How to Grow Forget-Me-Not Flowers in the UK: Complete Growing Guide

Growing forget-me-not flowers in the UK is one of the easiest ways to create beautiful spring colour in your garden.

These charming little flowers are famous for their delicate blue petals and tiny yellow centres, although pink and white varieties are also available.

Forget-me-nots look particularly attractive in cottage gardens, woodland borders, raised beds, containers and around spring-flowering bulbs.

They’re also useful for filling gaps between larger plants and creating a natural-looking display.

One of the best things about forget-me-nots is that they’re relatively easy to grow from seed.

Once established, many varieties will self-seed, producing new plants that can flower in future years.

This makes them particularly useful for gardeners who enjoy flowers that return with relatively little effort.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I love planning flower displays that provide colour throughout the seasons.

Forget-me-nots are especially useful during spring because they can complement tulips, daffodils and other spring-flowering plants.

Their soft blue flowers create a beautiful contrast against bright yellow, pink, red and white spring bulbs.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing forget-me-nots in the UK.

We’ll cover choosing varieties, sowing seeds, planting, watering, flowering times, self-seeding, growing in pots and dealing with common problems.

Whether you’re growing forget-me-nots for the first time or hoping to establish a beautiful spring display, this guide will help you get started.

What Are Forget-Me-Not Flowers?

Forget-me-nots belong to the genus Myosotis.

They’re members of the Boraginaceae family.

The best-known garden species is Myosotis sylvatica, commonly called woodland forget-me-not.

This species produces clusters of small flowers, usually blue with yellow or pale centres.

Other species occur in different habitats, including damp ground and waterside locations.

What Colours Do Forget-Me-Nots Come In?

Forget-me-nots are available in several colours.

The most familiar are:

• Sky blue
• Deep blue
• Pale blue
• Pink
• White

Some cultivated varieties produce mixtures of different colours.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Annuals or Perennials?

This depends on the species.

Woodland forget-me-not, Myosotis sylvatica, is commonly grown as a biennial in UK gardens.

It usually develops leaves during its first growing season and flowers the following spring.

Some plants may behave as short-lived perennials.

Other forget-me-not species are perennial.

For this guide, we’ll concentrate mainly on the familiar woodland forget-me-not grown in British gardens.

Forget-Me-Not Growing Facts

Feature	Details
Botanical name	Myosotis sylvatica
Common name	Woodland forget-me-not
Plant family	Boraginaceae
Plant type	Biennial or short-lived perennial
Typical height	15–30cm
Flowering season	Usually April–June
Flower colours	Blue, pink and white
Preferred position	Sun or partial shade
Soil	Moist but well-drained
Main sowing period	May–July
Planting out	Late summer to autumn
Typical spacing	15–25cm
Difficulty	Easy
Self-seeding	Common
Pollinator friendly	Yes

Exact flowering dates depend on variety, location and weather.

Why Grow Forget-Me-Nots in Your Garden?

Forget-me-nots offer several advantages.

Beautiful Spring Colour

Their delicate flowers provide attractive colour when many summer plants are only beginning to grow.

Easy to Grow from Seed

Forget-me-nots generally germinate readily in suitable conditions.

Excellent for Cottage Gardens

They create soft, informal displays.

Useful Around Spring Bulbs

Forget-me-nots look particularly attractive beneath tulips and daffodils.

Suitable for Partial Shade

They can grow successfully in areas that receive some shade.

Self-Seeding

Many plants produce seeds that can germinate naturally.

Good for Pollinators

Their flowers can provide nectar and pollen for visiting insects.

Best Forget-Me-Not Varieties to Grow in the UK

There are several attractive varieties to consider.

Myosotis sylvatica ‘Blue Ball’

A compact variety producing masses of blue flowers.

Best for: Containers, edging and small borders.

Myosotis sylvatica ‘Victoria Blue’

A compact, bushy variety with blue flowers.

Best for: Spring bedding displays and containers.

Myosotis sylvatica ‘Victoria Rose’

Produces attractive pink flowers.

Best for: Pink spring displays and mixed borders.

Myosotis sylvatica ‘Victoria White’

A white-flowered form that works beautifully with colourful spring bulbs.

Best for: White gardens and mixed spring bedding.

Myosotis sylvatica ‘Ultramarine’

Known for its rich blue flowers.

Best for: Strong blue spring colour.

Myosotis scorpioides

Commonly called water forget-me-not.

This is a perennial species that prefers consistently damp or wet conditions.

