Maegan-Leigh JacobsApril has arrived, and the golden hues of autumn have begun to settle in, bringing cooler temperatures and a shift in the garden landscape.
Those born in this month are lucky to have two beautiful birth flowers: the daisy and the sweet pea. Both are lovely and distinctive flowers that are ideal for honouring family members and friends who were born in April. They also both have symbolic implications of their own.
The Daisy:
The daisy is a well-loved bloom recognised for its bright white petals and sunny yellow center. The name “daisy” originates from Old English—“day’s eye”—since the flower opens in the morning and closes at night.
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Meaning and symbolism:
Daisies represent innocence, purity, and true love.
In Norse mythology, they are linked to Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility, making them a traditional gift for new mothers.
Different colours carry unique meanings: white for innocence, yellow for joy, pink for admiration, and red for love.
Read more: Flowers that bloom in Autumn
How to grow and care for daisies:
- Sunlight: Full sun (at least six hours a day)
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil
- Watering: Moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings
Planting tips:
- In South Africa, daisies can be planted in early autumn for strong establishment before winter rains.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
- Divide plants every few years to maintain healthy growth.
The Sweet pea:
Known for its delicate petals and sweet fragrance, the sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) is a classic favorite in gardens and floral arrangements alike.
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Meaning and symbolism
Sweet peas symbolize blissful pleasure, gratitude, and good wishes.
In Victorian times, they were often given as a way to say farewell or thank you. In France, sweet peas are believed to bring good luck to brides.
How to grow and care for Sweet peas:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with added compost
- Watering: Regular watering, keeping the soil moist but not soggy
Planting tips:
Autumn is the ideal time to plant sweet peas in South Africa, allowing them to establish before the colder months.
- Soak seeds overnight before planting to encourage germination.
- Provide a trellis or support, as sweet peas love to climb.
- Deadhead flowers regularly to extend the blooming season.
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Bringing April’s birth flowers into your home
Both daisies and sweet peas make wonderful additions to South African gardens and bouquets. Daisies bring a fresh, cheerful energy to borders and flower beds, while sweet peas add fragrance and vertical interest when grown along fences or trellises.
Whether enjoyed in the garden or displayed in a vase, these birth flowers bring timeless beauty and meaning to any setting.
ALSO SEE: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO GROWING AFRICAN DAISIES
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