When we think of winter, we mostly think of it as a season when the cityscape is cold and grey, and our greens are less green. While it is true that most plants go into dormancy during winter to save energy and spring back up again in the warmer season, many plants love the chill in the air and start blossoming as the temperature dips. Today, let us discuss some of the most popular flowering plants that flourish in the winter and how to take care of them.
A Splash of Color With Petunia
Petunias are the stars of the winter season in North India. They are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of red, pink, white, purple, and, if you are lucky, even blue. The flowers have a vigorous growth habit and stay on the stems for at least 2-3 days before wilting, after which new blossoms appear. They are the perfect winter-season flowers and grow well in the ground and pots.
How to Grow Petunias:
Petunias are easy-to-grow flowering plants and only create a little fuss over their care requirements. They love the winters, but you must place them in well-draining soil so the roots don’t get their feet soaked in water. Water the plants when the top layer of the soil looker dry and flaky. Water deeply so it reaches the bottom of the planter and drains out at the bottom of the pot. Keep deadheading the spent flowers, and you’re good to go.
Conquer Winter Season With Pansy
Pansies are one of the most hardy winter plants. They are uniquely attractive in bright yellow, purple and blue shades. What is most appealing about the pansy flowering plants is the shape of the face on its petals, which can be recognised from afar. They love the winters and continue to blossom even when the temperature dips by the day. They are an excellent choice for a bright, cheery home garden.
How to Grow Pansies:
Pansies grow quickly and require only a little care for their basic needs. They are a perfect choice for winter gardens in India and thrive in well-draining soil and lots of sunlight. Plant them in a brightly lit corner of your garden or as a focal point, and watch them flourish.
Verbena, The Delicate Beauty
Verbena are gorgeous flowers that bloom in clusters. They are some of the most adaptable flowers, growing in winter in shades of red, purple, pink, and white. Verbena can be hung in pretty baskets or planted in shallow planters. Even though the plant looks delicate, it is sturdy and can thrive in harsh winters.
How to Grow Verbena:
Verbena thrives in well-draining soil and loves full sunlight. Water it when the topsoil is dry to the touch. The plant does not like wet feet, so ensure you are not overwatering it. One of the most enticing things about verbena is that it attracts scores of bees and butterflies in search of its juicy nectar. If you wish to plant winter flower seeds, Verbena is an excellent choice.
Glowing Gardens With Marigold
Marigolds are one of the most popular plants in the Indian household. They are used in poojas and other religious ceremonies, and we decorate our homes with them at festivals and even use them as a colouring dye. The plants are known for their bright yellow and orange colour, which looks like splashes of colour in your garden.
How to Grow Marigolds:
Marigolds love the winters and love to be planted in well-draining soil. Water the plant when the soil looks dry and crumbly. If unsure, stick your finger in the soil to check for moisture and water accordingly. One of the best things about marigolds is that they are excellent pest repellants and are great for companion planting.
Dazzle with Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are majestic flowers that bloom when temperatures start falling, and a pleasant chill is in the air. They are often called ‘mums’ and are the quintessential winter flowers.
From pastels to bright shades, mums are found in various shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and orange, bringing attention to your space.
How to Grow Chrysanthemums:
Water your plants only when the top layer of the soil looks dry and flaky. This ensures that the plant's root system remains healthy and is not waterlogged. Watering your plants only when the topsoil looks dry and flaky will help your plants thrive repeatedly throughout the season, producing more blooms.
Final Thoughts and Beginning Of A New Garden
Winter does not have to mean a dull, lifeless garden. Instead, when all the other places look mundane and grey, your home garden can be the source of joy and cheer in an otherwise dreary scape. So grow these beautiful flowering plants in pots or in the garden. They are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Happy gardening!
1 Comment
Leave a Reply