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June can be a wonderful month for gardening in Mediterranean climates, but it is not the right time to sow everything. Once the heat arrives, some plants struggle to germinate, bolt quickly, or become stressed before they have a chance to grow properly. This does not mean it is too late to plant. It simply means choosing seeds that can cope with long sunny days, warm soil and dry summer conditions. Good news: many flowers, herbs and vegetables can still be sown successfully in Mediterranean gardens in June — if you choose heat-loving varieties. Mediterranean gardening tip: In June, avoid treating your garden like a spring garden. Choose heat-loving plants, water carefully, and give young seedlings some protection from the strongest afternoon sun. Seeds That Thrive in Mediterranean Summer Heat Not sure what to plant instead? These flower seed mixes are designed for sunny balconies, warm patios and Mediterranean summer colour. Mediterranean Flowers Full Sun Summer Kit A flower seed collection for hot, sunny gardens and Mediterranean summer conditions. Shop Full Sun Flower Kit Chosen for Mediterranean summer growing conditions. Mediterranean Balcony Flowers Heatwave Colour Mix A colourful flower seed mix for sunny balconies, patios and containers in hot climates. Shop Hot Balcony Flower Mix Suitable for balconies, patios and sunny gardens. Avoid Most Lettuce in Full Sun Lettuce is one of the first crops to struggle when Mediterranean summer heat arrives. In full sun, many lettuce varieties bolt quickly, become bitter, or fail to grow well from seed. If you still want to grow lettuce in June, choose a cooler position with morning sun and afternoon shade. Containers can also help, because you can move them away from the hottest part of the day. Grow this instead For leafy crops in hot weather, try chard, basil, amaranth greens or other heat-tolerant herbs and greens. These are usually much better suited to warm summer conditions. Avoid Cool-Season Crops in Exposed Heat Some vegetables are naturally better suited to spring or autumn. Peas, broad beans, spinach and rocket often suffer once temperatures rise. They may germinate poorly, stop producing, or bolt before giving a useful harvest. In Mediterranean gardens, these crops are usually more reliable when sown in cooler months rather than during the peak of summer. Simple rule: If a crop prefers cool spring weather, June is usually too hot for it in Mediterranean regions unless you can provide shade and consistent watering. Don’t Start Tomatoes From Seed in June for a Summer Harvest Tomatoes love warmth, but starting them from seed in June is usually too late if your goal is a strong summer harvest. By the time seedlings are large enough to plant out, the hottest part of the season may already be stressing young plants. If you want tomatoes for this summer, it is usually better to buy established young plants. If you are sowing from seed, think of it as a later-season experiment rather than a guaranteed summer crop. Better June choices Instead of starting tomatoes from seed for summer, try basil, climbing beans, cucumbers, courgettes, chard or heat-loving flowers such as zinnias and cosmos. Easy Seeds for Beginners If you are planting in June for the first time, choose fast-growing, heat-loving seeds that are simple, rewarding and suitable for pots or small garden spaces. Nasturtiums Easy, cheerful flowers for sunny pots, borders and balconies. Shop nasturtiums Sunflowers Fast-growing, bold and ideal for warm sunny spaces. Shop sunflowers Basil A useful summer herb that loves warmth and sunshine. Shop herbs Avoid Delicate Cool-Weather Flowers Not all flowers enjoy Mediterranean summer heat. Pansies, violas and sweet peas are beautiful, but they usually prefer cooler weather and can struggle badly when sown in June. For summer colour, choose flowers that enjoy sun, warmth and fast growth. These are much more likely to give you strong plants and cheerful blooms during the hot season. Instead of pansies Try zinnias for bright, heat-loving summer flowers. Instead of sweet peas Try nasturtiums for easy flowers that suit pots and sunny spaces. For sunny borders Try cosmos, which brings soft colour and movement to summer gardens. For fast summer impact Try sunflowers in a sunny, sheltered spot. What You Can Still Plant in June June is not too late for growing from seed. The key is to choose plants that naturally enjoy warm soil and summer light. For vegetables Try climbing beans, courgettes, cucumbers, chard and basil. For flowers Try zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, nasturtiums and portulaca. For balconies Choose compact flowers, herbs and climbing plants that can grow well in pots. For later sowing Save cool-season crops like spinach, peas and many salad leaves for autumn or early spring. June planting window: Many heat-loving flowers and vegetables can still be sown now for summer growth, but the best results usually come from sowing sooner rather than later. Ready to plant something that actually enjoys summer heat? Browse seeds chosen for warm weather, sunny gardens, balconies and Mediterranean growing conditions. Shop Seeds for Hot Climates Mediterranean summer gardening is not about planting everything at once. It is about choosing the right seeds for the season. Avoid crops that prefer cool weather, protect young seedlings from extreme heat, and focus on plants that naturally thrive in sunshine. With the right choices, June can still be a productive and colourful month in the garden.

