Goldsturm'

6. Sedum (Sedum spectabile)

One of our favourite low-maintenance border plants, sedum can grow in a variety of conditions so are likely to thrive wherever you place them. That's why learning how to grow sedums is so easy.

'Sedum perennials, also known as “autumn Joy”, are succulent with fleshy leaves and large flat clusters of star-shaped flowers that bloom between August to October,' says Morris.

'They come in a range of shades, from pink to bronze or red as the season progresses.'

Where to buy sedum:

• Crocus: lots of sedum available
• Thompson & Morgan: a wide selection of sedum plants

FAQs

What to plant for autumn flowering?

Not sure what to plant for autumn flowering? Try perennials like aster, chrysanthemums, echinacea, Japanese anemones, rudbeckia, and sedums.

Morris Hankinson of Hopes Grove Nurseries also rates helenium for this time of year.

'Blooming from August to October, Helenium commonly known as “sneezeweed” produces daisy-like flowers in warm autumn tones of yellow, red and orange. Plant these in full-sun locations to promote stronger blooms,' he promises.

Is there a flower that blooms in autumn?

While there are many late-flowering perennials that will bloom in autumn, garden designer Zoe Claymore suggests thinking outside the box a bit.

'Perennials such as phlomis come into a new season with their seed heads forming architectural shapes. Go full Piet Oudolf and mix with ornamental perennial grasses for contrast.'

'Grasses really come into their own this season with Calmalogrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' being exceptional in autumn light,' she adds.

With so many autumn-flowering perennials to choose from, you're guaranteed a truly spectacular season of mist and mellow fruitfulness. Have a blooming lovely autumn...

If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's this: gardening can be an expensive hobby. Learning how to divide perennials, then, is a must – especially if you fancy filling your flower beds with the best perennial plants for free!

That's right; one of those budget-friendly garden ideas that never goes out of style, we're incredibly fond of perennials and their ability to bloom year after year. Having more of them, then, can only be a good thing.

Even better? Dividing perennials is quite an easy gardening task to master, making it ideally suited to green-fingered types and beginners alike, and it's packed full of benefits for the plants to boot.

'The process of dividing perennial plants is relatively simple, and regular division offers so many benefits to plants like hostas, asters, daylilies and sedums,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

'It’s a great way to get more plants for free and rejuvenate the original plant,' he adds.

As if you needed further reason to get to work on this project, Morris says that dividing perennials is a great way to 'prevent overcrowding in your garden, which will in turn prevent pests and the spread of disease due to poor air circulation'.

With that in mind, then...

What you'll need

The equipment you will need for this task depends on the type of perennial plants you'll be dividing.

As a general rule of thumb, though, it's a good idea to have the following to hand:

• A garden fork, such as the Spear & Jackson Weed Fork from John Lewis
• A garden knife, like the FLORA GUARD Professional Hori Hori Garden Knife from Amazon
• A pair of garden gloves, try the Burgon & Ball Flora Brite Nylon Pink Gardening Gloves from B&Q

Step-by-step guide

If you want to learn how to divide perennials like a pro, the trick is to remember that, while some varieties may require a tweak or two to the process, the majority can be tackled using the same basic step-by-step guide.

With that in mind, then...

1. Time it correctly

Just as is the case when propagating peonies by division, timing is everything when it comes to learning how to divide perennials.

'One of the most important factors when it comes to dividing perennial plants is the timing, this is usually between early spring or autumn, typically before the frost sets in,' says Morris.

'This is when the weather is cooler and the plant is not under stress from the summer heat. Both seasons have their own benefits, as spring allows plants to settle before the growing season and autumn divisions give plants time to establish roots before winter.'

Morris adds that it's vital you 'avoid division during summer months, as the heat can cause stress to the plants making them more vulnerable to wilting and dying'.

2. Water them well

Before dividing your perennials, Morris says you should prepare them appropriately by watering them thoroughly the day (ideally using water gathered via rain harvesting) to make the soil easier to dig and reduce transplant shock.

'If you are handling an overgrown or leafy perennial, you should cut back foliage where necessary,' he adds.

'Trimming these back can reduce water loss and stress on the plant.'

3. Get dividing

The easiest way to divide perennials, according to Monty Don himself, is to simply 'dig the whole plant up and discard the centre section to the compost heap'. You can do this by using your fingers to gently remove the excess soil.

Writing on his popular gardening blog, the gardening guru says you can then replant the 'more vigorous outside parts of the plants in groups which will grow together to make one large plant'.

As per the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), there is an advanced lesson when it comes to learning how to divide perennials. Why? Because, different methods will sometimes be required:

• If you're working with large, fibrous-rooted perennials like daylilies, the RHS says you should use insert two garden forks into the crown back-to-back. 'Use these as levers to loosen and break the root mass into two sections,' they add.
• Plants like bugles produce individual plantlets, so you'll need to tease these out of the crown by hand.
• Hellebores and delphiniums will need to be cut with a spade or knife, so that you create several clumps with healthy shoots.