Best for: Pond margins and damp garden areas.

Unlike woodland forget-me-nots, water forget-me-nots should not be planted in ordinary dry borders.

When to Sow Forget-Me-Not Seeds in the UK

Forget-me-nots are usually sown during late spring and early summer for flowering the following year.

Best Sowing Months

May, June and July are commonly recommended.

Can You Sow Forget-Me-Nots in March?

Early protected sowing is possible, but it is not usually necessary for traditional biennial growing.

Can You Sow Forget-Me-Nots in August?

Yes, although late sowings may produce smaller plants before winter.

Can You Sow Forget-Me-Nots in September?

It may be possible in favourable conditions, but plants have less time to establish before cold weather arrives.

When Will Forget-Me-Nots Flower?

Plants sown during late spring or early summer generally flower the following spring.

UK Forget-Me-Not Growing Calendar

Month	Gardening activity
January	Check established plants and winter drainage
February	Prepare for spring flowering
March	Watch plants begin active growth
April	Enjoy early flowers
May	Main flowering period; begin sowing new seeds
June	Continue flowering, collect seeds and sow
July	Sow seeds and grow young plants
August	Pot on seedlings and prepare planting areas
September	Plant young forget-me-nots
October	Finish autumn planting
November	Allow plants to establish
December	Check drainage and protect containers if needed

How to Grow Forget-Me-Nots from Seed

Growing forget-me-nots from seed is straightforward.

Step 1: Prepare Seed Trays

Use clean seed trays or small pots.

Step 2: Fill with Compost

Choose suitable peat-free seed compost.

Step 3: Sow Seeds Thinly

Scatter seeds thinly over the compost.

Step 4: Cover Lightly

Cover with a very thin layer of compost or vermiculite, following the seed packet instructions.

Step 5: Water Gently

Keep compost moist without making it waterlogged.

Step 6: Place Somewhere Suitable

A sheltered position with moderate temperatures is ideal.

Step 7: Wait for Germination

Seeds commonly germinate within approximately 10–21 days in suitable conditions.

Step 8: Pot On Seedlings

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or modules.

Step 9: Grow Plants On

Keep plants watered during dry periods.

Step 10: Plant Outdoors

Plant into their final positions during late summer or autumn.

How to Sow Forget-Me-Nots Directly Outdoors

Forget-me-nots can also be sown into a prepared outdoor seedbed.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Position

Select a sheltered location with reasonably fine soil.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground

Remove weeds and rake the surface.

Step 3: Sow Thinly

Scatter seeds over the prepared area.

Step 4: Cover Lightly

Follow the seed packet instructions.

Step 5: Water

Keep the soil moist during germination.

Step 6: Thin Seedlings

Remove overcrowded seedlings where necessary.

Step 7: Transplant

Move young plants to their final positions when established.

Where Is the Best Place to Grow Forget-Me-Nots?

Forget-me-nots are adaptable plants.

They grow well in several different garden situations.

Partial Shade

Partial shade is particularly suitable, especially in warmer or drier locations.

Full Sun

Forget-me-nots can grow in full sun if soil moisture is adequate.

Woodland Borders

They are excellent for natural-looking woodland planting.

Cottage Gardens

Their informal appearance makes them ideal for cottage gardens.

Spring Bulb Borders

Forget-me-nots work beautifully around tulips, daffodils and other bulbs.

Raised Beds

They can be used around the edges of raised beds where suitable.

Best Soil for Forget-Me-Nots

Forget-me-nots prefer soil that retains some moisture while draining well.

Moisture-Retentive Soil

They generally perform best where the soil doesn’t dry out excessively.

Good Drainage

Although they like moisture, woodland forget-me-nots don’t usually thrive in permanently waterlogged soil.

Clay Soil

They can grow well in clay soil if drainage is adequate.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil may need additional organic matter to improve moisture retention.

Compost

Well-rotted compost can help improve soil structure.

When to Plant Forget-Me-Nots Outside

Young forget-me-not plants are commonly planted during late summer and autumn.

Best Planting Period

August through October is often suitable, depending on plant size and conditions.

Why Plant in Autumn?

Autumn planting gives plants time to establish before spring flowering.

Can You Plant Forget-Me-Nots in Spring?

Yes.

Garden centres often sell established forget-me-not plants during spring.

These can be planted for immediate seasonal colour.

How to Plant Forget-Me-Nots Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Border

Remove weeds and loosen the soil where necessary.

