When the birds are chirping, the temperatures are rising and the first warm rays of sun are shining through the clouds, spring is bound to come. What makes the happy season better welcome than with a colorful blooms on the balcony and terrace? Early flowering plants such as primroses, pansies and tailgates open the outdoor season and provide the necessary portion of “Happy Life” at the end of cold winter days.
With the new season, the balcony and terrace also awake from hibernation. The blossoming trio of primroses, pansies and little darlings make their spring debut in March at the latest. With just a few simple steps, the driven, cold-resistant plants are potted and have their grand entrance. The shimmering flowers of primroses and pansies can be found in intense shades such as yellow, orange, red, pink or purple, while the little darling with its delicate rose-colored or white flowers is the basis for a wide variety of possible combinations.
A popular classic among the spring plants is the pansy, which inspires with its bright flowers over several weeks away. Thanks to countless varieties, the garden blooms are very versatile, but it remains unmistakable with its black flower center. The pansy likes to welcome other spring flowers in its pot, a welcome partner with similar care requirements is the Maßliebchen. The noble sister of the daisy loosens large-scale violet cultures playfully and inspires with their pompon-like flower heads.
From the beginning of March, the two sun lovers can move to a bright and sunny location, but they also manage with a partially shady place. Loose, fresh and well-drained soil make the plants happy perfectly, so that watering is only moderately necessary. Nutrient-rich soil requires no additional fertilization.
A successful addition to balcony corners without direct sunlight is the third in the bunch: the primrose, which, according to its Latin name, begins to bloom as the first of the year and sometimes even in February provides for outdoor spots. Their distinctively veined leaf rosettes grow densely out of the ground and form the platform for a colorful firework of full blossoms. Primroses thrive best in half or full shade, with the ambient temperature should not exceed 20 degrees Celsius. For a radiant appearance of the primrose, the soil should always be kept slightly moist – without over-pouring the plant. To ensure the best possible nutrient supply during the flowering period, primroses should be supplied with fertilizer every two weeks.
For all three spring messengers: Withered or faded parts of plants should be removed during flowering. This not only looks nicer, but also promotes a new flowering. By the way, nobody has to be afraid of frost: even if the flower beauties are fragile, they are extremely robust and withstand a few frosty nights. Only at permanent temperatures below zero should the garden flowers be quartered indoors.