You don't need a large garden to enjoy a colourful summer full of flowers and pollinators. Even a small balcony, patio or sunny terrace can be transformed into a vibrant mini flower meadow using containers, window boxes and easy-to-grow flower seeds. Balcony growing tip: Choose the sunniest spot you have. Most flowering annuals grow best with 5–6 hours of sunlight per day. Start with the Right Containers Window boxes, railing planters, terracotta pots and trough containers all work well for balcony flowers. The most important thing is drainage. Always choose containers with holes at the bottom so excess water can escape. Larger containers hold moisture better and give roots more space, which is especially useful during hot, dry summer weather. Choose Flowers That Love Small Spaces The best balcony flowers are compact, long-flowering and happy in containers. For a meadow-style look, combine different heights, colours and flower shapes. Good choices include cosmos, zinnias, California poppies, nigella, iberis, nasturtiums, scabiosa, salvia, linum and verbena. Easy starting point Our Flowering Balcony Collection is selected for pots, patios, window boxes and small sunny spaces. Shop the Flowering Balcony Collection How to Create a Mini Meadow Effect Sow flowers in small groups rather than strict rows. Let trailing plants spill over the edge of containers and place taller flowers towards the back. This creates a softer, more natural look. Keep the soil lightly moist while seeds germinate, then water regularly once plants begin to grow. During hot weather, balcony containers may need watering every day. Care tip: Remove faded flowers often. This encourages many annuals to keep producing new blooms for longer. Not sure where to start? For pollinators Try calendula, cornflowers, nigella, poppies, scabiosa and verbena. For hot, sunny balconies Try California poppies, zinnias, nasturtiums, and cosmos. For colour all summer Choose zinnias, cosmos, salvia, scabiosa and linum. For window boxes Try iberis, nasturtiums, California poppies. A balcony meadow does not need to be perfect or formal. The beauty is in the mix: flowers at different heights, soft movement in the breeze, and a small space filled with colour, bees and summer life.

A climate-by-climate guide for flowers that actually suit your garden. May is the month when the garden starts asking for decisions. In the south of Europe, the sun is already strong and the soil is warming fast. In the north, spring may still feel new and slightly uncertain. Along the Atlantic coast, rain and mild days can make everything grow at once. Inland, gardeners often move from chilly nights to sudden summer heat in the space of a few weeks. Instead of asking, “What can I sow in May?”, ask:What should I sow in my kind of May? If your May is already hot and bright Mediterranean gardens: Southern Spain, Portugal, Southern Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Malta. In Mediterranean gardens, May is not a gentle spring month. It is the gateway to summer. The best seeds now are those that enjoy warmth, cope with strong light and do not collapse the moment the weather turns dry. Cosmos are one of the easiest wins. They grow quickly, flower generously and bring a loose, romantic feeling to borders and cutting patches. Try Cosmos Seashells Red for something striking, or Cosmos Double Dutch White for a softer, cleaner look. Zinnias are another excellent choice where summers are hot. Zinnia Elegans Dahlia Meteor gives rich colour, while Zinnia Elegans Dahlia Isabellina offers a more muted, elegant tone. For height, drama and pollinators, sow sunflowers. Choose Sunflower Ruby, Sunflower Claret, Sunflower Buttercream or Sunflower Sunspot. For something relaxed, edible and slightly wild, add nasturtiums. Good choices include Sahin’s Rumba, Sahin’s Paso Doble and Tiptop Rose. May sowing tip: Water the soil before sowing, then keep it just moist until germination. Once seedlings are growing strongly, water deeply rather than constantly. If your May is mild, damp and changeable Atlantic and temperate gardens: UK, Ireland, Northern France, Belgium, Netherlands