Blooming amazing!

Tulip labyrinth is only one of its kind

In what is thought to be a world first, 8,000 tulips have been planted in the new turf maze at Arundel Castle, West Sussex, and have exceeded all expectations. The exclusive feature mixed red ‘Apeldoorn’ and yellow and red ‘Oxford’s Elite’ tulips, as they’re considered more tolerant of being planted in turf.

Created six years ago, the original maze comprised just grass and wild flowers, before the step was taken to include the tulips. Six people toiled for two days to plant the inspirational feature. “We’re delighted with how the tulips look within the maze, it’s a real wow factor,” said head gardener Martin Duncan.

Although the pathways between the tulips will be kept constantly mown, the section containing the tulips will only be mown after the bulbs have died down. The bulbs should flower in successive years, but with smaller flowers. Gardeners anticipate the bulbs will last three years before needing to be replaced.

The feature is just one of many at the castle involving 38,000 tulip blooms, one of the largest in the country and the largest the venue has ever staged. The next floral extravaganza is its extensive display of alliums, in season during May and June. ● Visit www.arundelcastle.org or tel: 01903 882173.