Tulips growing between old wooden wagon wheel

SPRING IS HERE

7 plants that will fill your garden with color and energy this spring

'When flowers argue, they always turn into a blooming mess'

Senior Writer

MARCH 19, 2025 7:59 PM EDTMAR 19, 2025, 7:59 PM EDT

Spring officially arrives Thursday, March 20, and there's no better time to breathe new life into your garden with vibrant blooms and lush, beautiful foliage. Whether you want bold colors, fragrant blossoms, or low-maintenance options, we have seven plants that will add a perfect touch of energy and beauty to your outdoor space. Depending on your climate it's likely too late to grow them from seeds for this season, as they typically need to be started earlier in the year; but you can still buy established plants or seedlings and transplant them into your garden.

A picture shows a butterfly and tulips in the garden of the Pralormo Castle on April 7, 2015 in Pralormo, near Turin.

1. Tulips

A spring classic, tulips are perennial favorites that bring a burst of color in shades of red, yellow, pink, orange, and purple. They symbolize happiness, love, joy, and good luck, making them an amazing choice to bring good energy and good vibes for the season. Plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.

2. Lavender

Lavender's calming scent and purple blooms are known to symbolize purity, calmness, and devotion. This fragrant flower attracts pollinators while creating a serene atmosphere in your garden. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and enjoy its beauty and soothing aroma all season long. If you ever harvest it you can use it to cook with, make lavender oil, soaps, and more.

3. Marigolds

These bright orange and yellow flowers not only add festive cheer and Dia De Muertos vibes to your garden but also help keep pests at bay! Marigolds represent passion, joy, resilience, and positive energy, and they thrive in full sun while requiring minimal care. They're perfect for beginners and will attract pollinators while adding vibrant color to your garden.

4. Dahlias

Dahlias are Mexico's national flower; and bring drama and excitement to any garden. Their intricate petals and wide range of colors symbolize elegance and strength. They bloom from midsummer to fall, so planting them in early spring gives them a head start. Keep them in a sunny spot, and they’ll be the showstoppers of your garden.

5. Geraniums

Vivid pinks, reds, and whites make geraniums a favorite for flower beds and hanging baskets. These blooms represent happiness, health, peace, and friendship, making them a perfect addition to any garden or outdoor space. They love the sun, don’t mind a little drought, and will continue to bloom with proper care.

6. Petunias

Known for their vibrant colors and cascading growth, petunias are the perfect addition to containers, borders, or hanging baskets. Depending on the color, they symbolize love, passion, gentleness, and femininity. However, they are also believed to symbolize anger and resentment when someone with whom you have had a heated disagreement gives them to you. They’ll bloom non-stop throughout the season, bringing continuous color and energy to your garden.

Coneflowers (Echinacea)

These hardy perennials bring bold, daisy-like blooms in shades of pink, purple, and white to your garden. Coneflowers represent strength, healing, and resilience, attracting butterflies and bees while requiring minimal maintenance. They love the sun and will thrive in well-drained soil, adding both beauty and functionality to your garden.