Top 10 Most Popular Flowers And How To Care For Them

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, I check out the top 10 most popular flowers for home gardeners, and advice on how to care for them.

Do you crave a vibrant, flourishing garden bursting with colour and life? You’re not alone! Home gardening has become a beloved pastime, offering a chance to connect with nature and create a personal haven. But with countless flower options available, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming.

As a total novice on all things green fingered, today, I’m checking out research into the top 10 most popular flowers for home gardeners, along with expert tips to ensure they thrive in your personal green space.

UK plant nursery Ashridge Trees used Google Keyword Planner to analyse the number of monthly searches over the past year for 20 common flowers to determine their popularity among home gardeners.  The keywords measured included flower terms relating to gardening, such as ‘grow roses’, ‘plant geraniums’, ‘how to grow orchids’, ‘hyacinth seeds’ and ‘when to plant poppy seeds’. 

Top 10 Most Popular Flowers

Rank	Flower	Combined average monthly searches
1.	Rose	126,909
2.	Sunflower	112,567
3.	Poppy	111,677
4.	Hydrangea	85,428
5.	Peony	81,013
6.	Daffodil	73,302
7.	Tulip	65,718
8.	Lavender	61,432
9.	Daisy	57,336
10.	Iris	55,684

Rose

The rose was identified as the UK’s favourite flower for gardeners, attracting 126,909 monthly searches on average, and as it is also the name of my first daughter, it feels like the perfect flower for me.

Roses are known for their distinct petal shape and thorny stems, and come in a variety of colours, such as red, pink, yellow and white. They can be high maintenance compared to other flowers, requiring regular watering, pruning and fertilizing to prolong their health. 

• Sunshine is Key: Roses crave sunlight! Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sun a day for optimal growth and flowering.
• Location, Location, Location: Plant your roses in a spot with good drainage. Roses dislike soggy roots, so avoid low-lying areas or clay-heavy soil.
• Watering Wisely: Deep watering is essential. Aim for the equivalent of 1 inch of rainfall per week, delivered directly to the soil (not the leaves) to encourage strong root development.
• Feed for Success: Roses are hungry feeders! Regularly fertilize them during the growing season with a rose-specific fertilizer to promote vibrant blooms.
• Pruning Power: Prune your roses in early spring to remove dead, diseased, or weak canes. This will encourage healthy new growth and bountiful flowers.
• Disease Defense: Keep an eye out for common rose diseases like black spot and powdery mildew. Natural solutions or organic fungicides can help keep these issues at bay.

Sunflower

Following in second place was the sunflower, averaging 112,567 searches per month. 

Sunflowers have a striking appearance, with tall stems and large, vibrant yellow petals that frame a dark centre.

They are relatively low maintenance provided they’re positioned in a sunny spot and given room to grow as much as they need. 

• Sun Seeker: The name says it all! Plant your sunflowers in a location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Spacious Surroundings: Sunflowers are not fans of crowding. When planting, provide ample space between plants according to variety. Taller varieties may need 3-4 feet of space, while shorter ones can thrive with 1-2 feet.
• Water Wisely: While sunflowers are somewhat drought-tolerant, consistent watering is key, especially during dry spells and for younger plants. Water deeply at the base of the plant, aiming for the soil to be moist but not soggy.
• Staking Support: For taller sunflower varieties, staking is crucial to prevent them from toppling over under the weight of their impressive flower heads. Gently secure the stem to a stake as the plant grows.
• Feeding Frenzy (Optional): Sunflowers are generally not heavy feeders, but if your soil is lacking nutrients, a slow-release fertilizer can give them a boost for even bigger blooms. Opt for a fertilizer high in potassium, like tomato feed.
• Deadheading Delights: To encourage continuous flowering, deadhead your sunflowers by removing spent blooms. This will signal the plant to produce more flowers.

Poppy

In third place was the poppy, which generated an average of 111,677 monthly searches. 

Poppies are a comparatively small species and have delicate petals that are often red but can be other colours such as orange or pink. Once planted they are easy to maintain as they don’t require a lot of attention and can thrive regardless of soil type. 

