Planting Spring Flowering Bulbs

Once planted they will survive for years....

September is the best month for planting most spring flowering bulbs. (With the exception of tulips which should ideally be planted in November.) You will be rewarded with a fantastic display from early spring to early summer.

There are shapes and sizes of bulb to suit almost any position in the garden, so think carefully where you would like to have your spring display. Given a well drained soil, bulbs must be one of the easiest and most economical garden plants to cultivate. Once planted, they will survive for years with a minimum of maintenance.

Bulbs look best planted in groups of the same type, check the individual packets for depth (most bulbs are planted at two and a half times their depth) and distance. Don't just stick to borders and beds - try planting bulbs in containers or pots to brighten up a spring patio or doorstep. Many varieties look wonderful 'naturalised' in grass, particularly under trees or bushes. If you are planting a number of bulbs, especially in grass, try using a bulb planter. This is an inexpensive tool which makes light work of the job!