Plan your planting: companion flowers & colour combinations

As the growing season approaches, now is the perfect time to plan your garden. Whether you're looking to create a fragrant retreat, a vibrant display, or a pollinator-friendly space, choosing the right flowers can make all the difference. Companion planting not only enhances beauty but also supports plant health and attracts beneficial insects.

1. Fragrant Flowers for a Scented Garden

If you love a garden filled with beautiful scents, these flowers will add a touch of fragrance:

• Lavender – A classic for borders and pathways, attracting bees.

• Roses (fragrant varieties) – Ideal for archways and mixed beds.

• Sweet Peas – Perfect for climbing trellises and fences.

• Jasmine – A nighttime fragrance booster, great near patios.

Best Placement: Near seating areas, entrances, and along pathways for maximum enjoyment.

2. Colour Combinations for Stunning Garden Displays

Different areas of your garden can benefit from specific colour schemes. Here are some ideas:

Sunny Borders & Open Beds

Bold and striking combinations:

• Red Crocosmia + Yellow Rudbeckia + Orange Marigolds

• Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ + Helenium + Salvia ‘Hot Lips’

Shady Areas & Woodland Gardens

Plants that thrive in partial shade:

• Ferns + Foxgloves + Hellebores

• White Astilbe + Purple Heuchera + Bluebells

Rocky Walls & Dry Areas

Hardy plants that thrive in tough conditions:

• Sedums + Thyme + Aubrieta (great for cascading over walls)

• Eryngium (Sea Holly) + Artemisia + Dianthus

Wildlife-Friendly (Bee & Butterfly Garden)

Flowers that encourage pollinators:

• Echinacea + Verbena Bonariensis + Borage

• Cosmos + Phacelia + Sunflowers

3. Companion Planting for Healthier Gardens

Pairing flowers strategically can improve plant health and deter pests:

• Roses + Lavender – Lavender deters aphids and adds fragrance.

• Tomatoes + Marigolds – Marigolds repel whiteflies and aphids.

• Beans + Nasturtiums – Nasturtiums attract aphids away from crops.

Final Tips for Planning:

• Consider Bloom Times – Choose flowers that bloom at different times for year-round interest.

• Group by Water & Sun Needs – Keep thirsty plants together and drought-tolerant ones separate.

• Create Layers – Use tall plants at the back, medium-height in the middle, and low-growing flowers at the front.

With thoughtful planning, your garden can be both visually stunning and beneficial for wildlife. Whether you’re growing for scent, colour, or function, the right flowers will bring your space to life.