As November arrives, many gardens fall silent under the chill of winter. However, Irish gardening expert Niall McCauley highlights that this month offers a unique opportunity to plant certain flower species that can thrive in the cold and bloom by spring.
On his popular YouTube channel, McCauley presents nine flowers suitable for November planting. He assures viewers that following his advice can result in a vibrant garden when winter ends, despite the challenges posed by the colder weather.
One of McCauley’s top seed suggestions is Fox and Cubs (Pilosella), a hardy perennial with bright red flowers known as the foxes and accompanying buds called the cubs. This plant can be sown at any time of the year.
Another recommended flower is Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing’, which features stunning white blooms that resemble clusters of stars. McCauley stresses the importance of sowing these seeds fresh, as we near the end of the optimal planting season. He advises starting them outdoors under cover for a chance to see them flourish come flowering season.
Next on McCauley’s list is Pelargonium, commonly known as geraniums. These plants come in various colors, including vibrant reds, whites, and deep pinks. They also boast fragrant leaves, with some varieties emitting rose or lemon scents. Germinating Pelargonium seeds is simple; just scatter them on compost and provide some warmth to encourage growth. For indoor planting, a conservatory or well-lit area is ideal.
Ground cover plant Ajuga is also a favorite of McCauley’s. Known for its striking blue and purple flowers, Ajuga can spread quickly without becoming invasive, making it perfect for bordering features like rock gardens. McCauley describes it as a “must-have” for any garden, as it flourishes even in shaded areas.
Fellow gardening enthusiast Liz Zorab, who collaborates with McCauley on YouTube, recommends planting Sweet Peas if one could choose only one bloom for November. She suggests sowing two to three seeds in each pot, ideally in a greenhouse, and watering them from beneath. Zorab emphasizes the importance of keeping the seeds undisturbed, ideally by elevating them above ground to protect them from mice, which often target sweet pea seeds.
When watering, she advises against over-saturating the soil while ensuring it does not dry out completely.
In addition to these flowers, McCauley highlights bulbs that can be planted in November to welcome spring blooms. Tulips are essential, despite their brief flowering period. The Copper Image tulip showcases a captivating peach-orange hue, while the Black Parrot variety, with its deep wine-red color, offers a striking contrast. For a delicate touch, McCauley recommends the smaller Doll’s Minuet tulip, which delivers impressive visual appeal.
Daffodils are another favorite, with their cheerful yellow blooms best planted in November. The Winston Churchill variety, reaching up to 40 centimeters, features white petals with a vibrant yellow to orange center, perfect for pots and garden beds alike.
Lastly, McCauley mentions Dutch Irises, which may take longer to bloom but are well worth the wait. Their enchanting fragrance adds something special to the garden.
With these suggestions, Niall McCauley offers practical tips for gardening enthusiasts looking to brighten their gardens this November.
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