• Light Up Their Lives: Poppies crave sunshine! Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth and flowering.
• Drainage Matters: These low-maintenance beauties thrive in well-drained soil. Avoid planting them in areas that tend to get waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
• Watering Wisdom: Poppies are surprisingly drought-tolerant once established. Water them regularly when young, but as they mature, they’ll be happy with occasional deep watering, especially during dry spells.
• Less is More with Feeding: Poppies are not big fans of fertilizer. In fact, too much nitrogen can lead to leggy plants with fewer flowers. Opt for a light touch with fertilizer, or skip it altogether if your soil is average.
• Deadheading for Double Duty: Removing spent flowers (deadheading) is a great way to encourage your poppies to produce more blooms throughout the season. This also prevents them from setting seed, which can lead to unwanted self-sowing in the following year.
• Embrace Self-Seeding (or Not): Poppies are prolific self-sowers, meaning they readily drop seeds that germinate the following year. This can be a delightful surprise, or it can lead to poppies popping up in unexpected places. If you prefer to control their spread, deadhead promptly before the seed pods form.

Hydrangea

Ranking fourth was the hydrangea with an average 85,428 monthly searches. 

Hydrangeas have big, rounded petals that produce a sypherical shape and can be found in a range of colours, such as blue or white. They are relatively easy to care for, although they thrive best in moist soil and partial shade.  

• Finding the Perfect Spot: Hydrangeas prefer the sweet spot between sun and shade. Aim for an area with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves and flowers. North-facing walls are a great option.
• Hydration is Key: The name “hydrangea” is a giveaway! These plants love consistent moisture. Water deeply at the base of the plant, aiming for the soil to be evenly moist but not soggy. During hot weather, you may need to water more frequently.
• Soil Secrets: Hydrangeas prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil. If your soil leans alkaline, consider adding amendments like peat moss or coffee grounds to lower the pH and keep those blooms blue.
• Mulch Magic: A layer of mulch around the base of your hydrangea will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Opt for organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark.
• Feeding Frenzy (But Not Too Much): Hydrangeas benefit from light feeding during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer or one formulated specifically for acid-loving plants can be applied once a month. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
• Pruning Prowess: Timing is everything when it comes to pruning hydrangeas. Most varieties flower on old wood, so prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or weak stems, and lightly shape the plant if desired.

Peony

Rounding out the top five was the peony, commanding 81,013 searches per month. 

Peonies are one of the most romantic flowers, with lush, full blooms that are most popular in shades of pink. They are hardy, low effort plants but need regular watering.  

• Location, Location, Location: Peonies crave sunshine! Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sun is ideal, with some afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent flower scorching.
• Planting Perfection: Don’t bury your peonies too deep! The “eyes” (buds) on the rootstock should be no more than 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deep can hinder flowering.
• Drainage is Crucial: Peonies dislike soggy feet. Choose a well-drained planting site with loose, fertile soil. Amending the soil with compost or aged manure before planting can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
• Watering Wisely: While peonies are somewhat drought-tolerant once established, consistent watering is key during their first year and during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plant, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Fertilizing for Success: Peonies are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can be beneficial, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
• Staking Support (Optional): For varieties with particularly large blooms, staking can be helpful to prevent the stems from flopping over. Use a sturdy support ring and loosely tie the stems to it as the flower buds develop.
• Deadheading Delights: Once the blooms fade, remove the spent flower heads to encourage the plant to focus its energy on healthy foliage growth. However, leave a few seed pods on the plant if you’d like them to self-seed (be aware this may take several years to produce flowers).
• Pruning Power: Peonies require minimal pruning. Simply cut back the stems to ground level in late fall or early winter, after the foliage has died back completely.

Daffodil

In sixth was the daffodil with an average of 73,302 monthly searches. 

A springtime favourite, daffodils typically have bright yellow petals engulfing a trumpet-shaped middle. They can thrive in lots of conditions and don’t need much attention, making them ideal for beginner gardeners. 

• Planting Power: Daffodils prefer a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Avoid planting them in waterlogged areas, as this can lead to bulb rot.
• Planting Perfect Depth: Plant daffodil bulbs in the fall, ideally 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes. A good rule of thumb is to plant them at a depth of two to three times the height of the bulb.
• Watering Wisely: While newly planted bulbs appreciate consistent moisture, established daffodils are fairly drought-tolerant. Water them during dry spells, especially in spring when they are actively growing.
• Fertilizing for Success (Optional): Daffodils are not heavy feeders, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can give them a boost. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some bone meal around the base of the plants in fall.
• Let the Leaves Linger: Resist the urge to cut back the daffodil foliage after the flowers fade. The leaves help the bulb replenish its energy for next year’s blooms. Allow the leaves to die back naturally before removing them.
• Deadheading Delights: Once the blooms fade, remove the flower head (deadheading) to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. However, leave the stem and foliage intact.
• Dividing for Density (Optional): Over time, daffodil clumps can become overcrowded, leading to fewer flowers. Every 3-5 years, you can dig up and divide the clumps in fall to create new plantings.

