SPRING FLOWERING BULBS

Bulbs are a plant’s stored up food supply for growth and flowering the next season. The term bulb loosely covers all bulbs and includes tubers, corms and rhizomes.

Bulbs are made up of layers of fleshy scales. An onion, liliums and daffodils are true bulbs.

Corms are solid flesh, sometimes woody looking. As the corm grows ‘cormlets’ are formed and the old one shrivels up and disappears. Gladioli, freesias and anemones are corms

Tubers are thickened shoots. The best-known tuber is the potato. Cyclamen and begonias are also tubers.

Rhizomes are fleshy creeping stems that produce roots and flower spikes. A good example is the Flag Iris.

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When to plant

Most popular spring flowering bulbs such as anemones, hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips are planted in autumn. Popular summer flowering bulbs such as nerines, dahlias, and begonias are planted in late winter to early spring.

Where to plant

Plant your bulbs where they will get at least six hours of sunlight per day, and into well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging, as bulbs are susceptible to rot in overly wet conditions. If your soil is heavy or poor draining, consider amending it with compost and coarse sand to improve drainage.

Plant in clumps, at random, scattered in the garden or under deciduous trees, in drifts of colour, using combinations that complement each other, or in borders among annuals, perennials and shrubs. Smaller delicate bulbs are better suited to rockeries.

How to plant

Prior to planting, enrich the soil with a generous application of ican Real Blood & Bone.  

Planting bulbs at the correct depth and the right way up is crucial for their success. Always check the packet for full planting instructions. As a general rule of thumb, bulbs are planted at a depth 2 to 3 times the size of the bulb.

Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage root growth. Once planted, bulbs generally require minimal care.

‍After care

Most bulbs are not heavy feeders, but an application of ican Bulb Food when shoots appear above ground and again after flowering, will ensure plenty of flowers the following season.  

After flowering, allow the foliage to yellow and wither naturally as this process replenishes the bulb's energy for the following year. Refrain from cutting the leaves until they have completely died back.

Most bulbs can be left in the ground for years unless they become overcrowded. Lift and store bulbs if they need more room, or could be ‘cooked’ during a hot summer or frozen during cold winters. Dig your bulbs up when the leaves are yellowing, leaving these attached until they dry off naturally. Store clean bulbs in a cool dry airy dark place, in trays or net bags.

Sometimes, bulbs don’t flower in their second year. Possible reasons include

• poorly drained soil,

• too much shade,

• lack of nutrients during the growing season,

• the removal of leaves too quickly after flowering.

Watering

Spring flowering bulbs should receive enough water with winter rain but may need additional watering during their growing season if the season is dry.

Mulching

All bulbs will benefit from a layer of mulch to keep the soil cool and moist. Apply a layer of mulch approximately 2cm thick soon after planting.

Pests and diseases

Bulbs are reasonably pest and disease free.

Slugs and snails love new bulb shoots and flowers.  Regularly apply Blitzem Slug and Snail pellets or Quash pellets.

Aphids and thrips are the main insect problems—spray at first sign with Enspray 99 + Groventive.

Other uses

Bulbs are great for picking and their fragrance fills the room.

Bulbs grow well in patio pots, tubs and bowls.  The best spring bulbs to grow in containers are daffodils, freesias, hyacinths, grape hyacinths, lachenalia, tulips, bluebells, and crocus.

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