Plants for Patio Pots

Question

Can you tell me if there are any plants or bulbs that can be planted in pots outside on the patio now (in January) that will survive okay? My father, who passed away recently, was a keen gardener. I wanted to plant something in pots on his patio, as it’s his birthday soon (Jan. 22). Can you help?

Answer 1

I am very sorry to hear about your father. What comes to mind is either snowdrops or Lenten rose. Snowdrops are bulbs that are considered to be the very earliest bloomers there are. They will not bloom for this date though, but will be blooming by late February or early March. That being said, any hardy spring bulb can be planted at this time as long as the soil is not frozen and they will bloom later. Lenten rose is considered to be the earliest of the bloomers as well. It is not a bulb, but can take quite cold conditions and will also bloom in late February or early March. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/snowdrop/information-about-snowdrops-and-when-to-plant-snowdrop-flower-bulbs.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hellebore/lenten-rose-flower.htm