4. Plant them out

Morris says that one of the most important things to remember when learning how to divide perennials is to plant them out as quickly as possible.

'When replanting the divisions, this should be done as soon as possible to avoid drying out,' he explains.

'Space these out according to the plants' mature size and dig a hole wide enough to accommodate the roots,' he adds, 'and make sure you position the plant so the crown is just below soil level.'

5. Keep them hydrated

When planting your newly divided perennials, Morris says that you should take care to 'water the plant well right after planting, as this can help them settle in and promote root growth'.

'If you have some mulch, apply a layer around the plant to conserve moisture and insulate the roots,' he adds.

'Make sure you keep the soil moist for the first few weeks to help the plant establish itself.'

FAQs

What is the best time to divide perennials?

The best time to divide perennials is when they're dormant (aka not in active growth), which is usually in the late autumn or early spring.

'In wet autumns, delay until spring,' urge experts at the RHS, who note that 'spring is also better suited to plants that are a touch tender'.

All that being said, you can attempt to divide perennials at any time of year, so long as you keep them well watered afterwards.

What are the easiest perennials to divide?

Monty Don says it is worth dividing all herbaceous perennials every three to five years. That being said, primroses, daylilies, sedum, lily-of-the-valley, salvias, geraniums, and delphiniums are considered among the easiest perennials to divide.

Now that you know how to divide perennials like a pro, you're well on your way to a garden filled with beautiful blooms year after year. For free!

Grab a garden fork, then, and start easing your perennial plants up and out ready for division. We promise it'll be worth it...

As the colder weather starts to approach, you might have wondered how your tomato plants will fair. While they are technically perennials, you will have to take alot of extra care of them if you want them to survive through winter.

If you’ve taken the time to learn how to grow tomatoes here in the UK, you don’t want all that hard work to go to waste as soon as winter rolls around. Which is why now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you might want to prepare and protect your tomato plants before the first frost of the winter season.

Now, even though ‘tomato plants are technically perennials in their native tropical environments, where they can live for several years, in temperate climates, including the UK, they are usually grown as annuals because they cannot survive freezing temperatures,’ reveals Petar Ivanov, Gardening and Plant Expert at Fantastic Gardeners.

So, should you be overwintering them? Or what can you do to protect them from the cold? Well, we asked the experts to share their top advice and it may make you think a bit differently when it comes to your tomato plant and how to enjoy it for as long as possible.

Are tomato plants a perennial that can survive winter?

While the simple answer is yes, they can survive winter but they do need some help to do so. Without taking quite a few steps, a tomato plant will most likely not survive the colder and darker months of the year here in Britain.

It is also ‘important to note that how well your plants will survive winter will depend on the type of tomatoes that you are growing,’ says Graham Smith MCIHort, Gardening Expert at LBS Horticulture. ‘If you are growing indeterminate or wild tomatoes, these can often be overwintered easily, whereas determinate tomatoes are better overwintered as cuttings instead of a whole plant.’

Is it worth overwintering tomato plants?

‘Overwintering plants can sound like an intimidating task,’ Andrew White from Rhino Greenhouses Direct admits. But all it really means is protecting your plants from the frost.

However, the experts are in two minds as to whether or not it is worth overwintering your tomato plants. While some agree that it’s not a particularly common practice because many believe it’s easier to just wait until the frost is over and sow new seeds, Beth King, Garden Conservation Apprentice at St Andrews Botanic Garden, suggests ‘this is not always a feasible option.’

This is because ‘tomato plants are very susceptible to late blight towards the end of their growing season and very few survive. If they were to be overwintered the plants would need to be completely healthy and free of any disease.’

It could ‘certainly be an interesting, if time-consuming, experiment,’ Beth proposes but it might not suit everyone. However, if you do decide to give it a try, Andrew recommends taking the following into consideration. Firstly, ‘ensure that you apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of your tomato plant. Mulch will help your tomato plant regulate the temperature of the soil, conserve moisture and will help protect the roots from frost.’

Direct sunlight is also incredibly important. While a greenhouse is the recommended location for overwintering tomatoes, a conservatory or south-facing window may also offer adequate light levels.

‘Throughout overwintering, your tomatoes may begin to flower. It is important that the flowers are removed as the flowers can be detrimental to the health of your plant as your plant will waste energy keeping the flowers alive,’ Andrew concludes. So, you’ll want to keep on top of pruning tomato plants at this point in time.

What you’ll need to overwinter tomatoes

FAQs

Can you save a tomato plant after frost?

‘Unfortunately, tomatoes and frost don't mix well. But if your plants do get caught in an unexpected frost, there's a chance you can save them if you act quickly,’ Loren Taylor, Owner of Outdoor Fountain Pros, reveals.

However, in most cases ‘you might be able to salvage the fruit, but the plant itself may not recover.’ This is why it is so important to keep an eye on the weather forecast as we move from autumn to winter, as sometimes a sudden frost can almost come out of nowhere and if you’re not prepared your tomato plant might not make it.