Step 2: Water the Plants

Water potted plants before planting.

Step 3: Dig Planting Holes

Make holes large enough for the root balls.

Step 4: Space Plants

Allow approximately 15–25cm between plants, depending on variety.

Step 5: Position Plants

Plant at approximately the same depth as they were growing in their pots.

Step 6: Firm the Soil

Gently firm around the roots.

Step 7: Water Thoroughly

Water immediately after planting.

Step 8: Monitor Establishment

Check plants during dry weather.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Forget-Me-Nots?

Most compact woodland forget-me-not varieties can be spaced approximately 15–25cm apart.

Closer Planting

Closer spacing can produce a dense bedding display.

Wider Planting

Wider spacing allows individual plants more room to spread.

Avoid Overcrowding

Excessive overcrowding can reduce airflow and encourage fungal problems.

How to Grow Forget-Me-Nots in Pots

Forget-me-nots are excellent for spring containers.

They can be combined with bulbs or other spring bedding plants.

Choosing a Container

Use a suitable pot with drainage holes.

Best Compost

Choose peat-free multipurpose compost.

Position

Place containers in sun or partial shade.

Watering

Keep compost reasonably moist.

Feeding

A modest amount of suitable balanced fertiliser may help where nutrients become depleted.

Combining with Bulbs

Forget-me-nots look attractive with tulips, daffodils and hyacinths.

How Often Should You Water Forget-Me-Nots?

Forget-me-nots prefer reasonably consistent moisture.

Newly Planted Forget-Me-Nots

Water regularly until established.

Established Border Plants

Water during prolonged dry spells.

Container-Grown Plants

Check compost moisture frequently.

Avoid Waterlogging

Excessively wet soil can cause root problems.

Best Watering Method

Water around the base of plants.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Need Feeding?

Forget-me-nots generally don’t require heavy feeding.

Garden Soil

Plants growing in reasonably fertile soil may not need additional fertiliser.

Containers

Container-grown plants may benefit from modest feeding if compost nutrients become depleted.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen

Too much nitrogen can encourage leafy growth rather than flowers.

When Do Forget-Me-Nots Flower in the UK?

Woodland forget-me-nots usually flower during spring.

Main Flowering Period

April, May and June are typical.

Early Flowering

In mild conditions, some plants may begin flowering during March.

Late Flowering

Cooler conditions may extend flowering into early summer.

How Long Do Forget-Me-Nots Flower?

The flowering period varies, but established plants can provide several weeks of colour.

How to Keep Forget-Me-Nots Flowering

Forget-me-nots naturally have a seasonal flowering period.

However, suitable care can help maintain attractive displays.

Provide Suitable Moisture

Avoid allowing plants to become severely dry.

Choose the Right Position

Partial shade can help in warmer conditions.

Remove Damaged Growth

Remove unhealthy or badly damaged leaves where necessary.

Avoid Excessive Feeding

Heavy fertiliser applications are rarely needed.

Accept Their Natural Season

Forget-me-nots are primarily spring flowers.

They generally won’t continue flowering throughout summer like cosmos or petunias.

Should You Deadhead Forget-Me-Nots?

Deadheading is optional.

Why Deadhead?

Removing faded flowers can help keep displays tidy.

Why Leave Flowers?

Allowing flowers to develop seeds encourages self-seeding.

Best Approach

If you want forget-me-nots to return naturally, leave some flower heads to set seed.

If you want to prevent unwanted seedlings, remove spent flowers before seeds mature.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Come Back Every Year?

This is one of the most common questions about forget-me-nots.

The answer depends on the species and how the plants are grown.

Biennial Forget-Me-Nots

Many woodland forget-me-nots flower during their second growing season.

After flowering and setting seed, the original plants often decline.

Self-Seeding

Seeds may germinate naturally and produce new plants.

Perennial Forget-Me-Nots

Some species, such as water forget-me-not, are perennial.

Why Do Forget-Me-Nots Seem to Return Every Year?

New seedlings often replace older plants.

This can create the appearance of permanent plants returning annually.

How to Encourage Forget-Me-Nots to Self-Seed

Self-seeding is one of the easiest ways to maintain forget-me-nots.

Step 1: Allow Flowers to Fade

Leave some flowers on the plants.

Step 2: Let Seeds Mature

Avoid removing every spent flower head.

Step 3: Allow Seeds to Fall

Seeds may drop onto surrounding soil.

Step 4: Avoid Excessive Soil Disturbance

New seedlings may establish in suitable undisturbed areas.

