Something NOW for baskets

[glow777]

A friend has just bought a pub and want to add a big splash of colour for the opening day - this weekend!.

They have 10 or so empty baskets that can be filled but obviously bedding plants are not ready yet and would be killed by the frosts. What can they put in the baskets (thats not too expensive) that will last a while until the bedding plants kick in.

Glo

PS I must be able to by them as plants from a local source / market

[glow777]

[betula]

Winter pansies will give loads of colour........................

[GrannieAnnie]

force some flowering branches? apple etc?   Guess forsythia and quince are finished there.

[glow777]

got to be for this weekend unfortunately

[GrannieAnnie]

branches that have buds beginning to swell can be forced quickly with hot water and steamy environment and light.
Also, they can be very cheerful even if they haven't quite opened with their pinky buds, maybe add some big bows in the same color? 

[manicscousers]

the only other things are pansies , primula and primroses, ivy, they're the only things I can think of  :)

[glow777]

thanks all - now to find a cheap source

[Rosa_Mundi]

You should still be able to find tulips in garden centres. Also double daisies, forget-me-nots and wallflowers.