and coastal Northern Germany. In these gardens, May often feels like the month when everything suddenly becomes possible. The soil is warming, the days are long, and outdoor sowing becomes much more reliable. Start with calendula. It is cheerful, forgiving and useful for pollinators. Calendula Ivory Princess gives a soft vintage look, while Calendula Funky Stuff and Calendula Bulls Eye bring warmer, more unusual tones. For a meadow or cottage-garden feel, sow cornflowers and nigella. Cornflower Blue Boy is the classic clear blue, while Cornflower Black Ball adds depth and contrast. Nigella Sativa is delicate in flower and beautiful again later when the seed pods form. If you want easy colour with minimal fuss, add California poppies. Try Eschscholzia Thai Silk Rose Chiffon, Jelly Beans or Thai Silk Formula Mix. May sowing tip: Thin seedlings early. It feels ruthless, but crowded seedlings become weak plants. Watch for slugs after rain. If your May cannot make up its mind Continental gardens: Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Romania and inland Balkan regions. Continental gardens can be dramatic in May. One week still feels like spring; the next feels like summer has arrived without warning. The best approach is to sow for warmth, but keep a little caution in reserve. Marigolds are dependable, bright and useful in mixed planting. Tagetes Burning Embers is a strong choice if you want colour with more depth than standard bedding marigolds. Dahlias from seed are also worth starting in May. Dahlia Figaro Formula Mix is a good all-round choice, while Figaro White, Figaro Orange and Dandy Improved Mix allow for more specific colour palettes. For evening scent and a softer mood, try Nicotiana Perfume White or Nicotiana Perfume Rose. Once nights are reliably mild, sow cosmos and zinnias. Cosmos Fizzy Rose Picotee and Zinnia Elegans Dahlia Meteor are good choices for gardens that move quickly into summer heat. May sowing tip: If late frost is still possible, start tender flowers under cover and move them outside gradually. If your May is still cool Northern, Baltic and Alpine gardens: Scandinavia, Baltic states, mountain regions and higher-altitude gardens. In cooler regions, May is precious. The season is shorter, the soil warms later, and every sowing needs to earn its place. Begin with poppies. They are well suited to direct sowing and do not like root disturbance. Choose Poppy Lauren’s Grape, Poppy Purple Peony, Poppy Bread Seed or Poppy Dawn Chorus. Calendula, cornflowers and nigella are also reliable choices in cooler gardens. They are quick, useful and do not require a long hot season to be worthwhile. May is also a good time to think beyond this summer. Hollyhocks and agastache can be started now to build strong plants. Try Hollyhock Chater’s Double Mix, Hollyhock Jet Black, Agastache Golden Jubilee or Agastache Rose Mint. May sowing tip: Use fleece or cloches if cold nights return. In short seasons, starting slower plants under cover can give them the extra push they need. Not sure where to start? For a romantic cutting patch Cosmos, zinnias, dahlias and nicotiana. For pollinators Calendula, cornflowers, agastache, poppies and sunflowers. For hot, dry gardens Cosmos, zinnias, nasturtiums, sunflowers and California poppies. For cooler regions Calendula, cornflowers, nigella, poppies and hollyhocks.

Most seed guides are written for cooler, wetter climates. But Mediterranean gardens—from Cyprus and Greece to Malta, Spain and southern Italy and Portugal—play by different rules. The good news? Some flowers don’t just tolerate these conditions—they thrive in them. This guide covers the easiest, most reliable flowers to grow in hot, dry Mediterranean gardens, whether you’re planting in the ground or on a sunny balcony.

Even though winter isn’t over, February is the perfect month to get a head start on your spring garden! By starting seeds indoors now, you’ll give your plants a strong foundation for a vibrant, productive growing season. From colorful flowers to fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, here’s what you can sow this month!

