Seasonal Flower Shopping: Flowers for Every Month of the Year

More and more people are switching on to the benefits of buying seasonally. Both for food and cut flowers. Seasonal produce is not only better for the environment, but it is usually fresher because it can come from a British supplier. As such, it lasts longer. The problem is that the UK weather is so variable that it’s not always easy to know what’s growing when. Especially when it comes to cut flowers. So, which blooms should you be looking for in your florist as the year progresses?

Flowers for Every Season

January - Narcissus and early daffodils

Although daffodils are widely associated with March, most gardeners know that one of the first good cut flowers of the year is the narcissus. Early-flowering varieties, such as Paperwhites, are loved for their beautiful, sweet fragrance. They’re largely grown under cover, which is why you’ll find them flowering earlier than other varieties, but they’re a great choice for brightening gloomy January days.

February - Iris

We’re not talking about the tall, blousy iris here, but rather their tiny counterparts. They’re so small that you don’t often find them in cut flower arrangements, but many florists sell small bowls of spring bulbs, and irises are always the star. With their striking blue, purple, yellow, or white petals, they’re hard not to love.

March -Tulips

Everyone loves tulips. They’re instantly recognisable, and yet available in such a wide array of shapes, colours, and sizes, that they can’t help being one of the highlights of the floral year. And flowering from March to May, they’re always the perfect choice for Mother's Day.

April - Ranunculus

Most florists use ranunculus throughout the year, simply because they look so lovely. But April is the month they really shine. Their delicate, layered petals resemble miniature roses.  And they come in so many different shades that you can find a ranunculus for every occasion.

May - Peonies

Peony season is always something to look forward to. Whether single or double, those large, ruffled blooms and delicate fragrance make the peony one of the most luxurious flowers available. And as their season is so short, you really have to treasure them while you can get them.

June - Alliums

With their distinctive globe-shaped flower heads, alliums are structural, interesting, and beautiful. They also last well when cut and dry beautifully, so they can be a really valuable addition to any flower arrangement.  

July - Roses

British-grown roses are available throughout the year, but there’s no denying that they are at their peak during the summer months. Their beautiful scent and wide range of colours make them an endless favourite. Whether you’re buying for yourself or someone else.

August - Sunflowers

Sunflowers are another bloom with a limited period, but oh how they shine when they’re here! Their large golden blooms bring warmth, happiness and plenty of personality to bouquets, making them a favourite during August. Nothing captures the feeling of summer quite like sunflowers.

September - Dahlias

Dahlias can start flowering much earlier in the summer, but autumn is when they put on their best display. Available in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes and colours, there is a dahlia out there for everyone.

October - Chrysanthemums

Where would florists be without the chrysanthemum? They are the ultimate filler, not just because they come in so many shapes, sizes, and colours, but because they can last a really long time once cut. The official line is two weeks, but if you care for them properly, they can often last longer. And they’re especially valuable in October, where many other flowers are beginning to fade.  

Hypericum berries

While technically not a flower, hypericum berries make a beautiful addition to any autumnal flower arrangement, thanks to their bright red, pink, or cream colouring. While they won’t be the star of any arrangements, they do bring a little seasonal flair and structure.

December - Amaryllis

Amaryllis are always grown under cover, but they’ve become one of the stars of the festive season. The massive trumpet-shaped flowers can’t help but make a statement on their own, but they also look wonderful when mixed with holly, pinecones, and fir for Christmas arrangements. That said, if you do want more of a natural approach, all of those elements can be combined to look beautiful without the hot-house princess in the middle!

The wonderful thing about both gardening and floristry is that every month brings something new. So, while you don’t have to shop seasonally to enjoy cut flowers year-round, it is sometimes nice to actually enjoy what the season has to offer. And it’s a good way to help reduce your impact on the planet.

If you're ever unsure what to choose, Blue Florist can help you select a beautiful bouquet that's perfectly suited to the time of year and your occasion. Get in touch.