Spring Garden Planting Guide: What to Plant in March-May

Discover the best plants to add spring colour to your garden. From early bulbs to late-spring perennials, here's everything you need to know about planting this season.

Spring is the most exciting time in the garden. As temperatures rise and daylight hours increase, it's time to get planting and set the foundation for a beautiful year ahead.

Early Spring (March)

March is the time to get your garden ready for the season. Start by clearing away any winter debris, cutting back old perennial growth, and preparing beds with fresh compost.

What to plant in March:

Hardy annuals like sweet peas and cornflowers can be sown directly outside
Plant bare-root roses, shrubs, and hedging while they're still dormant
Early potatoes can go in if the soil isn't frozen
Divide established perennials like hostas and grasses

Mid Spring (April)

April brings warmer soil temperatures and longer days. This is prime planting time for many garden favourites.

What to plant in April:

Herbaceous perennials such as geraniums, salvias, and echinacea
Summer-flowering bulbs including dahlias, gladioli, and lilies
Evergreen shrubs and climbers
Hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage

Late Spring (May)

After the last frost (typically mid-May in Milton Keynes), you can plant tender specimens.

What to plant in May:

Bedding plants and tender perennials
Tomatoes, courgettes, and other tender vegetables
Tropical-looking plants like cannas and bananas
Hanging basket and container displays

Top Tips for Spring Planting

1. Prepare your soil - Add organic matter like garden compost or well-rotted manure

2. Water well - New plants need consistent moisture to establish

3. Mulch after planting - A 5cm layer of mulch retains moisture and suppresses weeds

4. Don't rush - Wait until the risk of frost has passed for tender plants

Need help with your spring planting? Our planting design service creates beautiful borders tailored to your garden's conditions. Contact us for a consultation.

James Mitchell

Garden Designer & Horticultural Specialist at Greenscape MK