As autumn settles in, it’s easy to think that the sowing season is over — but October still offers plenty of opportunities for the European gardener. Whether you’re in the north with cool, misty mornings or in the south enjoying mild Mediterranean days, this month is all about preparing for early spring growth. Planting now allows many seeds to establish strong roots before winter. When days lengthen again, they’ll take off quickly, giving you earlier blooms and harvests next season. Flowers to Sow in October Autumn sowing isn’t just for vegetables — it’s a secret advantage for flower lovers too. Hardy annuals and perennials sown now often produce stronger plants that flower earlier and longer next spring. Calendula (Pot Marigold)A must-have for autumn sowing. Calendula tolerates cool weather, germinates easily, and adds cheerful colour even in the colder months. It’s also a pollinator magnet and works beautifully in borders or pots. Nigella (Love-in-a-Mist)Nigella loves a cool start. Sown in October, it overwinters quietly and bursts into bloom with delicate blue and white flowers by late spring. Perfect for natural-style gardens and cutting. Agastache (Hyssop)In southern or mild climates, Agastache can be sown now for early establishment. The aromatic leaves and tall flower spikes make it a favourite with bees and butterflies. Cornflower, Larkspur, and PoppyThese classic cottage garden favourites all benefit from autumn sowing. They germinate in cool soil and produce sturdy seedlings that survive winter and bloom early. Vegetables and Herbs for October Sowing October is the month for cool-season greens and root crops that prefer mild temperatures. Depending on your region, these can be sown outdoors in southern Europe or under cover further north. SpinachA true autumn champion. Spinach thrives in cool weather and provides fast, tender leaves throughout winter in mild areas — or early spring harvests in colder regions. Lettuce and Winter Salad MixesChoose hardy varieties for planting now. They germinate well in cool soil and can be grown in tunnels, frames, or even window boxes for a steady supply of greens. Carrots and BeetrootIn milder zones, you can sow short-season carrots and baby beets now. They’ll establish slowly through winter and reward you with early spring harvests. Parsley and CorianderThese herbs germinate better in cool soil and can withstand light frost. Sow directly into the garden or in pots for fresh leaves all winter. Broad Beans (Fava Beans)In southern and central Europe, broad beans are a classic autumn crop. They establish strong roots before frost and grow rapidly once spring arrives. Garlic and Onion SetsWhile not grown from seed, October is still the ideal time to plant these kitchen staples. They’ll root through winter and bulb up beautifully in spring. Regional Tips Northern EuropeStart seeds under cover or in trays, then move seedlings to cold frames or unheated greenhouses. Protection from frost will make all the difference. Central EuropeDirect sow hardy greens and flowers if the weather is mild. Otherwise, use tunnels or low covers for extra warmth and wind protection. Southern Europe / MediterraneanOctober is prime time for direct sowing. The soil is still warm, and seedlings will grow steadily through winter with little risk of frost damage. Your October Garden Checklist Clear summer crops and add compost to beds. Sow hardy flowers and greens directly into prepared soil. Protect young seedlings from slugs and heavy rain. Use fleece or tunnels to extend the growing season. Keep watering lightly — autumn rains usually help. Take notes for next season: what grew well, what didn’t. October sowing is one of gardening’s best-kept secrets. It bridges the seasons, keeps the soil active, and brings a sense of quiet progress to your garden. Whether you’re growing cheerful Calendula, aromatic Agastache, or fresh winter Spinach, a few hours spent planting now will reward you with stronger, earlier crops next year.

If you've ever dreamed of turning a dull patch of dirt into a colorful, pollinator-loving paradise, you might’ve wondered—can I really just throw wildflower seeds on the ground and let nature do the rest?