Tulip

Following in seventh was the tulip, which generated an average of 65,718 searches per month. 

Tulips are known for their classic cup shape and can be found in different colours such as red, yellow, pink and purple. They’re easy to look after and as perennial flowers, you can enjoy their beauty for several years.  

• Planting Powerhouse: Tulips are all about fall planting. Aim to plant them 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes, allowing them time to develop roots before winter.
• Sun Seeking Souls: These springtime stars crave sunshine! Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
• Drainage Matters: Tulips dislike soggy feet. Opt for a well-drained planting site with loose, fertile soil. Amending the soil with compost or aged manure before planting can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
• Planting Perfect Depth: A general rule of thumb is to plant tulip bulbs at a depth of two to three times their height.
• Watering Wisely: Newly planted bulbs appreciate consistent watering during fall and early winter. However, established tulips are fairly drought-tolerant once spring arrives. Water them during dry spells, especially when they are actively growing and flowering.
• Fertilizing for Success (Optional): A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can give your tulips a boost. Alternatively, you can mix some bone meal into the planting hole before setting the bulbs.
• Deadheading Delights: Once the blooms fade, remove the flower head (deadheading) to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. However, leave the stem and foliage intact as they help the bulb replenish its energy stores for the following year.
• Enjoying the Show: Tulips are typically grown as annuals, meaning they flower in the spring and then die back. After the foliage has completely withered and turned brown, you can remove the bulbs from the ground. However, some tulip varieties may naturalize and return year after year, especially in cooler climates.
• Winter Storage (Optional): If you’d like to try saving your tulip bulbs for replanting the following fall, carefully dig them up after the foliage has died back. Allow them to dry thoroughly in a cool, well-ventilated spot before storing them in a paper bag or mesh basket over winter.

Lavender

Ranking eighth was lavender, averaging 61,432 monthly searches. 

Lavender has a distinct appearance, with clusters of tiny purple flowers on each stem – but they are equally beloved for their calming scent. They can be maintained easily, making them the ideal choice for a hassle-free harden. 

• Sun Seeker: Lavender hails from the Mediterranean and thrives in sunshine. Aim for a location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day. This will promote healthy growth, abundant blooms, and the strongest fragrance.
• Drainage Champion: Excellent drainage is key to happy lavender. These plants dislike soggy roots, so avoid planting them in clay-heavy soil or low-lying areas prone to waterlogging. Raised beds can be a great option.
• Soil Secrets: Lavender prefers poor to moderately fertile soil, and even thrives in slightly alkaline conditions. Amending the soil with sand or gravel can improve drainage in heavier soils. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Watering Wisely: Newly planted lavender needs consistent watering during its first summer to establish a strong root system. Once established, these drought-tolerant plants require minimal watering. Water deeply at the base of the plant during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Pruning for Perfection: Regular pruning is essential for maintaining a healthy, bushy lavender plant and encouraging continued flowering. Prune lightly after the first flush of blooms in early summer, and again in late summer or early fall to remove spent flowers and promote bushier growth. Avoid pruning into old wood, as lavender flowers on new growth.
• Deadheading Delights: Throughout the flowering season, deadhead spent blooms by pinching them off just below the flower head. This will not only improve the overall appearance of the plant but also encourage it to produce more flowers.

Daisy

In ninth place was the daisy, which generated 57,336 searches per month. 

Daisies have a simple appearance, with delicate white petals surrounding a bright yellow centre – and they are one of the smallest flower varieties. They’re also easy to maintain as they can grow in many different conditions.  

