Tips for planting winter bulbs

As we move through the year, ensuring your green spaces are in order is important, particularly if you want them to remain somewhere to be proud of. Whilst that may sound like a big job to take on, it’s all about knowing which small details you should be taking care of and, most importantly, how. First up, it’s winter bulbs.

What are winter bulbs?

Winter bulbs are hardy bulbs that are planted between September and November, blooming in late winter or early spring, which include the likes of:

• Snowdrops (Galanthus)
• Crocuses
• Winter aconites (Eranthis)
• Daffodils (Narcissus)
• Tulips
• Hyacinths

When should you plant winter bulbs?

You’re looking for the time of year before the ground becomes too hard and waterlogged, making September to November prime planting time. For Daffodils, crocuses and hyacinths, these should be planted slightly earlier, between September and October. Whereas tulips can be held off until November (or even December) as they’re happier in colder soil, reducing the risk of disease; however, always aim for planting before the first frost.

How should you plant your winter bulbs?

Generally speaking, you should aim to plant your bulbs 2 or 3 times the height of the bulb itself, whilst ensuring you leave enough space between each bulb (roughly twice the width will work). Plant in well-drained soil to prevent rotting, adding sand or grit to the base if the soil is heavy clay.

Top tips for successful planting

1. Before you begin planting, take time to loosen the soil and enrich the area with compost or leaf mould
2. Avoid straight lines and opt to plant the bulbs in clusters for a more natural display
3. Winter bulbs are much better in pots, so be sure to check that drainage is good and protect your pots from frost with bubble wrap
4. To prevent the likes of squirrels and mice from getting to your bulbs, cover them with netting or use a layer of grit
5. Set yourself up strong for next year by leaving foliage to photosynthesise until it yellows, storing energy for next time
   
   

Looking for more advice or someone to get you started? Connect with one of our gardeners today!