Everything you need to know about planting bulbs for stunning displays

As Autumn is coming to a close, it's time to think ahead to the burst of colours that will grace your garden come spring.

Planting bulbs is not just an act of gardening; it's a gift to your future self at a time of year when you are feeling so ready for colour.

So, let's jump into the art of planting bulbs, whether in the ground or pots, ensuring your garden becomes a beautiful place to be next Spring.

Planting in the Ground:

1. Pick the Perfect Spot:

Ensure your chosen area receives adequate sunlight and has well-draining soil. Bulbs generally prefer a sunny, sheltered location, but specific requirements may vary so always double check what you have bought.

2. Digging In:

Dig a hole about three times the height of the bulb. This provides ample space for roots to establish. For a visually appealing display, consider planting bulbs in clusters rather than single-file.

3. Planting Depth Matters:

As a general rule, plant bulbs at a depth equal to three times their height. Larger bulbs like tulips and daffodils should be planted deeper, while smaller ones like crocuses can stay nearer the surface.

4. Time it Right:

Autumn is the bulb-planting season, allowing them to establish roots before winter's chill. November is a perfect time for this, just make sure the ground is not frozen.

Potted Perfection:

1. Selecting the Perfect Pot:

Choose well-draining containers with adequate depth to accommodate the bulbs' growth. Ensure there are drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

2. Layering for Visual Appeal:

Create layers of bulbs within a single pot, placing larger bulbs at the bottom and smaller ones near the surface. This layering technique allows for a prolonged and visually stunning display.

3. Potting Mix Magic:

Use a high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter. This provides the necessary nutrients and promotes healthy growth.

4. Water Wisely:

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Potted bulbs may need more frequent watering than those in the ground.

How to reduce your bulbs getting eaten:

Your carefully planted bulbs shouldn't serve as a buffet for rodents. Mice and squirrels are notorious bulb thieves, but here are some options to deter them:

1. Protective Coverings:

Place wire mesh or chicken wire over the planted area. Ensure it's securely anchored to prevent digging.

2. Unappetising Additions:

Mix some crushed oyster shells or sharp gravel into the soil. Rodents find these textures unpleasant, deterring them from feasting on your bulbs

Last year I personally have tried using Shell on Earth as a topper to my pots which looked beautiful before the bulbs sprouted and did a great job as deterring mice and squirrels.

3. Natural Repellents:

Consider planting bulbs that these pests find unpalatable, such as daffodils. Their toxicity makes them less appealing.

I have armed with all the info you need to transform your garden into a spectacle of colour….Now you just need to get outdoors and get planting!