As the days grow longer and the sun warms the soil, April brings an air of excitement to gardeners across the UK. With winter firmly behind and spring in full swing, this is a time of rejuvenation and renewal in your garden. April offers a wealth of opportunities to plant a variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs that will thrive in the increasingly favourable conditions. In this article, we’ll explore what to plant in your UK garden in April to ensure a season of abundant growth and beauty.
1. Delightful Daffodils & Tulips: Extending the Flower Show
April is the last chance to plant daffodil and tulip bulbs for a splendid display of colour next spring. While it might seem a distant reward, the effort you put into planting these bulbs now will be rewarded with breathtaking blooms that herald the arrival of warmer days.
2. Hardy Annuals: Nasturtiums, Calendula & Sweet Peas
Hardy annuals like nasturtiums, calendula, and sweet peas can be sown directly into the ground in April. These robust plants withstand cooler temperatures and offer an explosion of vibrant colors throughout the summer months. Nasturtiums can also double as a natural pest repellent, making them a valuable addition to any garden.
3. Spring Vegetables: Carrots, Beets & Radishes
April marks the prime time for sowing a variety of spring vegetables. Carrots, beets, and radishes are among the vegetables that can be sown directly into the soil. With the soil warming up, these crops will germinate and establish themselves quickly, yielding fresh produce for your table.
4. Fragrant Herbs: Lavender, Rosemary & Sage
Herb enthusiasts can start planting fragrant favourites like lavender, rosemary, and sage in April. These herbs thrive in the sunnier and milder conditions of spring, infusing your garden with delightful aromas while providing versatile culinary and medicinal benefits.
5. Fruit Trees & Bushes: Cherries, Plums & Blackberries
If you missed the window for planting fruit trees and bushes in March, fear not – April still offers a chance to add to your garden’s edible bounty. Cherries, plums, and blackberries can be planted now, with careful attention to proper spacing and soil preparation.
6. Climbing Vines: Clematis, Honeysuckle & Jasmine
For vertical interest and added visual appeal, consider planting climbing vines such as clematis, honeysuckle, and jasmine. These vines will begin to reach for the sky in April, and their blooms and foliage will add dimension and beauty to walls, trellises, and fences.
7. Perennials: Peonies, Irises & Day-lilies
April is an excellent time to plant perennial favourites like peonies, irises, and day-lilies. These plants establish their root systems during the spring, ensuring robust growth and stunning displays for years to come.
April is a month of abundance and possibility in the UK garden. The warming weather and longer days create the perfect conditions for a wide range of plants to thrive. Whether you’re eager to enjoy the vibrant colors of flowers, the flavors of homegrown vegetables, or the fragrance of fresh herbs, April is your canvas for cultivating a thriving garden oasis. By embracing this season of growth and renewal, you’re not only investing in your garden’s future beauty but also sowing the seeds of joy and connection with nature. So, don your gardening gloves and seize the opportunity to make your UK garden bloom with life and vitality this April.