...or try this
1 Plant brunnera and hepaticas in spring
Out of all the plants in this group, the brunnera is the most vigorous, so take care to keep it from overwhelming its smaller companions. It prefers shade and moisture at its roots so be sure to work in well-rotted organic matter before planting in spring, and mulch around plants annually. Large clumps can be lifted and divided every three years in spring. Foliage dies back in autumn and it’s best to clear away these tattered leaves to stop them detracting from the early-flowering bulbs. For hepaticas, make extra sure the site is weed free and away from any thuggish neighbours. These plants dislike disturbance and tend to be slow to establish so you really don’t want to be moving them a year after planting. Buy plants from a specialist nursery in spring and keep them well watered during their first few months. Mulch with leafmould each autumn and clear away old leaves before flowering. The first flowers may appear as early as January with the main display during mild spells in February and March.
2 Add the chionodoxa and crocus in early autumn
Both the chionodoxa bulbs and crocus corms can be planted in early autumn. Plant them fairly deeply around 10-12cm (4-5in), in large numbers to ensure a really bright and bold display. The biggest threat comes in the shape of squirrels and mice, so plant them deeply and cover the area with a fine mesh to dissuade pests. When plants have finished flowering, resist the urge to tidy away their foliage or you’ll be depleting the vigour of next year’s display.
3 Finish with the cyclamen
Cyclamen coum are available to buy as tubers in autumn (plant them with the rounded side down, just under the soil surface) however survival rates can be poor if they’ve dried out too much. Potted plants are more expensive but offer a better rate of establishment, and they’ll give you a chance to choose foliage patterns and flower colour. For gorgeous silvery leaf markings look for Pewter Group and Silver Group plants. Mulch the soil annually with plenty of leafmould and if you’re on heavier ground, improve the drainage with extra grit before planting. Cyclamen self-sow when happy, popping up in any number of places.