Gardeners can ‘get ahead’ by planting five flower bulbs now for a vibrant garden in spring

From resilient lilies to wildlife-friendly liatris, gardeners are being advised on the best bulbs to now for a colourful and thriving garden later.

Fiona Jenkins, a expert from , explained the importance of understanding which bulbs are suitable for planting .

“If you’re looking to plant some bulbs now and get a head start on your gardening, it’s important to know what you can and can’t plant in winter,” she noted.

“Some bulbs simply won’t be able to stand the harsh weather conditions that brings, and they won’t be able to bloom.”

She also highlighted that selecting the right bulbs for winter planting is key to ensuring a vibrant come spring.

Lilies

Lily bulbs are quite resilient and can be planted at any time, from autumn to spring. These bulbs thrive in rich, well-draining soil and need plenty of sunlight.

For optimal growth, plant them 15 to 20 cm deep. Fiona suggests that if your soil is heavy or doesn’t drain well, you can grow lilies in pots or containers, creating a beautiful display for your patio. Once the lilies are well-established, they can be transplanted into garden borders.

Liatris

Liatris, a hardy perennial from North America, are great for attracting wildlife like butterflies and bees, according to Fiona.

“These plants are great for attracting wildlife, such as butterflies and bees, into your garden,” she explained.

Liatris bulbs produce large, eye-catching blooms that eventually form clumps, which can be divided in the spring.

To grow successfully, they need well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Plant these bulbs around five centimetres deep for the best results.

Tulips

While tulips are typically planted in autumn, Fiona noted that they can still create a stunning display when planted in winter.

These bulbs require well-draining soil in a sunny spot, blooming in spring around April or May.

Daffodils

Though traditionally planted in autumn, daffodils can also be planted in January and February for a spring bloom. Fiona recommended loosening the soil and adding some fertiliser before placing the bulbs on top.

It’s important not to push them into the soil, as this could damage the bulbs. Once in place, cover them with two to four inches of mulch or compost, and make sure to replace the mulch regularly to give the bulbs the best chance of flourishing.

Eucomis

Eucomis bulbs are usually planted in spring, but Fiona suggested that gardeners start them in pots and containers now to get an early start.

These bulbs should be planted around 15 cm deep to create a stunning summer display. Once the bulbs start actively growing, they can be planted in borders, but only after the last frost has passed.

By carefully selecting and planting the right bulbs now, gardeners can ensure a colourful and thriving garden in the months ahead.