After a long winter, there’s nothing quite like the prospect of an abundance of bright, beautiful flowers popping up in the forecast. And whether you’re starting from scratch or adding to a garden you’ve had for years, this is the time to amp up the color with the help of a few seed packets, bulbs and cuttings. But if you’re seeking some inspiration before the perspiration that comes with digging in, look no further. Here, we tour a variety of plots—full sun, partial shade, coastal, sloped and more—and get expert advice about the plants that work best in each. We check in with a couple who grows more than 50 kinds of roses and another gardener who has a fair number of butterfly- attracting monarda. We even pop by a “kid-friendly” space where hardy-but-handsome flowers bravely stand by a soccer goal. In short, we’ve got time- tested flower solutions that are right for almost any problem area, so that you, too, can stop and smell the roses (or dahlias or geraniums)!
from the editor
Getting Started • There’s nothing more exciting than a floral-filled space. But before you shovel even one scoop of dirt, think about a few key items that will keep your garden blooming and booming.
On the Edge • Coming up with a comprehensive garden plan can be overwhelming. To make things simple, just remember: Good stories start with an outline.
Tough Stuff • THESE BOLD BLOOMS PUT THE PETALS TO THE METTLE.
Fun in the Sun • While shady spots are in short supply, there’s no dearth of delight in this south-facing garden thanks to an abundance of dahlias, marigolds, roses and a whole lot more.
Sunny Delights • THESE FLOWERS SHINE BRIGHT IN FULL-SUN CONDITIONS.
ONES TO GROW ON • Doreen Wood shares her top tips for creating a sunny sanctuary.
In the Shadows • A married set of gardeners proves there’s plenty of opportunity for floral-and-foliage wonder in darker and sun-dappled spots.
Under Cover • GOT A TRACT THAT’S ON THE DARK SIDE? LIGHTEN THE MOOD WITH THESE FUN FLOWERS.
Country Charm • It took a lot of patience—and a very green thumb—but an Essex gardener managed to turn an overgrown plot into a lush-and-lovely spot.
ONES TO GROW ON! • Anne Harris shares her top tips for caring for roses.
A Rose By Any Other Name • ADD SOME A-LIST TALENT TO YOUR COTTAGE GARDEN.
Pots of Gold • Flower-filled vessels ranging from classic terra-cotta to vintage finds bring an extra splash of personality and color to an outdoor oasis.
ONES TO GROW ON! • Food for thought as you add flower-filled pots to an outdoor spot.
Planting Possibilities • SOMETIMES THE BEST FORMS OF DISPLAY ARE OUT-OF-THE-BOX.
Labor of Love • With a little luck and a lot of learning, a pair of novice gardeners transformed a bare-bones garden into a blooming success.
ONES TO GROW ON • The Krietes offer their top tips when growing and caring for roses. “Roses are idiosyncratic queens and want to be loved, cared for almost all year round,” says Anneliese.
Repurposed With Purpose • LAYER IN ANTIQUE TREASURES WITH YOUR ANTIQUE ROSES.
Paradise Found • Taking her cues from the Mediterranean, a gardener creates a sumptuous spot on a slope.
ONES TO GROW ON • Pattie Barron offers some hope for working on a slope.
Hot Shots • ADD A FEW MORE DROUGHT-TOLERANT BLOOMS TO YOUR MEDITERRANEAN OASIS.
Symphony by the Sea • In her quest to create a concert of color, a determined flower lover overcomes high winds, salty conditions and a boggy backyard.
ONES TO GROW ON • Sue Palmer on how (and why!) hardy geraniums have become her beachside go-to.
The Way of Water • A FEW MORE FLOWERS THAT WILL MAKE THE MOST OF THE COAST.
Up, Up & Away • Vining plants soar to great...