And Petar agrees. ‘If a tomato plant has been exposed to frost, the damage can be severe; however, you might be able to save it if only the tops are affected. Trim away damaged foliage, move the plant to a warmer location, and see if it can recover. Sometimes, taking cuttings from the healthy parts of the plant can also be a viable option.’

When is it too cold to put tomato plants outside in the UK?

‘It’s generally too cold for tomatoes once temperatures drop below 10°C,’ Peter affirms. ‘In the UK, this usually means protecting them from late autumn frosts and keeping them indoors or in a greenhouse once nighttime temperatures consistently fall below this threshold.’

Once the temperature falls below 10°C, tomato plants will essentially stop growing which can prevent them from flowering and producing their delicious tomatoes, which we obviously want to avoid. But taking the above tips into consideration should stop your tomato plant from meeting an unfortunate end and keep it thriving for seasons and years to come.

And finally, ‘don’t be tempted to move your tomato plants out too early,’ Andrew warns. ‘Wait until the frost has fully passed and spring has sprung before you transfer your tomato plants back outside. We typically recommend waiting until mid-May before transferring your tomato plants back into your garden.

If you're looking to add some serious colour and vibrancy to your garden (without spending too much money in the process), then you need to start planting long flowering perennials in your garden borders.

The best perennials are great value, as they can live for many years (deciduous ones die back to the roots after the growing season, while evergreen perennials do their thing all year long). However, even better there are some perennials that bloom for longer than other plants, or even offer a second flowering helping bridge the gap between seasons.

So, whether you want to transform your flower beds or start container gardening, here are a few of our favourite long-flowering perennials, then, to help you choose the best for your space...

1. Salvia nemorosa

It doesn't matter if you're working with a cottage garden or thoroughly modern garden; these long flowering perennials will suit almost any planting scheme.

'Salvias are some of the longest flowering garden plants and easy to care for plants,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

'They can be fragrant and found in all kinds of colours, varying flowers and sizes. Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ has been extremely popular over recent years due to its purpleish stems with violet blue flowers reaching about 0.5m,' he continues.

These long flowering perennials will bloom from early summer all the way through to autumn, and tend to prefer a moist, but well-drained soil in full sun.

Where to buy:

• Dobies: try the Salvia nemorosa 'New Dimensions Mix' pictured above
• Crocus: give the Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' a go
• Thompson & Morgan: a wide range of salvias to choose from

2. Erigeron karvinskianus

Also known as Mexican fleabane, this long flowering perennial promises daisy-type blooms that will thrive in full sun (yet tolerate some shade), making them ideal for all of your coastal garden ideas.

'I count these among my favourite perennials,' says award-winning garden designer Zoe Claymore. 'But be careful when planting, because they will spread quickly!'

The drought-tolerant erigeron karvinskianus will bloom from spring to late autumn, their petals changing from white to pinkish-purple towards the end of the growing season.

Where to buy:

• Amazon: plenty of speedy delivery options for your erigeron karvinskianus
• Crocus: you can buy Mexican fleabane as seeds or pots
• Thompson & Morgan: available as potted plants

3. Yarrow

Yarrow seriously deserves its spot on the list of best long-flowering perennials; there are so many different colours and varieties available, which means you can choose exactly which fluffy flowers you want to see from late spring throughout summer.

'Achillean, more commonly known as yarrow, is a great perennial to plant up – with one of the most well known being "Moonshine" thanks to its bright yellow flowers,' says Morris.

'Drought tolerant and very long lived, yarrow that doesn’t require support or much else! Pollinating insects love it, it looks great in bouquets of cut flowers, and it brings a border alive... especially if planted with ornamental grasses.'

Where to buy:

• Sarah Raven: we're fond of the Achillea millefolium 'Lilac Beauty' for its delicate pastel petals
• Crocus: an abundance of yarrow varieties to choose from
• Waitrose Garden: try the Achillea Moonshine

4. Repeat flowering roses

Roses are a classic, but trying growing roses that are repeat flowers for one of the best long flowering perennials.

'They might be a shrub, but I love repeat-flowering roses,' says Zoe. 'I particularly like the David Austin Scarborough Fayre in my own garden, which offers up generous blooms from spring till the first frosts in the autumn.'

Shrub roses thrive in fertile soil in full sun, although you may find that the likes of Rosa rugosa will cope just as well with dry soil and a little shade.

Where to buy:

• Sarah Raven: prepare to fall for the Rosa 'Ferdinand Pichard' (Shrub)
• Thompson & Morgan: give the Rose rugosa 'Rubra' (Species Shrub Rose) a whirl
• Crocus: try to choose between all of the shrub roses on offer

5. Scabiosa

Another of those long flowering perennials that's beloved by gardening pros, the pretty Pincushion Flower is a butterfly magnet, making it ideal for your wildlife garden.

'Scabiosa can be found in pink, red, white, pale violet and many colours which continue to bloom from early summer into autumn,' says Morris.

'Looking great in any border, they attract wildlife (especially butterflies) and are often used in coastal, wildlife or rock gardens.'

