Plants to buy April 2026

April is where your garden really comes to life. As the days get longer and temperatures begin to rise, it’s the perfect time to plant up containers, baskets, and borders ready for a summer full of colour.

Shop now and get ahead of the season with plants that will thrive as the weather warms.

What plants should you buy and plant in April?

April is one of the most exciting months in the gardening calendar. Soil temperatures begin to rise and growth speeds up, making it a key time to plant a wide range of flowers, herbs, and bedding plants.

However, while conditions are improving, it’s important to remember that late frosts are still possible, so tender plants may need protection or gradual hardening off before being planted outside.

Why April is the perfect time to plant

April sits right at the transition into the growing season. With warmer days and increasing light levels, plants establish quickly and grow strongly, giving you a head start on summer displays.

This is the ideal time to:

Plant up containers and hanging baskets
Refresh borders with bedding plants
Start growing herbs for the season ahead
Prepare for a continuous display of colour through summer
Best plants to buy in April

Geraniums (Pelargoniums)

One of the most popular summer bedding plants, geraniums are loved for their bold colours and long flowering season. They thrive in sunny spots and are perfect for pots, window boxes, and borders.

Fuchsias

A must-have for hanging baskets and shaded areas, fuchsias produce elegant, pendulous flowers from early summer onwards. Hardy varieties can be planted now, while tender types should be protected from frost.

Begonias

Begonias are ideal for adding reliable, long-lasting colour to containers and baskets. Tuberous begonias can be started in spring and will flower continuously through summer.

Hanging basket plants

April is the perfect time to start building your baskets. Trailing plants like bacopa and other basket favourites establish now and create full, overflowing displays by early summer.

Nemesia

Compact and highly fragrant, nemesia is perfect for patio pots and front-of-border planting. It flowers early and continues well into the season with regular deadheading.

Herbs

April is a great time to plant herbs like basil, thyme, and mint. With the right care, they’ll quickly establish and provide fresh harvests throughout spring and summer.

Top tips for planting in April
- Watch the frost – Keep fleece handy and protect tender plants
- Harden off plants – Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions
- Use good compost – Strong roots now mean better flowering later
- Feed regularly – Especially for containers and baskets
Water consistently – April can be unpredictable with rain and dry spells

Get your garden ready for summer

Planting in April is all about getting ahead. With the right plants now, you’ll enjoy stronger growth, earlier flowers, and a garden that looks full and vibrant right through the summer months.

Explore the full range of spring plants to buy now and start building your best garden yet.