Spring is a time of new growth and there is no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a variety of beautiful flowers. Here are a few flower ideas for indoors and outdoors.
Indoors
Orchids
Orchids will add a sense of simple elegance to any area. These classic flowers grow best by east and south-facing windows and should be watered once a week. But be cautious of overwatering; overwatered orchids can develop root rot. Try watering your orchid with the ice cube method — simply place one ice cube on the base of the soil once per week.
Anthurium
Anthurium, also known as the Flamingo lily or flower, will add a perfect pop of color to your space. This eye-catching flower can bloom year-round. These lively flowers originate in tropical climates and rainforests, so it is important to replicate this environment as much as possible when caring for your anthurium. This can be done by providing the plant with filtered light, placing it in a more humid location in your home (like the kitchen or bathroom), and providing it with the correct kind of soil (peat moss mixed with a little bark). Anthurium needs to be watered regularly so that it has evenly moist soil, but do not overwater or the plant could develop root rot. Only water when the soil feels dry.
Peace Lily
As the name suggests, this flower is sure to create a calm, peaceful environment in your home. While Peace Lilies can grow in just water and are often sold in vases without any soil, the plant will appreciate some soil base. These flowers need consistent watering, and do well in moist soil, but do not overwater it. Use filtered, room temperature water if at all possible when watering these plants, since they are sensitive to the chemicals found in tap water. Keep your Peace Lily near an east-facing window for optimal light.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe, along with other succulents, is the perfect houseplant for those who may not have as much time to care for the plant. Succulents are easier to care for because they simply do not need as much attention. Kalanchoe is unique because it is a flowering plant, and because of flowers, it does not look like your typical indoor succulent. The bright, colorful flowers on this plant will be sure to add a feeling of happiness to your home. Make sure to keep them where they will get a lot of sun – but do not keep them in a window with too much direct sunlight or they will burn. Water your Kalanchoe about once every two weeks or when the soil feels dry. Cactus soil mixed with potting soil will give the blooming plant the nutrients it needs to grow.
Outdoors
Salvia Farinacea
Similar in looks to the famous Texas bluebonnet, the Salvia Farinacea is a Texas native plant whose purple to blue flowers will catch any passerby’s eye. These flowers grow up to 3 feet tall and will attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden and repel deer. The flowers are very low maintenance — all they need is a flood of sunlight and less than an inch of water per week. Salvia plants are perennials and will come back every year for up to five years, which makes them a Texas favorite.
Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera daisies come in many colors and are sure to vivify your outdoor spring garden. These cheery flowers originate from South Africa and thrive in full sunlight. These bold daisies should be watered quite frequently and should not dry out between watering. You may have to water them every one to two days, depending on the amount of sunlight the plant is receiving and how fast the water is drying from your last watering. Peat-based soil is best for this flower.
Zinnias
Zinnias are among the easiest plants to grow when planted in the right conditions. Zinnias grow quickly and bloom in a wide range of bold and beautiful colors, shapes (button, beehive, and cactus), and heights. No matter what you are going for, there is most likely a zinnia that will fit what you are looking for in your garden. While zinnias are pretty drought tolerant (making them perfect for the spring and summer), zinnias should be watered a few times a week, but not too much, or they can develop a disease. Zinnias will also attract pollinators, like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to your garden.
Pansies
Pansies are one of the most colorful, vibrant flowers that grow beautifully in the spring and summer. In fact, pansies come in hundreds of mixtures of colors. These striking, multicolored flowers will not be the only ones with “smiling faces” — these flowers are sure to bring happiness to your garden. Pansies will grow best in full or partial sun, but grow best when planted where they receive the refreshing morning sun but are shielded from the sweltering afternoon sun. Pansies should be watered often and are actually edible! Try adding a petal to your salad or dessert for a mild, minty flavor and unique pop of color!