Step 5: Identify Seedlings

Learn to recognise young forget-me-not plants.

Step 6: Thin or Transplant

Move seedlings if they become overcrowded.

Can Forget-Me-Nots Become Invasive?

Woodland forget-me-nots can self-seed freely.

In some gardens, they may spread more widely than expected.

How to Control Their Spread

Remove spent plants before seeds mature.

Pull out unwanted seedlings.

Thin crowded areas.

Avoid allowing plants to seed into unsuitable locations.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Difficult to Remove?

Young plants are generally easy to remove by hand.

Regular monitoring helps prevent unwanted spread.

How to Collect Forget-Me-Not Seeds

Collecting seeds is useful if you want to grow plants in a different area.

Step 1: Allow Flowers to Finish

Leave selected plants to produce seeds.

Step 2: Wait for Seed Maturity

Seeds should become dark and mature.

Step 3: Collect in Dry Weather

Choose dry seed-bearing stems.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Allow collected material to dry in a well-ventilated location.

Step 5: Separate Seeds

Carefully remove seeds from the dried material.

Step 6: Store

Place dry seeds in labelled paper packets.

Step 7: Keep Cool and Dry

Store until the next sowing season.

How to Grow Forget-Me-Nots with Tulips

Forget-me-nots and tulips make a wonderful spring combination.

Why They Work Together

Tulips provide height and bold colour.

Forget-me-nots create a softer, lower-growing layer.

Best Colour Combinations

Blue forget-me-nots with pink tulips.

Blue forget-me-nots with yellow tulips.

White forget-me-nots with red tulips.

Pink forget-me-nots with white tulips.

How to Plant

Plant tulip bulbs during autumn.

Position forget-me-not plants around the bulbs.

Allow suitable spacing for both.

Important Consideration

Avoid damaging existing bulbs when planting.

Best Companion Plants for Forget-Me-Nots

Forget-me-nots combine beautifully with other spring flowers.

Tulips

Excellent for colourful spring displays.

Daffodils

Yellow daffodils contrast beautifully with blue flowers.

Hyacinths

Hyacinths provide strong colour and fragrance.

Primroses

Primroses complement forget-me-nots in informal borders.

Wallflowers

Wallflowers provide additional height and spring colour.

Pansies

Pansies can extend colour in containers and bedding displays.

Hellebores

Hellebores can provide earlier seasonal interest.

Muscari

Grape hyacinths complement forget-me-nots with blue spring flowers.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Good for Bees?

Yes.

Forget-me-nots can provide nectar and pollen for visiting insects during spring.

Why Spring Flowers Matter

Many insects become active as temperatures rise.

Early flowers provide useful feeding opportunities.

Pollinators That May Visit

• Solitary bees
• Bumblebees
• Hoverflies
• Other small pollinating insects

Best Planting Approach

Combine forget-me-nots with a variety of other spring flowers to provide different floral resources.

Can You Grow Forget-Me-Nots in Shade?

Yes.

Woodland forget-me-nots are particularly suitable for partial shade.

Light Shade

Often ideal.

Full Shade

Plants may grow, but flowering can be reduced where light levels are very low.

Full Sun

Possible if soil moisture is adequate.

Best Advice

Choose a position with morning sun or light afternoon shade where possible.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Hardy in the UK?

Woodland forget-me-nots are generally hardy in UK gardens.

Established plants can usually survive normal winter conditions.

Winter Conditions

Cold temperatures are usually less problematic than prolonged waterlogging.

Container Plants

Pots may need additional protection during severe cold because roots are more exposed.

Should You Cover Forget-Me-Nots in Winter?

Established plants in suitable soil generally don’t need special protection.

Common Problems When Growing Forget-Me-Nots

Although forget-me-nots are easy to grow, some problems can occur.

Forget-Me-Nots Not Germinating

Possible causes include:

• Seeds drying out
• Unsuitable temperatures
• Sowing too deeply
• Poor seed quality
• Waterlogged compost

Forget-Me-Nots Not Flowering

Possible causes include:

• Plants being too young
• Insufficient light
• Excessive feeding
• Unsuitable growing conditions

Yellowing Leaves

Possible causes include:

• Waterlogging
• Drought
• Nutrient problems
• Natural ageing

Powdery Mildew

White powdery growth can appear on foliage.

Good airflow and suitable watering can help reduce problems.

Slugs and Snails

Young plants may suffer damage.

