The 35 Best Spring Flowers for a Sensational Seasonal Garden

Tulips are a classic spring flower, but they don’t grow instantly. According to the Home Depot, it’s ideal to plant them in the fall so they’re ready for spring. If you missed that boat, don’t stress because stores offer potted tulips that can easily be replanted wherever you want. Nab a few and spruce up your front step.

Given how unpredictable spring weather can be, it’s practical to have flowers that stay fresh no matter the conditions. This is what you’ll get with snowdrops because even if there’s transitional spring snow on the ground, they’ll peep through.

Like snowdrops, irises also begin to bloom during early spring. If you’re one of those impatient plant parents who can’t wait months for flowers, these beauties were made for you. Irises are typically planted during the late summer months, but you can also plant rhizomes (the iris’s horizontal, rootlike structure) in early spring.

Dahlias begin to pop up around mid-summer, and bloom well into fall. But if you want to enjoy these multi-colored flowers, it’s recommended that you begin planting just after the last frost, when your soil begins to warm up.

Calla lilies are one of the most dramatic blooms you can have in your garden. They need a lot of sun to properly thrive, but you’re best off planting them in the late spring to watch them unfurl as we get closer to warmer months.

Peonies are one of the most sought-after blooms, but despite the complexity of their petals, they’re actually surprisingly sturdy. It’s recommended that you plant the bulbs in the fall, so that by the time spring rolls around, your yard will be full of these flowers until colder weather comes back around.

Orchids come in so many colors and varieties, and one of the benefits is that there are several species that thrive in cooler conditions. Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums, and Cattleyas are all varieties that can be planted in the winter–especially if you’re growing them indoors—and thrive throughout the year.

When placed in full sun, ranunculus corms (the claw-like underground stem) can bloom in a variety of conditions. They can be planted in fall or early winter, before the hard frost sets in, and bloom throughout spring and summer, provided they have ample sunlight.

Next up on the list are sweet-smelling lilacs. They’ll need plenty of direct sunlight to bloom, so keep that in mind when finding a spot for them in your yard.

It’s no secret that cherry blossoms are some of the most spectacular and well-known spring flowers. While they seem delicate and high-maintenance, you can actually grow them yourself. You simply need lots of sunlight and well-drained soil.

May is usually when these lilies bloom. The bell-shaped perennials have an unforgettable scent, but make sure you don’t scorch them in the sun, as they prefer being in a well-shaded spot.

Nothing beats the eye-catching yellow hue of daffodils. More is more when it comes to these radiant perennials, so don’t be afraid to plant a whole bunch altogether. These bulbs are best planted in the fall, but you can certainly buy bunches in planters this spring to add a splash of sunshine to your patio.

Begonias are shade-loving plants and, depending on where you live, are generally planted as annuals. Once you get them to bloom in the spring, they’ll keep growing and growing, making them perfect for anyone who loves flower arranging.

Blooming geraniums are a surefire sign of spring. Better still? They’re low maintenance. If you’re a beginner, stick with these showy perennials.

Not only will snapdragons take your bouquets to the next level, but spring is when these annuals shine (the blooms take a break from flowering as soon as summer hits). Pro tip: Plant them closer together so you end up with longer, flowering stems.

Despite needing at least six hours of sunlight a day, these annuals actually love the cold. They’ll even start blooming in the snow. Available in a range of bright hues, from purple and white to a deep crimson, these flowers will suit any color palette.

Another early bloomer, crocuses, with their bright purple petals, are best planted in individual pots because of their appeal to garden pests.

Best in small pots where you can control their moisture levels (hyacinths prefer well-drained but well-watered soil), these spring blooms provide vibrant and early color.

Another species that thrives in spring’s early, colder months is the hardy primrose. Because there are countless varieties, ask your local flower shop or hardware store which type is best suited to your geographic area.

Known for their striking orange hue, marigolds are also natural mosquito repellers. Plant in full sun with fertilized soil for the best results.