Although we’re heading into winter, it’s time for all bulb-loving gardeners to start thinking about what spring bulbs you’d like to see bringing your garden back to colour and life.
To make it easy for you, we’re putting together a list of five easy-to-grow bulbs you can plant between November and December. These bulbs are easy going and will grow in any soil, sun or semi-shade. We always like to suggest the best conditions for success however if you’re looking for something to ‘throw in the ground’ these will give you the best chance of an impressive spring display.
Daffodils
There are few bulbs that bring as much immediate colour to a spring garden as Daffodils – their bright yellows, oranges and whites an absolute treat! These hardy bulbs can be planted any time until the end of November, and prefer a loamy, slightly acidic soil.
Ideally, you’ll want to plant your Daffodil bulbs in:
- Full or partial sun
- Well-drained soil that remains moist throughout the growing season
Plant them with the pointy side up, about 2 to 3 times as deep as the bulb is high. Space them about 3 to 6 inches apart, and in large clumps for best effect. Sprinkle some fertilizer in the holes too, to ensure the bulb has food throughout its growing season, and add mulch as the winter thaws to retain moisture in the soil.
Crocuses
Crocuses come in a wide variety of colours and can be scattered into lawns and grassy areas to naturalise them, or as clumps of colour all over the garden. Crocuses can be planted in almost any area apart from overly dense shade, so select areas that get some sun at least!
To plant your Crocuses, choose a site that has:
- Well-drained soil
- A good ratio of organic mulch, compost or peat to a depth of at least 10inches
Plant your Crocuses pointy end up to around 3 or 4 inches in depth, and in clusters for maximum colour block effect when they bloom – ideally look to plant at least 10 bulbs or more in a group.
Tulips
The stunning array of tulip colours, sizes and shapes make this magnificent bulb an absolute spring must. Blooming from early spring right through early summer, meaning you’ll get great value from these amazing bulbs. Tulips can be planted into December in warmer autumnal areas and should be chilled for about 12 weeks prior to planting, so check that your bulbs have had this chill time.
To get the best from your Tulips, you should plant them:
- In full or afternoon sun
- In well-draining soil that is neutral or slightly acidic and is more sandy than loamy.
Plant your bulbs fairly deep – around 6-8 inches or about 3 times the height of the bulb and ensure that the soil is well-loosened and enriched with a balanced fertilizer. Place the bulbs with the pointy side up and cover well with loosened soil.
Grape Hyacinth
These miniature hyacinths are a stunning addition to a spring garden and look much like their larger namesake but only stand about 6-8 inches high. They spread really quickly and aren’t fussy about sun or shade, so can be planted in many different areas of a garden.
Ideally, you should plant your grape hyacinth:
- In loosened, well-drained soil
- In shady or sunny areas where the plants have space to spread
Plant your bulbs in large clumps of 10 or more, and in holes twice as deep as the height of the bulbs, as well as around 2 inches apart. The bulbs will only begin to flower in mid-spring, adding a sudden burst of colour to your already bright garden.
Winter Aconites
These delightful bulbs are of the first to break the winter cold and bloom, adding early spring colour to your garden as it comes to life. Very low maintenance, and able to grow in full sun, these bulbs can also be planted under trees as by the time they come into leaf, the flowers will already have peaked.
To get the best results, you should plant your Winter Aconites in:
- Moist, well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter and mulch
- Soil that is not too high in clay
Ensure you plant your bulbs in holes about two inches deep and water well after planting to ensure the area doesn’t dry out as the ground starts to thaw.
Remember, if you need to calculate how many bulbs you need for each bed, you can use our handy online calculator which can be found on every bulb page.
And contact us if you need any advice or guidance, we’re here to help! Call us on 01205 260412 or email info@gee-tee.co.uk.