• Sunshine Seekers: Daisies crave sunshine! Aim to plant them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This will ensure vibrant blooms and healthy growth. Some varieties can tolerate partial shade, but expect fewer flowers.
• Drainage Matters: While daisies enjoy consistent moisture, they dislike sitting in soggy soil. Choose a well-drained planting site with loose, fertile soil. Amending the soil with compost or aged manure before planting can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients. Raised beds are a great option if your soil is heavy clay.
• Watering Wisely: Water your daisies regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim for the soil to be evenly moist but not soggy. Newly planted daisies will need more frequent watering until they establish a strong root system.
• Feeding for Success (Optional): Daisies are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can give them a boost, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Deadheading Delights: Once the blooms fade, remove the spent flower heads (deadheading) to encourage the plant to produce more flowers throughout the season. This also prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production.
• Dividing for Density (Optional): Over time, daisy clumps can become overcrowded, leading to fewer flowers. Every 3-5 years, you can dig up and divide the clumps in spring or fall to create new plantings.

Iris

Completing the top ten was the iris, which attracted an average 55,684 monthly searches. 

Iris flowers have stunning wilted petals that create a unique shape, and are  found in a range of colours, with purple arguably the most common. They survive best in well-drained soil and full sunlight. 

• Sunshine and Space: Irises are sun worshippers! Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth and flowering. They also prefer good air circulation, so avoid planting them too close together or crowded by other plants.
• Drainage is Key: These beauties dislike soggy feet. Choose a well-drained planting site with loose, fertile soil. Raised beds can be a great option if your soil is heavy clay. Amending the soil with compost or aged manure before planting can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients.
• Rhizome Royalty: Irises grow from fleshy underground structures called rhizomes. When planting, position the rhizomes horizontally on the soil surface, with the roots and fans of leaves pointing upwards. Avoid burying them too deeply, as this can hinder flowering.
• Watering Wisely: Newly planted irises need consistent watering to establish a strong root system. Once established, they are fairly drought-tolerant. Water deeply at the base of the plant during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal diseases.
• Fertilizing for Success: Irises are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges can be beneficial. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Deadheading Delights: Once the blooms fade, remove the spent flower stalks (deadheading) to improve the overall appearance of the plant. However, leave the foliage intact as it helps the rhizome store energy for next year’s blooms.
• Dividing for Density (Optional): Over time, iris clumps can become overcrowded, leading to fewer flowers. Every 3-5 years after flowering, you can carefully dig up and divide the rhizomes to create new plantings. Look for healthy, firm rhizomes with new growth emerging.

Favourite Plants

The rose being crowned the nation’s number one flower for home gardening may come as no surprise to avid gardeners. They’re adored for their beauty, fragrance and symbolism of love, which is why they are often considered the most romantic choice for Valentine’s Day. 

Alongside personal preference, choosing the right plant for your garden and the time of year also matters. When deciding which flowers to grow, it’s important to consider the type of flower and the environment it thrives in best to determine whether it’s the right time to plant.  

Most flowers are best planted in spring or autumn due to mild temperatures and moisture in the ground. However, some prefer cooler or warmer climates. The sunflower is a popular choice due to its striking size and vibrant colour, which blooms beautifully during late summer. 

Poppies, on the other hand, can be planted during early spring, especially the California, Iceland and Oriental varieties, all of which thrive in mild or cooler climates, and can even tolerate some frost. 

Other flowers that are ideal choices to be planted in spring include tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, irises and peonies. If you’re planning to grow your garden, these are perfect choices as they love the cooler temperatures but will appreciate the extra sunlight as the days begin to get longer. 

If you’re a beginner, it’s a good idea to start small with a low maintenance flower such as marigolds. Ensuring that the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter, as well as maintaining a regular watering schedule, will allow them to grow to their fullest potential. 

Flowers make a fresh addition to any green space and are the perfect option for brightening up a garden after the dull winter months. Just remember that different flowers have different needs. Check guidelines for any flower you might want to plant, and when in doubt, you can always consult your local garden centres or wider gardening community.

-Julian de Bosdari, CEO of Ashridge Trees

Methodology

A list of 20 common flowers was created after researching the most common varieties online and compiling the most popular choices on Google Trends. Search terms relating to the flowers were input into Google Keyword Planner to provide national and regional search volumes from the past 12 months. These terms were ‘plant sunflowers’ ‘grow sunflowers’ ‘sunflower seeds’ ‘how to grow sunflowers’ and ‘when to plant sunflower seeds’ with ‘sunflower’ replaced with each flower type. The search terms were calculated to provide a total and then divided by 12 to produce a monthly average. This was scaled to per 100,000 people within the UK population.