Where to buy:

• Crocus: an abundance of scabiosa to choose from
• Thompson & Morgan: try the Scabious 'Butterfly Blue'

6. Geums

Promising an explosion of colour (so long as you plant them in moist but well-drained soil in sun to partial shade), geums are another of Zoe's favourite long-flowering perennials.

'I particularly like pairing Totally Tangerine with Salvia Cardonna in planting schemes for a classic contrast mix,' she says.

Geums don't need much TLC, although you will need to deadhead them after flowering and divide them every three years or so.

Where to buy:

• Thompson & Morgan: make like Zoe and opt for the Geum 'Totally Tangerine'
• Crocus: sift through the many geums available
• Sarah Raven: add plenty of colour and interest to your garden with the Geum 'Orange Pumpkin'

7. Echinacea

Another of those long flowering perennials that promises to give as good as it gets is the not-so-humble echinacea.

'The daisy like flowers of echinacea can flower all throughout summer into autumn (especially the variety ‘White Swan’),' promises Morris.

'Medicinal, pretty and great for pollinators, Echinacea can be found in colours from pink to white and even orange and look great in almost any planting scheme but especially cottage gardens. The seedheads will also be loved by birds in winter, too!'

Where to buy:

• Crocus: try the Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan'
• Thompson & Morgan: we're fond of the Echinacea 'Green Twister' for a fun pop of colour
• Sarah Raven: plenty of echinacea varieties on offer

8. Hylotelephium

Last but by no means least on our list of long flowering perennials is the pretty hylotelephium.

'Also known as sedum stonecrop, hylotelephium has flower heads that can grow up to 20cm wide!' says Morris.

'Full of tiny pink star shaped flowers which change from white to pink to an even darker pink, they can flower from mid summer all the way through to late autumn. The seedheads also look spectacular and can be left on over winter for interest and insects.'

These perennials will benefit from a 'Chelsea chop' in terms of TLC, and prefer full sun in moist, well-drained soil.

Where to buy:

• Crocus: a huge selection of hylotelephium
• Thompson & Morgan: try the Sedum telephium 'Purple Emperor'
• B&Q: give the Luscious Hylotelephium Collection a go

FAQs

What is the longest blooming perennial?

Salvias are considered by many to be some of the longest blooming perennials, as they flower from early summer all the way through to autumn. Bistorta (also known as Persicaria) will also flower for months throughout summer and autumn.

'It’s a vigorous perennial which can be used a ground cover in well drained, moist soil and the bees also love it!' promises Morris Hankinson of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

What is the most hardy perennial flower?

If you're looking for a hardy perennial flower, it's best to try something like salvia, hostas, phlox, or hellebores, as all will thrive in even tricky planting conditions.

Which perennials flower the longest in the UK?

Salvias, echinacea, hylotelephium, geums, scabiosa, shrub roses, hyssops, yarrow and centaurea nigra are all counted among the perennials that flower the longest in the UK.

Garden designer Zoe Claymore also rates hardy geraniums. 'The Orion and Roxanne varieties are favourites with designers for a reason, as they're reliable and a tad showy,' she says.

And just like that, you have the secret to a colourful and thriving garden! We'll be snapping up some long flowering perennials in all the garden centre end-of-season sales.

Deadheading is one of the most popular garden tasks, and it's something you'll have in mind if you have flowering plants in your garden. But should you deadhead perennials?

While it's true that there are some plants you shouldn't deadhead if you want to cater for wildlife, perennials are usually deadheaded throughout the growing season for various other benefits. In fact, there are lots of plants you should deadhead for a second bloom.

'Deadheading perennials is a common gardening practice that involves removing faded or spent flowers from the plant,' says Tim Marshall, head gardener at Raby Castle. 'The primary purpose of deadheading is to encourage plants to produce more blooms and improve overall aesthetics.'

But is it necessary? We asked garden experts for their take on whether you should deadhead perennials.

What you'll need

Deadheading isn't necessary for all perennials, but the general rule of thumb is that it's good practice, as long as you ensure you aren't making any common deadheading mistakes.

'While deadheading is not necessary for all perennial flowers, it can be beneficial for many species,' says Tim.

But what are the benefits?

'If you take the spent flowers off, it can boost the plant's blooming potential during the growing season,' says Jane Dobbs from Allan's Gardeners. 'It's great for perennials that bloom all year. Plus, by removing faded and unsightly flowers, deadheading helps keep the garden looking tidy and attractive.'

If you're wondering why deadheading is so effective, the answer is simple. 'Basically, it stops seeds from forming, so more energy goes to growing and blooming rather than seed production,' says Jane. 'Your plants will grow healthier and flower more.'

But deadheading perennials isn't just about bolstering your plants' flower power. 'Old and decaying flowers can spread diseases caused by rotting plant material, so removing them can reduce the chances,' Jane adds.

For this reason, it's important to make sure you're deadheading your perennials correctly. 'Cut the whole stem right down at the bottom,' advises Angela Slater, gardening expert at Hayes Garden World. 'Don’t just remove the head, otherwise you’ll be left with a lot of unsightly stems. Plus, leaving decaying matter on the plant could provide a home for fungal diseases which will weaken the whole plant.

