As November arrives in the UK, the landscape transitions into its quieter winter phase. While the vibrant blooms of summer have faded, this month offers a unique opportunity for gardeners to focus on preparation and planning for the seasons ahead. Unfortunately, it’s generally too late to sow most flowering plants that would bloom this year, but don’t be discouraged! There are still a few options available to keep your gardening spirit alive.
November is an excellent time to consider sowing certain hardy varieties that can establish themselves over the colder months, setting the stage for a spectacular spring display. Planting these now ensures you’ll enjoy their lovely blooms as soon as warmer weather arrives next year. Additionally, November is perfect for planting bare-root fruit trees and shrubs, which will thrive as they settle into the ground during dormancy.
For those looking to enhance their indoor environment, this month is perfect for exploring houseplants that can thrive in winter.
So, whether you’re eager to get a head start on next year’s garden or simply looking to bring some greenery indoors, November provides an excellent opportunity to sow seeds and keep your gardening passion alive. Let’s explore the best flowering plants to sow this month, ensuring your garden remains vibrant and dynamic for future seasons!
Anemone
- Flowering Months: April to July
Anemones are charming perennials that add a delightful touch to gardens with their striking blooms. Known for their distinctive cup-shaped flowers, they come in various shades, including white, pink, and purple. Typically blooming from midsummer to late autumn, anemones thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. Their foliage is also attractive, providing greenery throughout the growing season. Anemones are perfect for borders, mixed flower beds, or even woodland gardens, as they can naturalise beautifully. With proper care, these lovely plants will return year after year, bringing colour and character to your garden.
Cactus (Houseplant)
- Flowering Months: Throughout the Year
Cactus houseplants are fantastic for those who appreciate unique beauty and low maintenance. These hardy plants come in many shapes and sizes, making them suitable for home or office decor. They thrive in bright light and require minimal watering, which makes them perfect for busy lifestyles. Cacti can feature intriguing spines and, in some cases, vibrant flowers that add visual interest. As they store water, they can withstand periods of drought, making them incredibly resilient. Cactus houseplants brighten your space and serve as excellent conversation starters, showcasing their individual charm.
Coleus
- Flowering Months: June to October
Coleus is a colourful foliage plant known for its striking, multicoloured leaves. With various hues, from deep burgundy to bright lime green, these plants can create a vibrant display in any garden or home. Growing to heights of 30 to 60cm, coleus thrives in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade, making it perfect for garden borders or containers that don’t receive full sun. The intricate leaf patterns add visual texture throughout the growing season. With minimal care, coleus can bring lasting colour and life to your outdoor spaces, making it a delightful choice for any gardener.
Laurentia
- Flowering Months: July to September
Laurentia, commonly known as blue star, is a lovely perennial that thrives in sunny conditions and well-drained soil. Typically growing to 20 to 30cm heights, it’s well-suited for rock gardens or as a border plant. Laurentia produces stunning star-shaped blue flowers that bloom profusely in summer, creating a beautiful contrast against its green foliage. This hardy plant attracts pollinators and adds a cheerful colour to your garden. With its low maintenance requirements, laurentia is ideal for novice and experienced gardeners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces with lovely blooms.
Sensitive Plant
- Flowering Months: June to September
The Sensitive Plant, or Mimosa pudica, is a fascinating perennial known for its unique response to touch. Typically growing 30 to 60cm tall, this intriguing plant thrives in warm, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade. Its delicate, fern-like leaves fold up when disturbed, creating a mesmerising spectacle that captures curiosity. In summer, the Sensitive Plant produces soft pink, fluffy flowers that enhance its charm. This engaging characteristic makes it especially popular among children and those new to gardening. Easy to care for and visually appealing, the Sensitive Plant is an excellent addition to outdoor gardens and houseplant collections.
Check out the RHS page here.
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From Darren’s Patch
November might feel like the wind-down of the gardening year, but I always see it as a quiet moment to lay the groundwork for what’s to come. One of my favourite things is popping a few anemone bulbs into the ground — I think it is planting a promise. Come spring, those cheery blooms feel like a reward for thinking ahead. Indoors, I love keeping a few cacti in sunny spots; they’re so easy to care for and add a bit of quirky structure to the room. And if you’ve never grown a Sensitive Plant, give it a go — even as an adult, I still get a kick out of watching the leaves respond to touch! November proves that even in the season’s stillness, there’s always something meaningful to grow.
