pansies

Annuals are plants that grow, flower and die within a year. They are popular in gardens for adding colour and seasonal interest. Annuals are planted each year as seed or seedling. Seeds are sown one to two seasons before flowering time. Growing from seedling shortens the length of time between planting and flowering, so seedlings for winter and early spring...

From snapdragon to stock, a sprinkling of edible flowers will transform your next meal from everyday to gourmet. Here are 11 of our favourite flowers to feast on.   Daisy Bellis perennis Create a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds with common daisies. The subtle-tasting petals make a lovely garnish for savoury dishes, like sandwiches, soups and salads. For...

Creating a fairy garden is a fun and creative gardening activity for kids (that’s sure to bring out your inner child too) - the perfect way to get them outside when isolation boredom hits. Here are nine of our favourite fairy garden plants for a magical miniature world no fairy will be able to resist.   Where to locate your fairy...

As the days begin to cool, a new wave of colour invades the garden. Clockwise from top left: Japanese maple, pin oak, azaleas, crepe myrtle.   Colours glow as Japanese maples turn fiery red, crimson and gold. In cooler spots, pin oak will turn a brilliant scarlet and the orange leaves of the crepe myrtle make a last splash of...

With careful planning it is possible to have something blooming in a shaded garden all year round.

One look at their bright, happy faces explains their popularity.

Some flower in spring, some in summer, some in autumn and some in winter. By changing the varieties through the year you can add splashes of colour that will define the changing seasons.