If you've been gardening for a while, you may have come across two beautiful, spiky flowers often referred to interchangeably: Delphinium and Larkspur. While they both share similar characteristics, such as their tall flower spikes and vibrant colors, there are notable visible differences between the two. However, the confusion doesn’t end with their appearance; the names themselves are part of the reason why people often mix them up. So, let’s take a look at the differences between these two flowers, why they share similar names, and what leads to the ongoing confusion. Why the Names?Both Delphinium and Larkspur have earned their names from similar features. The term "Larkspur" traditionally refers to species from the Consolida genus, such as Consolida ajacis, which is an annual. The name "Larkspur" comes from the flower’s resemblance to a bird's spur, or the hind claw of a lark. "Delphinium" (the botanical name) is derived from the Greek word "delphinion," meaning "dolphin", which references the shape of the flower’s spurred petals resembling the curved shape of a dolphin’s nose. Despite this, the common name "Larkspur" is often used for both flowers, leading to the confusion. This overlap in terminology likely arose because both plants produce spiky, upright flower stalks, often in shades of blue, purple, and white. Their visual similarities have caused gardeners and flower enthusiasts to mistakenly use the same name for both, even though they belong to different genera. Delphiniums are typically more robust perennials, while Larkspurs are often annuals. Botanical DifferencesThe main botanical difference between Delphinium and Larkspur lies in their genus. Delphiniums belong to the Delphinium genus, while Larkspurs are part of the Consolida genus. Delphiniums are typically perennials, meaning they return year after year, growing larger and more established over time. Larkspurs, on the other hand, are annuals in most cases, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season. The confusion is understandable because many gardeners may only know the flowers by their common name, Larkspur, and not realize that some Larkspur varieties are short-lived annuals while Delphiniums are long-lasting perennials. Growth Habits and AppearanceDelphiniums are typically taller and more robust than Larkspurs. They can reach 120 to 180 cm in height, making them excellent for the back of flower beds or as a backdrop plant. Delphinium flowers tend to be larger and more dense, with double flowers that have multiple layers of petals. They come in a wide range of colors, including rich blues, purples, pinks, and whites. Larkspurs, in contrast, are generally shorter, growing to about 30 to 120 cm in height. Their flower spikes are typically looser and more delicate, often with single flowers rather than the fuller blooms of Delphiniums. Larkspur flowers are commonly blue but can also be found in shades of pink, purple, and white. Larkspurs are also annuals, meaning they need to be replanted every year, while Delphiniums are perennial and will return to your garden year after year with proper care. Why the Confusion?The main reason for the confusion between Delphiniums and Larkspurs is that they belong to two different genera but have similar characteristics, including their flower shape, color, and flowering habit. Both plants produce spiky, column-like flower stalks, often in hues of blue, purple, and white, and both are favored by gardeners for their ornamental value. Moreover, since Larkspurs are often referred to by this common name in the garden, Delphiniums, which also fit this description, are mistakenly called Larkspur as well. Additionally, some species within the Delphinium genus are also commonly referred to as Larkspur, especially in casual gardening settings, further blurring the lines. For example, Delphinium ajacis, a variety that blooms in shades of blue and purple, is sometimes called "annual Larkspur," which only adds to the problem. Growing ConditionsBoth Delphiniums and Larkspurs prefer full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil, but they differ in their lifespan and care needs. Delphiniums require more maintenance, especially in areas with hot summers, as they may need support to prevent their tall stems from bending or breaking. They also need to be divided every few years to maintain healthy growth. Larkspurs, on the other hand, are more low-maintenance and can tolerate slightly drier conditions, making them an easier option for gardeners who want annual flowers without the long-term commitment of perennials. Larkspur is often sown in the spring and completes its lifecycle in one growing season, while Delphiniums can live for several years with proper care.In the summary, while Delphiniums and Larkspurs share many visual similarities, their differences in genus, growth habits, and lifespan set them apart. The confusion between the two comes from their similar flower shape, common name overlap, and shared ornamental appeal in gardens. Understanding the botanical differences between Delphinium (perennial) and Larkspur (annual) can help gardeners choose the right plant for their garden needs, whether they are looking for long-lasting beauty or seasonal splendor. Regardless of the confusion, both flowers are stunning choices that will add height, color, and elegance to the garden space. And after all that, please make sure to take a look at our favorite blue shade of Delphinium: Delphinium Blue Cloud

Black Salsify 'VRN-Enorma', also known as schorzonera, is a unique and versatile root vegetable that's a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. This new variety, developed with a focus on yield and flavor, offers a delicious and nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire.