April may be the peak of autumn, but it doesn’t mean a slowdown in your garden. 

Now is the time to plant the seedlings or sow the seeds of plants that put on their best show during winter, or use the dormant winter months to prepare for a bounty of blooms when the weather warms up.

Use this guide to what to plant in April, for a constant display that flourishes right through the cooler months into spring.

1. African daisies

A classic feature in many a South African winter garden, African daisies or gazanias are a mainstay in the gardener’s planting list for the beautiful, unexpected pop of bright colour they add to a garden through the cooler weather. They are low-growing evergreen perennial shrubs with striking daisy-like flowers.

Bonus: they’re also waterwise (particularly useful during the Cape summers and Gauteng winters), and easy to maintain. 

Interested in adding these beauties to your flowerbeds? Use these tips for how to care for your African daisies for the most rewarding results.

2. Calendulas

Another bright and cheerful-hued flower to add to your April planting list, calendulas, or ‘pot marigold’ as they’re also known, are an easy-growing annual that has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

In fact, the herb is so easy to maintain that it grows like a weed in many parts of Europe – so it’s not necessary to feed or water this plant very often. Add yours to your kitchen garden, and use dried petals as a substitute for saffron in hearty cold-weather dishes.

Grow your own calendulas with this guide.

3. Primulas

Another flower that is sure to brighten up your winter garden, and last right into spring, is the pretty primula.

Growing primulas will reward you with quick results and a bounty of flowers to lighten even the greyest wintry days. 

Plus, they are sturdy plants that seldom have any insect or disease problems, making them a choice addition to busy households.

Grow your primulas outside in the garden, or as a potted indoor plant in a spot that gets indirect light. 

4. Plumbago

A hedge plant counted on by many gardeners to put on a show of colour, this perennial shrub is known for its striking blue and white flowers.

If you’re looking to attract wildlife to your garden, the plumbago does not disappoint, drawing butterflies and bees to your outdoor sanctuary and enhancing biodiversity in your garden.

Explore other low-maintenance shrubs to add to your garden here.

5. Pansies

Cool-weather favourites, pansies are a go-to for adding a pop of colour to garden beds without too much hassle.

Generally falling in the ‘annuals’ category, they flourish in autumn and winter, with a display of heart-shaped velvety petals in a kaleidoscope of colours. 

Give these darlings full sun, regular watering and a little bit of all-purpose fertiliser, and watch them go! Get more tips for growing pansies here.

6. Violas

Another vibrant annual worthy of your planting list for April, violas join pansies in the Viola family. Being as hardy as they are, they can tolerate extremely cold weather, but if planted in a spot that gets winter sunshine, produce a burst of colourful flowers.

Growing violas is simple when you consider the rewards for putting in that little extra bit of care. Grow yours in a rich, well-draining soil, and water 1–2 times a week, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. This is important, as you don’t want the roots of the plant to rot.

With violas, there is more than meets the eye. Read about the benefits of violas, in and out of your garden, here.

7. Wild iris

Dietes, butterfly plant, or wild iris as it’s most commonly known, is a tough plant that will grow in most soils and, once established, will survive harsh growing conditions – even tolerating drought. 

Their iconic white flowers in the warmer months are a sight to behold and instantly recognisable for their yellow and violet markings. The beauty of this plant is that it has versatile uses in the garden. Use as a ground cover, as an accent plant or even in container gardening – take your pick!

Grow dietes or wild iris in full sun, and in well-drained soil for a profusion of blooms.

8. Salvias

Who can say no to the striking violet beauty of salvias in their garden, especially to lift the spirits on those chillier autumn days?

The salvia family, also known as sage, is a well-known and appreciated plant in both the flower and herb garden. Growing salvias is easy, if you get the basics right, and can reward you with a long flowering season from late spring to early autumn.

To help this water-wise beauty flourish, plant it in well-draining soil, and ideally in full sun. Salvia splendens and Salvia coccinea are especially valuable in summer and autumn gardens for their heat-resistance, and their ability to grow in full sun or partial shade.

9. Lobelias

A great option for an edging plant, lobelias are a shade-loving trailing plant that adds instant dimension and interest to your gardenscape. 

Lobelias are a staple annual often used for underplanting, to add depth and lushness, and bring out the natural beauty of outdoor spaces.

Learn more about gardening in shady spots with this guide.

10. Delphiniums

It wouldn’t be a complete April planting list without the striking delphinium, or larkspur.

Best in partial shade, when at its prime, this plant produces gorgeous large flower clusters – undeniably a statement in your garden. They are a natural choice for your autumn garden, being cold hardy, easy to grow and early to flower come spring.

Take your pick!

At your local Stodels garden centre, find everything you could possibly need for your April planting plans, including seeds, seedlings, tools – and of course, expert advice to ensure your autumn garden is as rewarding as the warmer seasons.