Quietly Growing: What’s Stirring in the Greenhouse and Garden

This is the time of year when much of the work happens quietly. On the surface, the garden can still look a little bare and restrained — but if you know where to look, there’s a lot going on.

In the greenhouse, trays are filling up and seedlings are stretching towards the light. Outside, hardy annuals and perennials are starting to make themselves known again, and the first real signs of the season ahead are popping up through the soil.

Right now, I’m watching ranunculus and anemones build strength, their fresh green growth promising the soft, elegant blooms that signal the start of the cut-flower season. Cornflowers, calendula, nigella and larkspur are quietly establishing themselves, ready to bring movement and height later on, while orlaya is on its way — a firm favourite for its delicate, lace-like flowers that work beautifully in natural arrangements.

Sweet peas are beginning their journey too, full of scent and nostalgia, while sweet williams are settling in, dependable and generous as ever. There’s structure coming from echinops and alliums, and longer-term colour building from achillea, which will come into its own as summer unfolds.

Out in the beds, narcissi are already doing their thing — a reminder that the season is turning, whether the weather agrees or not.

This stage is full of anticipation. It’s the planning, nurturing and trusting part of growing — knowing that with a bit of patience, these green shoots will soon turn into armfuls of flowers. I can’t wait to start sharing photos as everything comes into bloom, from the first cuts through to the real abundance of high summer.

If you’re a florist, or you know one who loves working with British, locally grown flowers, I’d love to hear from you. I grow with florists in mind — seasonal varieties, excellent vase life, and stems that bring something a little different to the table.

The season is coming. Slowly, surely — and beautifully.