Beautiful bulbs
April is the best time to plant bulbs as the cooler temperatures allow their roots to settle in and new growth to develop. They might not look like much now but come September, they’ll reward you with a stunning display! Choose a spot where you can enjoy your springflowering bulbs to the fullest. Plant low-growing bulbs in the front of a border and medium to tall ones behind them. Also try large groups, drifts, and interspersing bulbs with spring annuals such as sweet alyssum, snapdragon, pansy and primula. Bulbs can also be planted in pots, but remember that they don’t like areas with excessive heat radiation as they prefer cool soil – avoid driveways, paths or sunny walls unless some form of protection is provided.
SOIL PREPARATION Prepare beds or containers a week or two before planting your bulbs to allow fertilisers time to dissolve, otherwise they may burn the bulbs. Before planting, dig in a generous amount of compost followed by a handful of fertiliser or bonemeal and water well. For pots, add water-retaining granules to help the soil retain moisture during dry spells. Feed throughout the growing season and after flowering with 3:1:5 Vita Flower or 2:1:1 Bulb Food. Avoid using fresh manure as this may burn bulbs.
PLANTING Always read planting instructions carefully. A general rule is that bulbs should be planted at a depth of three times the actual height of the bulb. Space large bulbs 10–15cm apart and small bulbs 3–5cm apart. If you’re opting to plant your bulbs in containers, a pot about 10–15cm deep will suit most bulbs, but Ranunculus, Ixia and daffodils need a deeper container.
Never press the base of the bulb hard into the soil as it will compact. Place a tablespoon of river sand under the bulb to ensure a secure but not too tight base.
WATERING Even though no foliage is showing, activity is taking place, so start watering your bulbs as soon as they are planted, otherwise they may fail to flower. The bulb establishes itself by putting out its root system, and for this it needs moisture. Add a layer of mulch to the soil to help retain moisture. Ensure that your pots have adequate drainage but never allow the bulb roots to dry out. Remember to water pots daily.
POSITION Anemones, Ranunculus and indigenous bulbs (except Freesias) like full sun, while daffodils prefer morning or partial sun. Freesias, Hyacinths and grape hyacinths enjoy semi-shade.