What can a novice plant in a tub today?

[LilacBreastedRoller]

I've got a bit of time today and would really like to dip my toe into making my garden nicer. We have a sunny west facing patio which would be really cheered up by a couple of tubs. What could I plant that has a reasonable chance of survival? I'm hoping this will be the start of something lovely.

Go and buy some pansies. Easy to plant, and as long as you remember to water them when they look knackered a couple of times a week, they stay good for ages!
What about planting some herbs? But the growing ones from the supermarket, but be careful with mint as it spreads like mad!

Great ideas, thanks! The patio is right by the kitchen door so herbs would be great. I have been warned about mint before! I absolutely love pansies but wouldn't have had a clue whether it was a good idea to plant them now. Thank you!

im just getting started with mine too. Ive planted strawberries and mint in the hope of adding it to my pimms! Ive also just planted some peppers. Hoping for a bit of a kitchen garden

One tip - buy the biggest pots you can even if the plants look a bit silly to start. The bigger the pot the more compost you can fit in and the more room the roots (and so the plant) have to grow. Also you can water less often that way.

I find mint, sage, rosemary, thyme all excellent in pots. Parsley, I've not had much success with.

Also Lavender is a good one. Lovely smell and attracts bumblebees etc.

A small tree can add a bit of interest too.

Lobelia is lovely and easy to grow.

nasturtiums, poppy, cornflower or cosmos seeds are all quick and easy - or mini sunflowers.

I planted pansies about 6 weeks ago and they are fine.
You could always ask at a garden centre.

it's probably warm enough now for begonias. They are often cheap at Wilkinsons and Aldi.

Fuschias will take longer to grow, but are very colourful and will overwinter if mild. Same places. Look at the label illustration for colours you like, many are mauve but I prefer red and white.