Petal-packed power Plant bulbs now for a rainbow of spring colour

YOUR LAST CHORE FOR AUTUMN IS PLANTING BULBS AND THE PAYOFF WILL BE WONDERFUL

as fragrance wafts from their frilly flowers, spring bulbs are just what you need to turn the winter chills into the thrill of spring. And now – in autumn – is the time to plant your bulbs, while the earth is still warm and soft. Then, when the late winter sun starts to arch higher in the sky, they’ll jump up from their slumber, bringing your garden back to life with vibrant colour, vigour and passion. All it takes is a gentle nudge from that still wimpy sun!

When to plant April in cool and cold regions and May in warmer areas when the weather and soil have cooled down.

Soil

Well drained, because bulbs will rot if they are sitting in constantly moist soil. It should be slightly acidic, so dig in organic fertiliser before planting.

aspect

Most bulbs prefer lots of gentle sun, so avoid planting in areas exposed to hot afternoon sun. If you have a shady spot that needs brightening up, plant snowdrops (Galanthus sp) or snowflakes (Leucojum sp).

Planting Check the packet instructions for how deep to plant your bulbs as the depth will depend on the variety. Generally, however, plant at a depth twice the size of the bulb. For a mass effect, plant about 10cm apart. Plant bulbs pointy end up, except ranunculi and anemone poppies. They are corms and tubers, so plant pointy end down.

Care

Water immediately after planting. Apply slowrelease fertiliser just before spring as the bulbs – which are stores of energy – use much of this energy to produce the flowers. After the flowers fade, allow the leaves to return their energy to the bulb and only cut them back when they go limp.

The broad, bright face of an anemone poppy.

1 passion for purples Can you take six weeks of this every time you step out your front door? That’s how long tulip flowers can last in your garden, especially if you live in a cool climate. These will certainly take the edge off the lingering chill.

2 casting shade There’s always a place in your garden where the sun doesn’t shine, but a dri of bluebells will bring light and laughter to that spot. Bluebells also come with pink or white flowers, but how about these striped jingling bells!

3 5 3 go up a wall Hang pots up a wall and fill with daisy-like anemones (A. blanda), crocuses, dwarf irises (Iris reticulata ‘Harmony’) and squills (Scilla siberica), then throw in pots of English ivy, primulas and violas, just for the heck of it! 4 Such a royal blue Elegance, grace and regal beauty are the hallmarks of the Dutch iris ‘Blue Magic’. Grow lots in your garden, then cut them for a dramatic indoor display. 5&6 sweet success! If spring has a scent, it’s the one that comes from hyacinths. Make the most of this perfect blend of sweet and spicy by planting along a path, or in a pot close to an open window. 4 6