A  sample year of growing flowers in containers.

I always find it helpful to see what other gardeners grow during which months. The different weather zones shift the time period from region to region, but there are definitively specific flowers that grow only in spring and the annuals that grow in summer and fall.

You wouldn’t think you could grow all the flowers you’d find in a cottage garden in a bunch of pots but you absolutely can! With the right container soil mix, good irrigation, and the right pots you can grow and enjoy seasonal flowers—all it takes is a bit of planning. 

Early Spring brings the unique flowers.

Early spring denotes a shifting period of time depending on the zone in which you live. In zone 10b early spring goes from January through March. In zone 7 it will hit in February and March. Make sure you know your growing zone to figure out your timespan for the seasons. Definitely keep a garden journal from year to year to know when spring bulbs planted in the fall start poking out of the ground. This is especially useful since microclimates can veer you off from your officially designated growing zone. 

Early Spring flowers

• Crocus

• Iris

• Hellebores

• Violas

• Hyacinths

• Polyanthus

Late Spring is all about delicate paper-like petals.

Late Spring is typically from March through May. This time period tends to be an explosion of Narcissi and Tulips. There are other flowers that are perfect for this time period, and if you’re able to plant a variety, you’ll enjoy beautiful bouquets well into the season.

Late Spring Flowers

• Narcissi

• Tulips

• Anemones

• Ranunculus

• Poppies

Early Summer explodes with scent.

This time period typically ranges from May to June. Roses have their first flush and sweet peas have finally grown to their full potential. Early summer bouquets are among my favorites for all the gorgeous smells these blooms can bring.

Early Summer Flowers

• Roses

• Sweet Peas

• Salvias

• Nicotiana

• Calendula

• Sweet Willian (biennial)

• Foxglove (poisonous)

Late summer revels in the full glory of annuals.

From July through early September, the annuals fill the garden. The dahlias are finally blooming alongside brilliantly colored zinnias. This time period is a feast for the senses.

Late Summer Flowers

• Dahlias

• Zinnias

• Celosia

• Phlox

• Jasmine

• Lavender

• Cosmos

• Cup and Saucer vine

• Black-Eyed Susan

• Sunflowers

Early Autumn is the domain of the dahlia.

Dahlia’s colors are richest in September and October. The tubers have burst from the ground to  take over the garden with their exuberant shows of color. Cuttings from the early autumn are what flower-stand dreams are made of.

Early Autumn Flowers

• Dahlias

• Zinnias

• Cosmos

Late Autumn brings Chrysanthemums.

The dahlias last up to the first frost but chrysanthemums keep going well into the chill. Fall bouquets are a stunning array of deep, earthy hues that light up the table as the seasons begin to darken

Late Autumn Flowers

• Chrysanthemums

• Dahlias

• Nasturtiums

• Scented Geranium

Winter brings the forced bulbs.

The garden is asleep waiting for early spring again, but the Amaryllis is just waking up. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience these incredible flowers. They appear just once, but they are so worth the wait!

Winter Flowers

• Amaryllis