MAKING BULB MAGIC

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

Soil Well drained, as bulbs rot if they sit 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 a ernoon sun.

Planting Check the packet instructions for how deep to plant your bulbs, as the depth depends on the variety. As a general rule, 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 and should be planted pointy end down.

Care Water immediately a er planting. Apply slow-release fertiliser just before spring as the bulbs – which are stores of energy – use much of this energy to produce the flowers. A er the flowers fade, let the leaves return their energy to the bulb and only cut when they go limp. Top tips

• Choose bulbs that are plump, firm and dry. If so they may not produce flowers.

• The bigger the bulb, the greater the chance of big, bold blooms.

• Cover your soil with organic mulch to help deter weeds.

• If your dog loves to dig, cover the bulbs with chicken wire until leaves start to emerge.

• If you don’t like the effect of mass planting, go random by tossing bulbs on the ground and planting them where they land.

26 RANUNCULI’S rose-like flowers have tissue-thin petals, but their looks don’t reflect their strength. They’ll stay in flower for 6-8 weeks. 27 snowdrops emerge during late winter and early spring, just as cyclamens start to nod off for their summer slumber, making them excellent planting partners. 28 avoid getting daffodil sap on you as it can irritate your skin. 29 spring a surprise on your established garden bed by digging in tulip bulbs between shrubs in autumn. They will make your garden stand out beautifully!