Winter is knocking at our doorsteps, as we start to feel the first nip in the air and the crisp winter breeze in the mornings. Winter days are magical, as the seasonal flowers start blooming and there is color everywhere. While the season may bring in dormancy for a few plants, there are many winter flowering plants that are at the top of their bloom in the colder months. In this blog, let us understand how to care for your flowering plants in the season of white and gray.
Pansies
Come winters, come the stunning Pansy season. The pansy flowers are one of the most popular flowering plants in India. These charming little flowers come in many vibrant shades including purple, yellow, blue, and white. Pansies thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand the frost season too.
How to care: Pansies thrive in the winter season and prefer well-draining soil and regular watering. They also require at least 6-7 hours of sunlight.
Marigolds
Marigold plants are the staple plants of the Indian household and are also considered sacred. The flowers of the plant are used as offerings to deities and its pleasant fragrance keeps the garden delightful. Marigolds are very easy to grow from seeds and are often used to make garlands, which are an essential part of any Indian festivals and ceremonies. The Marigold is a hardy plant and adds a pop of color and joy to gardens.
How to care: Marigolds are sunlight lovers and there is no such thing as too much sunlight. Water the plant when the topsoil looks dry.
Petunias
Petunias are the winter fairies of the garden that come in shades such as pink, magenta, purple, red, deep blue, and white. These trumpet-shaped flowers are available throughout the winter season and last a little longer too. Regular deadheading and fertilization will encourage bloom growth and healthy development of the plant.
How to care: Petunias are sun-loving plants and are happiest with at leats 6-7 hours of sunlight and regular watering.
Camellias
Camellias are spectacular, elegant, and evergreen shrubs that burst into bloom during the winter months. They have glossy dark green glossy foliage and flowers that resemble the rose-flower. They can prove to be true gems of any garden and are frequently found in the cooler regions of the Himalayas. The sight of the Camellia plant is a breathtaking sight.
How to care: Camellias require slightly acidic soil for the flowers to bloom and a little nip in the air with lots of sunlight.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, often called ‘mums’, are a gardener’s delight and a classic choice for winter gardens. These hardy flowering plants come in a large variety of colors such as magenta, orange, red, white, and many more. The chrysanthemum is a versatile plant that is often used for floral decorations and arrangements.
How to care: Chrysanthemums prefer well-draining soil and thrive with plenty of sunlight.
Hollyhocks
Hollyhocks are the show-stoppers of the winter garden with their large heads bobbing up and down in the winter breeze. Their large cup-shaped flowers in vibrant colors create a stunning display in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. The hollyhock plants attract a large number of pollinator insects such as bees and butterflies.
How to care: Hollyhocks prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
Conclusion
Whether you are an experienced gardener or a newbie, you can start your own winter garden and add the above beauties to make your home look ready for the cold season. So, embrace the chill and let your garden bloom with the magic of winter flowers in India.