Flower Seeds to Sow in October

As October settles in throughout the UK, the garden begins to shift its focus from the vibrant blooms of summer to the quieter beauty of autumn. While many flowering plants have already completed their season, don’t be discouraged—this month still holds plenty of opportunity for gardeners who want to sow seeds for the future. Although it’s generally too late to plant most flowering varieties for blooms this year, October is a perfect time to prepare for a stunning showcase in the spring and sow a few houseplants to brighten your indoor spaces.

For those looking to enhance their indoor environment, October is also a wonderful time to explore houseplants that thrive in the cooler months. So, whether you’re looking to prepare your garden for next season or bring some autumn cheer indoors, October offers a range of exciting options. Let’s explore the best flowering plants you can sow this month and how they can elevate your garden and home!

Anemone

Flowering Months: April to July

Anemones are delightful perennials known for their striking blooms and versatility in the garden. Available in a range of species, they can feature cup-shaped flowers in colours like white, pink, and purple, making them a fantastic addition to any flower bed. Typically blooming from early spring to late autumn, anemones thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. They are well-suited for borders, container gardening, or woodland settings, and their foliage adds lovely texture throughout the growing season. With proper care, anemones can return year after year, providing vibrant colour and charm in your garden.

Cactus (Houseplant)

Flowering Months: Throughout the Year

Cactus houseplants are a smart choice for anyone looking to add a unique touch to their indoor spaces. Known for their unusual shapes and minimal care requirements, these hardy plants thrive in bright, sunny spots and require only occasional watering. Cacti come in various forms, from small, round varieties to taller, columnar types, allowing you to mix and match for visual interest. Their ability to store water means they can withstand longer periods between watering, making them perfect for busy households. With their intriguing textures and the occasional stunning flower, cactus houseplants bring the beauty of the desert into your home.

Coleus

Flowering Months: June to October

Coleus is a popular foliage plant celebrated for its vibrant, multicoloured leaves. Ranging in hues from deep burgundy to bright lime green, the leaves often feature intricate patterns that can brighten up any garden space. Typically growing to heights of 30 to 60cm, coleus thrives in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade, making it an excellent choice for areas that don’t receive full sun. With minimal maintenance, it’s perfect for borders, containers, or hanging baskets. Coleus is not only visually appealing but also easy to grow, allowing you to enjoy colourful foliage throughout the growing season.

Laurentia

Flowering Months: July to September

Laurentia, also known as blue star or Laurentia fluviatilis, is a charming perennial that adds a splash of colour to rock gardens and borders. Growing to around 20 to 30cm in height, it thrives best in well-drained soil and enjoys full sun. This plant produces stunning star-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of blue, creating a wonderful contrast against its lush green foliage. Blooms typically appear in summer, attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies. With its low maintenance requirements and ability to tolerate dry conditions, laurentia is an excellent choice for enhancing garden aesthetics with cheerful colour.

Sensitive Plant

Flowering Months: June to September

The Sensitive Plant, or Mimosa pudica, is an intriguing perennial known for its unique responsiveness to touch. Typically growing to heights of 30 to 60cm, this tropical plant thrives best in warm, well-drained soil and enjoys partial shade. The delicate, fern-like leaves fold up when touched, creating an engaging spectacle for anyone nearby. In summer, it produces soft pink, fluffy flowers that enhance its charm. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening, the Sensitive Plant is a fun, educational addition to any space and can spark curiosity in both children and adults alike.

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