Order early spring bulbs in the green

Some winter- and spring-flowering bulbs are best planted when they’re in full growth, rather than as dormant bulbs in autumn. This technique is known as planting in the green and it’s the best way to establish snowdrops, winter aconites and English bluebells.

1 Choose a reputable grower In late winter and early spring, when other bulbs are pushing through the soil and perennials are yet to emerge, it’s easy to spot gaps in your bulb displays. Take the opportunity to order in-the-green bulbs from a trusted supplier.

2 Plant them quickly Bulbs in the green are dug up by growers between February and April and dispatched quickly. Plant them as soon as you receive them so they don’t dry out.

3 Make sure depth is right Plant them at the same depth as they were growing in the nursery bed (bury the white section of the stems but don’t plant any deeper). Space snowdrops and winter aconites 6-8cm (2½-3in) apart and bluebells 10cm (4in) apart so that the bulbs have room to develop.