'Mildew thrives in warm, dry conditions, so removing the spent stems will
allow airflow around the centre of the plant, too.'

Which perennials should you deadhead?

The list of perennials you should deadhead is long, but there are a few popular examples of plants that benefit particularly well.

'It is generally recommended to deadhead perennials that have a long blooming period or tend to have multiple flowering cycles,' says Tim from Raby Castle. 'Some examples of perennials that benefit from deadheading include Coreopsis, Salvia, coneflowers, and daisies.

'By removing the spent flowers on these plants, you can help prolong their blooming period and maintain their overall appearance.'

Other standout examples include daylilies, black-eyed Susans, geraniums and catmint, according to Jane from Allan's Gardeners. 'These perennials benefit from deadheading to encourage longer blooms and to improve their overall health.'

What happens if you don't deadhead perennials?

Although deadheading isn't always necessary, there are a few drawbacks to skipping the task.

'If you don't deadhead perennials, they'll channel their energy into seed production instead of blooming,' explains Jane from Allan's Gardeners. 'In the long run, this can lead to fewer blooms. Plus, having spent flowers in your garden can make it look untidy.'

Certain perennials will also begin to self-seed if you don't deadhead them, leading to unwanted plants spreading throughout your garden.

FAQs

How do you know when to deadhead perennials?

Like annuals, perennials will show tell-tale signs that they're in need of deadheading.

'To determine which perennial flowers to deadhead, a general rule of thumb is to remove spent flowers once they start to fade or wither,' says Tim from Raby Castle. 'Look for flowers that have turned brown or are no longer producing new flowers.

'Additionally, some plants may benefit from deadheading individual spent flowers rather than the entire flower cluster. Regular inspection and maintenance of your perennial plants will help you identify which flowers need deadheading to promote healthy growth and continued blooming.'

What perennial flowers should I not deadhead?

'Don’t deadhead any perennials which produce sculptural seed heads which can be made into Christmas decorations, or any which produce seeds for the birds,' advises Angela from Hayes Garden World. 'If your garden is lacking in interest over the winter, you could also leave the sculptural heads to provide a particularly pleasing sight in winter when there is a light covering of frost.'

So, should you deadhead perennials? While it isn't necessary for all plants, most will benefit, and you'll see the results in tidier floral displays that are full of life throughout the season.

If there's one thing we love, it's a comeback kid – especially when it comes to our garden – so sussing out the very best perennial plants, then, is an absolute must

Filling your outdoor space with perennials (aka plants and flowers that live for multiple growing seasons) is one of those budget-friendly garden ideas that never goes out of style.

Oh sure, there are a handful of perennials to avoid in the garden. And, sure, not all perennials live forever. But overall, perennials are a brilliant way to fill your outdoor space with colour and interest in every season, of course – and they're guaranteed to come back year after year, too.

There are, though, the experts really rate when it comes to filling your flower beds, garden borders, and even containers. We've asked them and these are the ones they'd recommend stocking up on.

1. Hardy geraniums

Nothing beats growing geraniums in window boxes or flowerbeds for a burst of vibrant colour. 'Hardy geraniums are excellent in general. My favourite, ‘Rozanne’, is a bushy mound-forming perennial with masses of beautiful, large (up to 5cm across), saucer-shaped, violet-blue flowers,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

'Flowering from June to September, these hardy plants are ideal for suppressing weeds at the front of a mixed or herbaceous border, and will keep your bees and other pollinators happy for months!'

Just be sure that this wildlife garden essential enjoys full sun to partial shade in fertile, well drained soil.

2. Switch grass

'Commonly known as switch grass, this deciduous, perennial grass grows to 1.8m tall, ideal for adding ground coverage where needed,' says Melbourne-born and London-based exterior designer Melanie Hick, who created the ‘Climate-Forward Garden’ – a Get Started garden at RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival.

'Not only that, but it adds some pretty colour too, with airy sprays of tiny, purple-green flowers produced from mid-summer to early-autumn, and the leaves themselves turning a beautiful rich reddish-purple colour later in the year,' she continues.

'Switch grass is proof that hardy plants can be both functional and beautiful, originating from North America, where it is dominant in prairie-land and famous for being both resource-efficient and low-maintenance – ideal for a sustainable, climate-forward garden.'

3. Salvia nemorosa

Considered to be one of the best perennial plants by experts, Morris says it's important to 'give salvia full sun or a little shade and they will cover ground quickly and provide spires of pretty colour from purple to pink'.

'Clumps can be divided every 3 to 4 years so you can grow even more free plants,' he adds, noting that they will grow to a maximum of about 50cm high.

'Your garden pollinators will love them, and they will carry on growing for years to come.'

3. Yarrow

'I added bursts of vibrant colour to my RHS Hampton Court garden by using Achillea Millefolium, or yarrow, a spreading perennial topped with domed flowerheads of small, dark pink rose-pink flowers,' says Melanie.

