Outdoor Plants That Make the Perfect Valentine’s Gift

Blooming Lovely: Outdoor Plants That Make the Perfect Valentine’s Gift

Looking for a blooming lovely Valentine’s gift?

Forget the wilting flowers—why not give a gift that grows? A plant is a thoughtful, long-lasting token of love that will remind your Valentine of you year after year. Here are some charming outdoor plants you can gift this Valentine’s Day, along with tips to help them thrive and advice on when to plant them:

Camellias

These beauties are the divas of the garden—gorgeous, bold, and always stealing the spotlight! Perfect for adding a pop of colour to any outdoor space.

from £12.99

Care tips for Camellias:

Light: Partial shade is ideal; they don’t like direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter is a must.
Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to encourage healthy growth and more blooms next season.
When to plant: Camellias are best planted in autumn or early spring when the soil is warm but not frozen.

Hellebores

Also known as the “Christmas Rose”, but they’re not just for Christmas! These elegant plants bloom in late winter and early spring, brightening up shady corners of the garden.

Care tips for Hellebores:

Light: They prefer partial to full shade, making them perfect for those tricky, darker garden spots.
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter is ideal.
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves in late winter to make way for new growth.
When to plant: Plant hellebores in autumn or early spring for the best results.

from £6.99

Ornamental cherry trees (cherry blossom)

If you want to say, “I love you tree-mendously,” an ornamental cherry tree is a beautiful and lasting gift. These stunners burst into romantic blossoms in spring and grow more beautiful each year.

Care tips for ornamental cherry trees:

Light: Full sun is ideal to ensure the best blooms.
Soil: They thrive in fertile, well-drained soil.
Watering: Water deeply during dry periods in the first few years while the tree establishes.
Pruning: Prune in summer if necessary to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased branches.
When to plant: Plant ornamental cherry trees in autumn or early spring while the ground is soft and workable.

£34.99

Japanese Quince (Chaenomeles or Chaenomeles Japonica)

This plant adds fiery red blooms to brighten up the winter months—a perfect gift when the weather’s grey, but love is in full bloom.

Care tips for ornamental Japanese Quince:

Light: Full sun or partial shade works well for this hardy shrub.
Soil: Adaptable to most soils but prefers well-drained conditions.
Watering: Water regularly during the first year to help it establish; it’s drought-tolerant once mature.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to encourage healthy growth and remove crossing or overcrowded branches.
When to plant: Plant in autumn or early spring for the best results.

£9.99

Magnolia

For those who love a dramatic entrance, magnolias deliver with big, beautiful blooms and a delightful fragrance. They’re the ultimate garden showstoppers.

Care tips for magnolia:

Light: Full sun to partial shade is ideal.
Soil: They prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
Watering: Water deeply during dry spells, especially when young.
Pruning: Prune sparingly in summer after flowering to maintain shape and remove damaged branches.
When to plant: Plant magnolias in autumn or early spring to give them time to establish before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.