Forget-me-nots are easily some of the most iconic and beloved spring flowers out there. You can find them growing wild almost anywhere in the world, and the best part? They’re incredibly low-maintenance. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a cozy balcony, these little beauties will feel right at home. Just keep in mind that the “perfect” spot depends on which variety you’re growing.
Finding the Perfect Spot and Soil
The two most common types you’ll run into for home gardening are the Wood Forget-me-not and the Water (or Marsh) Forget-me-not. They have slightly different “happy places,” but they both agree on one thing: they aren’t big fans of harsh, direct midday sun.
The Wood Forget-me-not loves a bright but shady or semi-shaded spot with soil that stays consistently moist. On the other hand, the Water Forget-me-not thrives near pond edges or in boggy garden areas, preferring semi-shade to full sun. For both types, you want soil that drains well—even the water-loving variety doesn’t like sitting in stagnant, swampy puddles. Aim for nutrient-rich, slightly acidic soil (a pH between 6.5 and 7 is the sweet spot). A little fresh compost every now and then is usually all they need to stay well-fed.
When to Plant and How Much Space They Need
If you’re picking up established plants from your local nursery, you can pop them in the ground starting in May. If you’re a DIY gardener starting from seed (which you can do on a sunny windowsill as early as February), you can move those little seedlings into the garden during the summer. This gives them plenty of time to get settled before they bloom the following spring. Just a heads-up: even though they are hardy, it’s a good idea to protect them during the winter with some garden fleece or evergreen branches if a deep freeze is on the way.
Spacing Tips
If you’re planting them in a garden bed, give them about 8 inches (20 cm) of breathing room so they have space to spread out. If you’re using balcony boxes or containers, you can tuck them in a little closer—about 6 inches (15 cm) apart. Proper spacing isn’t just about looks; it keeps the air moving. If things get too crowded and humid between the leaves, you’re basically rolling out the red carpet for fungal issues.
Choosing the Best Garden Neighbors
Forget-me-nots look absolutely stunning when their sky-blue petals are paired with other spring favorites. If you’re looking for some great “plant partners,” try mixing them with:
- Primroses
- Tulips
- Daffodils
- English Daisies
- Marsh Marigolds
- Monkeyflowers