'This is a wonderful plant to introduce to gardens for wildlife – birds can use yarrow to line their nests, while many insects, including beetles and moths, feed on the plant. As a result, yarrow is often a favourite to use in butterfly gardens.'

One of the very best perennial plants, you can pick up your own Achillea millefolium 'Salmon Beauty' from Sarah Raven in pots of three or six.

4. Verbena bonariensis

'With its tall stem of bright lilac/purple flower heads, verbena is an easy plant to grow because it readily self seeds,' says Morris.

'The flowers are beneficial for pollinators and give willowy height in a herbaceous border. Used in flower arranging as well, verbena bonariensis will grow well in a warm, sunny garden space with well drained soil.'

5. Kniphofia

Another of Melanie's picks for the best perennial plants, 'Kniphofia, also known as red-hot pokers, boasts exotic looking flowers which add yet another pop of colour into climate-forward gardens'.

'They flower throughout much of the year – from March to November – so are ideal for adding colour into gardens through all but the winter,' she says.

'Colours are wild and varied – from red and orange, through to yellow and green, and even brown and pink. Growing up to 210cm, they are also ideal for adding some height and creating zones in gardens, or even privacy from neighbours!'

6. Bergenia

One of the best perennial plants for a part shady spot or a north-facing garden, Morris says that 'bergenia like well drained, good soil as they don’t grow so well in poor soil conditions – however that can lead to lovely reddish foliage in winter which looks great'.

Growing to a maximum height of 1.5m, it is a clumps-forming plant so over time will fill out a border,' he adds, noting that 'these can be split to keep in place or to produce new plants'.

7. Red Damask

The very best perennials add colour and interest to a garden all year long, something which this little beauty does in abundance.

'Adding vibrant hues to my RHS Hampton Court garden is Leptospermum scoparium, or ‘Red Damask’, a dense medium-sized shrub which will flower from late spring,' says Melanie.

'Those who love adding flashes of colour to their gardens will adore this plant, as it provides deep pink-reddish flowers, set off beautifully against narrow, dark-green leaves. These pops of bright colour against a backdrop of muted, warm hues are a key element of my garden design. The Red Damask is provides much of that interest, leading the eye around the garden.'

FAQs

What is the longest flowering perennial plant?

If you're looking for one of the longest flowering perennial plants, look to the salvias, the yarrows, and the kniphofias that are readily available online and in garden centres across the country.

What is the most popular perennial plant?

Lavender, sedum, and hardy geraniums are considered to be the most popular perennial plants. Not only are they all stunning, but they thrive in tricky conditions, too, making them the obvious choice for even the very greenest of gardeners.

Morris Hankinson of Hopes Grove Nurseries, however, adds that you shouldn't dismiss trees and shrubs when considering the best perennial plants for your garden.

'As the saying goes, "Yesterday is the time to plant a tree",' he explains. 'Shrubs and trees will grow for many years and there are so many to choose from depending on the size of your garden.'

Morris adds: 'From fruit trees beneficial for you and wildlife to trees that change foliage colour depending on the season, there is a tree or two for every garden. Shrubs are easy to maintain and will grow for many years and should always be considered for structure and interest in a garden.'

Now that you know the very best perennial plants around, all that's left for you to do is decide which you'd like to plant in your garden.

When you’re looking to fill your garden with flowers and foliage, perennials may seem like the way to go - and you’re not wrong. But you also need to be pretty choosey when deciding which perennials to buy, as you should avoid some perennials if you want a safe and healthy garden.

Essentially, a perennial is a plant that has a life cycle of over two years, meaning it provides luscious blooms year after year. And while a perennial’s ability to provide constant colour and vibrancy to an outdoor space is definitely a budget-friendly garden idea, it’s safe to say that some perennials also come with their challenges.

From invasive species that can quickly take over a small garden (and even a larger garden) to potentially deadly plants, these are the perennials to avoid. But don’t worry, we won’t leave you high and dry. We’ve also outlined safe alternatives to keep your garden bloomin’ lovely.

Perennials to avoid in the garden

‘Perennials can add colour, scent and personality to any garden,’ explains Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries. ‘However, there are some that are best avoided as they can be invasive or even toxic for animals and children.’ Thankfully, we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the perennials to avoid in the garden.

1. Purple loosestrife

When wandering around the garden centre looking for perennials to spruce up your garden borders, you may opt for the brightest and boldest plants on the shelf - and purple loosestrife definitely stands out from the crowd.

With its long stems and vivid blooms, it can add much-needed height and colour to your outdoor space. However, most experts would urge you to avoid this perennial.

Morris explains, ‘While Purple loosestrife is very striking to look at and a great plant to attract pollinators to your garden, its ability to self-seed means it can become invasive if not maintained properly.’

What to plant instead: If you love the tall, colourful nature of purple loosestrife, you’ll love lupins. Available in a variety of colours, they’ll bloom in the spring and die down in the winter. Just remember to deadhead lupins when they finish flowering.

Where to buy lupins:

• Thompson & Morgan: buy 'Russell Hybrids Mixed' bare root lupin plants.
• Dobies: stock up on lupin seeds to grow your own.

