If you want to fill your garden with colour next spring, plant bulbs from October to December, before the first frost. Daffodils, tulips, crocus, and grape hyacinths are just some of the plants to choose from.
Avoid any that are damaged, or feel soft, and go for plump, firm bulbs. Aim to plant within a week or they’ll start to sprout.
Herbaceous Borders
Bulbs are some of the easiest garden plants to grow, needing only a well-drained soil and some sunshine. As a general rule, plant bulbs two to three times their own depth and around two bulb widths apart.
Plant bulbs in herbaceous borders to fill in gaps and provide colour, try mixing different varieties to create a striking interest before perennials and shrubs begin to grow in early spring. Plant daffodils, winter aconites, tulips and fritillarias for outstanding colour.
Formal Planting
Spring-flowering bulbs make a valuable contribution to formal bedding displays. Try growing groups of early-flowering tulips in a bed which will be occupied by annuals later in the summer. As a general rule, the larger, showy varieties are better suited to a formal position in the garden.
Many spring-flowering bulbs are ideal for brightening up the base of trees before they come into full leaf. The soil beneath trees is moist and light, offering the perfect growing conditions for scillas, anemones, and crocuses.
Bulbs such as dwarf daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops and winter aconites can transform a dull looking lawn into a wonderful display of colour. To achieve a natural look, throw bulbs up in the air and plant them exactly where they land in the grass. The aim is to make it look as though they have decided to grow there by themselves.
Plant with a strong trowel or bulb planter - these are ideal for digging into heavy clay soil. To use, push the cylindrical blade down, twist and pull up a plug of soil. Drop the bulb in, flattest side down, and crumble the plug into the hole. In order to save time, try planting a large number of small bulbs by lifting a piece of turf and planting a group of bulbs in the soil.
Allow plants to die back before you mow over them.
Bulbs in pots
If you want a great patio display, try growing bulbs in pots. Keep it simple by planting a variety on its own or several of the same variety packed closely together for a bumper show. Several types can be planted together, but it can be difficult to get the flowers to appear at the same time. Pick a container that is the right size and will complement your chosen bulbs. Fill pots with general-purpose compost, mixed with a handful of horticultural grit to improve drainage. Water after planting.
Bulbs in pots need more care than those in soil. Keep the compost moist and protect from frost by wrapping with bubble wrap over winter. Cover with a piece of chicken wire to prevent squirrels, and mice from digging them out. Remove it when shoots appear.
Pop in and see us and get advice on your garden!
Claire Hayes
Horticulturalist, Powerscourt Garden Pavilion
