Why Outdoor Plants Are Worth Adding

Outdoor plants bring more than greenery - they create living, breathing outdoor spaces filled with colour, structure, and seasonal interest. From flowering shrubs to evergreen foliage, well-chosen outdoor plants can provide year-round appeal, privacy, wildlife habitat, and a connection to nature.

For patios, balconies or gardens, potted or planted outdoor plants offer flexibility: easy to reposition, swap seasonally or expand over time. Whether you want a low-maintenance garden or an abundant floral display - outdoor plants offer long-term value, natural beauty, and a sense of place.

Outdoor Plant Care Guide

• Light & Location:

Outdoor plants should be placed according to their light needs - full sun, partial shade, or shade. Check each plant’s preference before planting or potting. Protect delicate plants from harsh midday sun if required, and ensure adequate spacing for growth.

• Soil & Drainage:

Use suitable garden soil or potting mix, depending on plant type and whether planting in the ground or containers. Ensure drainage is good - for pots, make sure water drains freely; for garden beds, ensure soil isn’t waterlogged.

• Watering & Feeding:

Water thoroughly after planting, and keep the soil moist (but not waterlogged) until the plant establishes. In containers, monitor moisture frequently, especially in hot or dry weather. Use appropriate fertiliser or compost to support growth, especially for flowering plants.

• Seasonal Care:

Be mindful of seasonal changes - some plants need shelter or mulch in winter; others thrive in warmer months. Prune, dead-head, or shape plants as needed to promote healthy growth, flowering, or fruiting.

• Potting & Containers:

For balcony or patio gardening, choose appropriately sized pots or planters. Ensure drainage holes exist, and select hardy varieties suitable for container life.

• Wildlife & Environment:

Outdoor plants attract birds, bees, and butterflies - choose a variety of plants that offer flowers, shelter or fruits to support local biodiversity. Outdoor greenery enhances your home's connection to nature.

Frequently Asked Questions - Outdoor Plants & Garden Houseplants

What counts as an outdoor plant?

An outdoor plant is a species suitable for outdoor conditions - garden beds, patios, balconies, or yards - capable of handling the natural weather, light, temperature, and seasonal changes typical of UK climates.

Can I plant outdoor plants on a patio or balcony?

Yes - many outdoor plants thrive in pots or containers and are ideal for patios, balconies or small outdoor spaces. Choose species suited to container life and ensure pots have good drainage.

How often should outdoor plants be watered?

Initially after planting, keep soil moist until plants establish. Once mature, watering frequency depends on weather, soil, and plant type - more often in hot or dry weather; less in cooler, wetter seasons.

Are outdoor plants difficult to maintain?

Not necessarily. Many hardy shrubs, perennials, or container plants are low-maintenance once established. Seasonal care like watering, occasional feeding and pruning keeps them healthy.

Do outdoor plants survive UK winters?

Many garden and outdoor plants offered are chosen for their ability to tolerate UK winter conditions. However, some plants - especially tropical or tender species - may need protection or to be brought indoors during cold weather. This also depends on whether the plant is an annual or perennial.

What kind of plants suit small gardens or balconies?

Compact shrubs, container-friendly perennials, small fruit bushes, decorative foliage plants or compact ornamentals - especially those suited to pot culture - are ideal for small gardens or balcony spaces.

Do outdoor plants attract wildlife?

Yes - flowering plants, shrubs with berries, or plants with sheltering foliage can attract birds, bees and butterflies, adding eco-value to your garden, balcony or patio.

Our Promise

Every outdoor plant at Between Two Thorns is carefully selected for health, outdoor suitability, and resilience. We pot, prepare, and package each plant with care in our Brighton studio, ensuring safe delivery across the UK. Whether you’re starting a garden, updating a balcony, or planting a patio - our outdoor plant collection offers reliable, hardy, and beautiful plants to help you build the garden you want.