2. Rhododendrons

Sometimes the most beautiful plants are also the most deadly, and we’re sorry to say that rhododendrons are on that list. In fact, the rhododendron is just another plant to add to the list of pet-poisonous plants in the garden - and the problems don’t end there.

‘They might be beautiful but rhododendrons are toxic for dogs (and, if consumed in very large amounts, humans),’ explains Morris. ‘It's best to keep any furry friends away from this perennial!’

‘Even if you don't have a pet, you still need to be careful as to which species you plant as rhododendron ponticum is an invasive species that will take over your garden if not taken care of properly.’

And while it’s advisable to steer clear of this pesky perennial, you don’t have to avoid it completely if you can’t bear to have a garden sans rhododendrons. Just make sure you swot up on pruning rhododendrons and consider potting this plant up as part of your container garden.

What to plant instead: Although weigela is a deciduous shrub, it still looks very similar to the rhododendron. The trumpet-like flowers also come in a variety of colours, so you can choose some that suit your style.

Where to buy weigela:

• Primrose: buy a 2-litre pot of Weigela All Summer Peach.
• Crocus: brighten up your garden with weigela ‘Mango.’

3. Bamboo

If you didn’t already know, bamboo is a perennial - and a pretty unique one at that. And while its impressive growing skills make it a popular choice for garden screening, experts have issued warnings about invasive bamboo.

Yes, bamboo can quickly grow out of control, and ‘running’ varieties have the potential to grow up to 30ft away from the main plant, pushing through brick walls and even popping up through wooden floors. In one extreme case, a Hampshire family was faced with a £100K repair bill when bamboo invaded their home.

Because of this, most experts would urge homeowners to avoid this perennial at all costs. But if you really love the idea of blocking out your neighbours with bamboo, you’ll want to read up on how to stop bamboo from spreading.

What to plant instead: Looking for a climbing plant for pots? You can’t go wrong with jasmine. As well as providing efficient screening qualities, this plant will also provide your garden with a stunning scent.

Where to buy jasmine:

• Suttons: A wide variety of colours and sizes of climbing jasmine on offer.
• Primrose: Buy a potted climbing jasmine with a support cane, ready for planting.

4. Wisteria

Yes, we’re sad to see this one on the list too. After all, you probably don’t need us to tell you that wisteria has grown massively in popularity over the past few years - and we have a certain Netflix show to thank for that. But if you’re looking to turn your garden into a scene from Bridgerton, you might want to think twice.

Although wisteria is one of the most stunning perennials out there, it’s also extremely fast-growing, and the strength of the plant can be problematic if you don’t know how to prune wisteria.

So, if you’re a novice gardener and will struggle to train wisteria in the way that it needs to be trained, we’d suggest steering clear. But if you’re willing to give it a go, it’s probably best to choose one of the best wisteria for small gardens so you don’t get overwhelmed.

What to plant instead: Although climbing hydrangea is still a vigorous climber, it’s generally considered to be much easier to control than wisteria. Plus, it still offers Regency-style qualities with its giant flowerheads.

Where to buy climbing hydrangea:

• B&Q: buy a climbing hydrangea in a pot ready to be planted.
• Dobies: pick up a self-clinging climbing hydrangea for your garden.

5. Foxgloves

The Ideal Home team has gone a little foxglove mad recently. Seeing them dominate the 2024 RHS Chelsea Flower Show made us fall head over heels in love with them - but we’ve certainly questioned whether to grow foxgloves in our own gardens or not.

Morris explains, ‘Some refer to this as a short-lived perennial, while others class it as a biennial - either way, it's best to avoid it in your garden if you have pets or children as it's very toxic. Even a small amount could be fatal due to the cardiac glycosides which affect the heart.’

Yes, if you have kids (or even grandkids that use your garden as their own personal play park), it’s best to avoid this toxic plant for children. If you don’t have kids, however, you can get away with planting them - as long as don’t eat them!

What to plant instead: Penstemons are a great alternative to foxgloves. They offer the same bell-shaped blooms and aren’t toxic to animals or humans. Plus, you can buy them in a wide variety of colours.

Where to buy penstemons:

• Dobies: buy the low-maintenance Penstemon 'Ice Cream Collection'.
• Suttons: a variety of potted penstemon plants to choose from.

6. Japanese knotweed

When choosing perennials for your garden, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll ever come across Japanese knotweed at the garden centre. Still, we wouldn’t be doing our jobs properly if we didn’t tell you to avoid planting this perennial.

That’s because Japanese knotweed isn’t just a perennial. It’s actually perennial weed, and you can be prosecuted for causing it to spread into the wild. That’s why you should always know how to get rid of Japanese knotweed.

Morris adds, ‘This herbaceous perennial is definitely not something you want to see spreading in your garden. Japanese Knotweed is a very invasive weed that needs to be removed immediately. You may be unable to sell your home if Japanese Knotweed is on your property and a certificate is required to prove it has been removed professionally.’

