Easy Blooms for Autumn/ Winter
As the golden leaves begin to fall and the crisp air wraps around us, there’s something magical about tending to a garden in the quieter seasons. At Olee & Bloom, we believe every season offers its own little joys, and autumn is the perfect time to plant for a burst of winter colour. Whether you're working with a garden, balcony, or window box, here are a few simple yet stunning flowers and plants that can be planted now ready to bloom and brighten the colder months.
Pansies, are an autumn-winter classic, bringing soft velvety petals and cheerful pops of colour even in the frost. They’re hardy little blooms that keep flowering through colder days, perfect for adding charm to borders or pots. Plant them in well-drained soil and keep them in partial sun — a light feed once a month will keep them going strong.
Violas, often confused with pansies, are their daintier cousins and just as hardy. They're ideal for containers and hanging baskets and will bloom right through winter if regularly deadheaded. Violas love moist but not soggy soil and benefit from a sheltered spot to protect them from harsh winds.
Winter-flowering heather is a low-maintenance evergreen that adds soft colour and texture. It thrives in acidic soil and makes a lovely ground cover. Plant now in a sunny spot and water well until it’s established. Heather doesn’t need much fuss — it’s a quietly beautiful addition that just gets on with it.
Hellebores, also known as the Christmas Rose, begin to bloom in late winter and bring a serene elegance to any space. They prefer partial shade and humus-rich soil. Planting them now allows their roots to settle ahead of their cold-weather show. Mulch around the base and avoid overly wet conditions to prevent rot.
Cyclamen bring delicate, nodding petals and marbled leaves to life when everything else feels still. These beauties do best in cooler temperatures and can be grown indoors or outside in sheltered areas. Let the soil dry between watering and remove any yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy.
Snowdrops, planted as bulbs now, will reward you with the first signs of spring joy as early as January. They do best in well-drained soil and lightly shaded areas. Once established, they’ll return each year with minimal effort, a timeless symbol of hope and new beginnings.
When planting any of these blooms, always add a little compost or organic matter to help roots settle, and try not to overwater — especially in wetter months. For pots and containers, ensure good drainage by layering gravel or broken terracotta pieces at the base.