September is traditionally recognised as the main month for planting Spring Flowering Bulbs in the garden. Bulbs have long provided colour and interest over many months in the spring so buying early and planting early will give you the best results. Here are a few of my favourites :

Dwarf Daffodils – These are amongst the most popular of all bulbs. Low growing and 

sturdy, these are ideal for more open garden positions, where the stems of taller varieties could be snapped in the wind. These are also great for using in tubs and window boxes, and look great when combined with Pansies, Ivies and other spring plants. ‘Tete-a-tete’ and ‘Jetfire’ are two winners.

Tulips – Tulips come in hundreds of varieties and lots of forms. These will flower later than most bulbs and are ideal for some later colour. Again the dwarf varieties such as ‘Red Riding Hood’ – a bright red, are great for all round garden use.

Crocus – If you want a great value bulb to plant that will multiply over time and cover a large area, try establishing some crocus bulbs in a border. Very low growing and bright too, these are generally the earliest of bulbs to flower.

Something a little different – Why not try some Colchicum? These are Autumn Flowering, so need planting NOW. Big pink flowers, these bulbs are generally sold individually but will quickly establish under trees or in partly shaded areas.

Some Bulb Growing Tips :

Bulbs are essentially a swollen root, so feeding with a ‘root fertiliser’ such as Bonemeal will really get your bulbs growing well. A small handful of fertiliser in the planting hole, and a feed after flowering will keep your bulbs in tip-top condition.

When buying, don’t go for the cheapest! These are generally smaller grade bulbs, which will give you less flower. Bigger bulbs mean bigger flowers!

Planting in small clumps of say 5 or 7 always looks more natural than rows of ‘soliders’ in the border!

Try using bulbs in Hanging Baskets for more colour with your pansies, ivies etc.

That’s all for now, good gardening!

Byron Lewis is Retail Manager at G-Scapes Plant Centre at Watery Lane, Lichfield. 

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