What to plant instead: Most people don’t choose to have Japanese knotweed in their gardens, but you can choose to enjoy the greenery of hostas. They’re a great bedding plant for shade, and the foliage is absolutely stunning.

Where to buy hostas:

• Crocus: buy potted hostas to fill your garden.
• Dobies: opt for Hosta 'Giant Leaved Mix' bare root plants.

7. Ox-eye daisy

If you’re looking to turn a corner of your garden into a wildflower haven, you may be attracted to the ox-eye daisy - and we wouldn’t blame you. This perennial wildflower looks like a giant daisy, and can add some all-important height and vibrancy to your garden.

But the problem with many wildflowers is that they can quickly grow out of control, and that’s why you should avoid this perennial in your garden. If left to its own devices, it will overtake your garden and even push out your other plants.

And while you could try and control the growth of ox-eye daisies in your garden, you’ll probably be fighting a losing battle. So, opt for something else.

What to plant instead: If you love the bright colours and impressive flowerheads of the ox-eye daisy, you’ll love chrysanthemums. Easy to grow and with many different varieties out there, this is definitely a perennial to add to your garden.

Where to buy chrysanthemums:

• Crocus: buy the 'Clara Curtis' chrysanthemums in pots.
• Thompson & Morgan: choose from bushy or more traditional chrysanthemum varieties.

8. Buddleja

Whether you know it as buddleja, buddleia, or butterfly bush, there’s no denying that the cone-shaped flowers of this perennial are absolutely stunning. They also come in a variety of colours, making it seemingly perfect for a cottage garden idea.

But buddleja is considered to be an invasive species in the UK, and is known for popping up on roundabouts, wasteland, and even along railway lines. And even if you know when to cut buddleja back, you may still struggle to control its growth.

So, it’s probably best to find other ways to encourage wildlife in your garden.

What to plant instead: If your aim is to invite butterflies into the garden, opt for a lavender plant instead. It’s easy to care for and will come back year after year, with a delicious scent in tow.

Where to buy lavender:

• Sarah Raven: buy three lavender pots for under £15.
• Thompson & Morgan: a variety of lavender sizes and pots on offer.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of perennials?

One of the biggest disadvantages of perennials is that they often take a few years to establish themselves. So, if you’re looking for immediate blooms, you may have to opt for something else.

Alongside this, perennials tend to have a shorter flowering period compared to annuals and they also take up more space. This only gets worse as they grow bigger each year, which means that you’ll have less space to grow other plants and crops in your garden.

Another disadvantage of perennials is that they offer less design versatility. When you commit to planting perennials, you’re also committing to those same colours and that same aesthetic for the next few years. If you were to choose annuals, however, you could mix up your garden design idea each year.

What is an example of a perennial problem?

A huge perennial problem is that many perennials can quickly grow out of hand and are invasive in nature. And while pruning and cutting back these perennials can potentially keep them in check, many perennials will continue to grow and take over your garden.

In some cases, perennials can grow so out of hand that they overpower your other plants and can even cause structural damage to your home.

Because of this, it’s best to choose your perennials wisely.

Just because you should avoid these perennials in the garden doesn’t mean that they’re all off the cards. So, just make sure you do your research!

If you're looking to fill your garden with beautiful blooms affordably then now is the time to stock up on perennials either as seedlings or plug plants at the garden centre.

You can buy perennials at the garden centre all year round, but now is the perfect time to pick them up as small specimens which are a far more budget-friendly garden idea than buying larger more established plants. 

'The word "perennial" means that the flower lives for multiple growing seasons,' explains Fantastic Gardeners' plant and gardening expert, Peter Ivanov. Since you don't have to keep repurchasing them every season, this is what makes perennials such a great investment for the garden as they will simply bloom when they're in season, adding colour to your garden with little to no effort.'

'Small-sized perennials are much more affordable compared to larger plants, making them a budget-friendly option for filling your garden with colour and beauty,' adds Tim Marshall, head gardener at Raby Castle. 

'By planting them now, you can enjoy their blooms in the upcoming summer months, adding a burst of colour and charm to your garden. I like to plant smaller specimens in my garden, as they establish much more quickly and reliably than larger specimens and as previously mentioned they cost a great deal less,' he assures. 

For example, at Suttons you can pick up 72 perennial plug plants for just £20. However, 15 garden-ready plants come in at around £10, which means you'd have to invest in quite a few more bundles to fill your garden border ideas up.

'When selecting small perennials at the garden centre, there are a few tips to consider to ensure their success in your garden. Firstly, it's important to choose plants that are well-suited to your garden's growing conditions, including sunlight exposure, soil type, and moisture levels,' explains Tim.

'By selecting plants that are suitable for your specific garden environment, you'll increase their chances of thriving and producing abundant displays.'

As well as these perennials, it's worth having a look at what else to plant in April as there are so many beautiful blooms waiting to be had.

Best perennials to buy now

When in doubt, it's worth simply popping into your local garden centre and seeing what they've got available right now and doing that every season until you've got a garden filled with beautiful plants that'll come to life in their respective seasons.