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When to Plant Bedding Plants in the UK (& How to Do It)
Bedding plants are a brilliant way to add colour and life to your garden. But knowing the right time when to plant bedding plants is key to ensure they thrive and bloom to their full potential.
From classic pansies and petunias to vibrant geraniums and marigolds, bedding plants are a very popular and common sight in gardens across the UK. These plants are usually annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle within one year and will need to be replanted every spring season.
So when is the best time to plant bedding plants in the UK? We’ve got all the answers you’re looking for below…
What Are ‘Bedding Plants’?
Bedding plants, sometimes known as annuals, are plants that are grown from seed and planted in flower beds or containers for a single growing season.
They bloom in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes, and their main purpose is to provide a temporary, decorative show of colour for garden beds, raised beds, borders or containers.
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Popular bedding plants include:
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Generally planted closely together by the trayful in flower beds, they can also be transplanted when well-grown as young plants.
When Should You Plant Bedding Flowers in the UK?
You should plant summer bedding plants in May or the start of June in the UK. This is when the weather starts to warm up and the risk of frost has passed.
You won't have to wait long for them to flower, either, as bedding plants will bloom beautifully all summer long, and can be followed by more bedding plants for autumn.
It's key that you only plant them when the risk of frost has completely passed. If you plant them too early, they may not survive the cold temperatures and will struggle to thrive.
8 Best Vegetables to Grow in May
Can You Plant Bedding Plants in Autumn?
Whilst most people tend to plant bedding plants in spring, there are some varieties that can be planted in autumn to provide colour and beauty throughout the colder months, like pansies.
Successional planting is also a great way to ensure your garden remains colourful all year round.
By planting some bedding plants in spring and others in autumn, you can create a beautiful display that lasts through multiple seasons.
How & Where to Plant Bedding Plants
As for where you should plant your bedding plants, it's entirely up to you! They can be planted in flower beds, raised beds, borders, containers or hanging baskets. Just make sure they have enough space to grow and spread their roots.
You'll also need to consider the variety of plant, as some will prefer conditions that others may not. For example, some prefer full sun while others thrive in partial shade.
To plant bedding plants, simply follow these steps:
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One of the great things about bedding plants is how easy and low maintenance they are to grow. The only attention they may need is regular watering and feeding, depending on the variety.
Our Gardening Essentials for Growing Bedding Plants
Every year when we plant our summer bedding plants, we always use our trusty gardening essentials to ensure they grow and bloom beautifully.
We've already mentioned weed control fabric, which is a must-have for keeping your flower beds weed-free. You can lay this down before planting to help reduce the amount of weeding you will have to do later on.
Our Heavy-Duty Weed Control membrane is excellent for this, and it's very easy to cut and position in your flower beds.
A lovely wooden planter or hanging basket is also a great way to showcase your bedding plants, adding an extra element of style and charm to your garden.
We personally love the Rowlinsons Wooden Planters, which we have in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit all gardens. the Three-Tier Marberry Corner Cascade Planter is perfect for planting a variety of bedding plants, and the natural timber finish adds a rustic touch.
Having a quality set of hand gardening tools is also essential for planting and maintaining your bedding plants. We always recommend Burgon & Ball when it comes to gardening tools, as they are durable and great value for money.
Essentials for growing bedding plants:
Our Planters...
Key Takeaways: Growing Beautiful Bedding Plants in the UK
We love bedding plants as much as any keen gardener, and the key to growing them successfully is all about timing and preparation.
Remember, May to early June is the optimal time to plant summer bedding plants in the UK, and always make sure you protect them from frost. You can also consider planting some varieties in autumn for a beautiful display all year round.
When it comes to planting, make sure you have the right tools and essentials to help your bedding plants thrive.
And don't forget, regular watering and feeding will also ensure they bloom beautifully all season long!
FAQs
What Are the Best Flowers to Plant in Autumn?
Some of the best flowers to plant in autumn are pansies, violas, primroses and chrysanthemums.
What Should I Do With Summer Bedding Plants in Autumn?
You can compost old summer bedding plants in autumn, or you can leave them in the ground to decompose, adding nutrients back into the soil.
How Late Can You Plant Summer Bedding Plants?
We wouldn't recommend planting summer bedding plants any later than early June. If planted too late, they may struggle to bloom and thrive in time for the summer season.
Can You Plant Bedding Plants in September?
You can very well plant some varieties of bedding plants in September, such as pansies and violas. However, it's important to check the specific variety's planting instructions and hardiness zone before planting. Autumn bedding plants will be perfectly fine to plant in September, but summer beddings should be planted in May/June.