Aphids

Aphids may occasionally gather on tender growth.

Plants Dying After Flowering

This is often normal for biennial woodland forget-me-nots.

What to Do with Forget-Me-Nots After Flowering

Once flowering finishes, you have several options.

Allow Self-Seeding

Leave selected plants until seeds mature.

Collect Seeds

Save seeds for future sowing.

Remove Finished Plants

Once seeds have been collected or dispersed, remove old plants.

Compost Healthy Plants

Healthy plant material can usually be composted.

Prepare for Summer Flowers

Use the space for suitable summer bedding plants.

Can You Grow Forget-Me-Nots on an Allotment?

Yes.

Forget-me-nots can be useful in allotment flower borders and ornamental areas.

Suitable Locations

• Around spring bulbs
• Along pathways
• In flower beds
• Around suitable raised-bed edges
• In containers near sheds or seating areas

Benefits

They provide spring colour and can support visiting pollinating insects.

Important Consideration

Manage self-seeding to prevent plants spreading into vegetable-growing areas where they aren’t wanted.

Frequently Asked Questions About Forget-Me-Nots

Are Forget-Me-Nots Easy to Grow?

Yes. Woodland forget-me-nots are generally easy to grow from seed.

When Should You Sow Forget-Me-Not Seeds?

Usually May through July for flowering the following spring.

Can You Sow Forget-Me-Nots in Autumn?

Yes, although later sowings may have less time to establish before winter.

How Long Do Forget-Me-Not Seeds Take to Germinate?

Often approximately 10–21 days in suitable conditions.

When Do Forget-Me-Nots Flower?

Usually April through June in the UK.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Come Back Every Year?

They often return through self-seeding, although the original biennial plants may die after flowering.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Perennials?

Some species are perennial, but woodland forget-me-nots are commonly grown as biennials.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Self-Seed?

Yes. They can self-seed freely in suitable conditions.

Can Forget-Me-Nots Become Invasive?

They can spread readily through self-seeding and may need controlling.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Need Full Sun?

No. They grow well in sun or partial shade.

Can Forget-Me-Nots Grow in Shade?

Yes, particularly light shade.

Can You Grow Forget-Me-Nots in Pots?

Yes. They’re excellent for spring containers.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Forget-Me-Nots?

Approximately 15–25cm for many compact varieties.

How Often Should You Water Forget-Me-Nots?

Water according to soil conditions, keeping the soil reasonably moist.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Need Feeding?

Usually very little feeding is required.

Should You Deadhead Forget-Me-Nots?

It’s optional. Leave some flowers to set seed if you want self-seeding.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Hardy?

Woodland forget-me-nots are generally hardy in the UK.

Can Forget-Me-Nots Survive Frost?

Established plants usually tolerate normal winter frosts.

Why Are My Forget-Me-Nots Dying?

Possible causes include natural post-flowering decline, waterlogging or drought.

Can You Collect Forget-Me-Not Seeds?

Yes. Collect mature, dry seeds after flowering.

Do Forget-Me-Nots Attract Bees?

Yes. They can provide nectar and pollen during spring.

Can You Grow Forget-Me-Nots with Tulips?

Yes. They’re one of the classic spring planting combinations.

What Flowers Look Good with Forget-Me-Nots?

Tulips, daffodils, wallflowers, primroses and hyacinths are excellent choices.

Are Forget-Me-Nots Good for Cottage Gardens?

Yes. Their informal appearance is ideal for cottage-style planting.

Can You Grow Forget-Me-Nots on an Allotment?

Yes. They’re suitable for flower borders and spring displays.

Final Thoughts: Growing Forget-Me-Nots Successfully in the UK

Growing forget-me-not flowers is a wonderful way to bring beautiful spring colour into your garden or allotment.

Their delicate blue, pink and white flowers look fantastic alongside tulips, daffodils, wallflowers and other spring-flowering plants.

They’re easy to grow from seed and generally require little complicated maintenance.

For the best results, sow seeds during late spring or early summer and plant young plants into their final positions during autumn.

Choose a position with sun or partial shade and keep the soil reasonably moist.

Once established, forget-me-nots can self-seed, producing new plants for future spring displays.

If you prefer a more controlled garden, simply remove spent flowers before seeds mature.

Whether you’re creating a colourful cottage garden, planting spring containers or adding flowers to your allotment, forget-me-nots are an excellent choice.

And there’s something particularly lovely about seeing those little blue flowers appear when spring finally arrives.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!