Garden lovers only have a matter of days to get a favourite flower in the ground ahead of spring. As plants and flowers have already died back for winter, many gardeners are already looking ahead to the next season.
To stay ahead of the game, there are a variety of optimal times to plant specific bulbs to get the best results. It is easy for the deadlines to slip from the mind while Christmas and winter preparation are in full swing. However, if you fancy a flower bed full of tulips next year, then this is the time to do it.
The colourful flowers are among the first to bloom in the spring, with their eye-catching displays brightening up gardens and parks. They are often planted in containers and borders, serving as a signifier of the changing seasons.
Many people opt to grow their tulips from bulbs, which can be bought now. Dry bulbs can be planted from September through to November while the plant is dormant.
Gardeners’ World has even suggested November is the ideal month to plant the tulip bulbs. They must be planted in moist but well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
The colder conditions that come with November help the bulbs fight off fungal disease, tulip fire. The infection thrives in warmer and wetter conditions, so the recent cold spell should hopefully come as a benefit.
Colder soil can also help the roots develop before winter fully sets in, which can lead to sturdier stems and larger flowers. Planting later on in the season can even prevent the bulbs from sprouting too early next year, where they could be damaged by frost.
When planting tulips in the ground, make sure it is a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Dig holes about 6 to 8 inches deep and keep the bulbs 4 to 8 inches apart.
They should be placed pointy side up and the flat side facing outwards. If you choose to plant your bulbs in containers, make sure it has drainage holes and use good-quality, peat-free compost.
Keep the bulbs quite close to each other, but make sure they don’t touch. You also need to make sure they are protected from the elements by preventing frost with bubble wrap or cardboard.
It is best if you can get tulips in the ground by the end of this month, but if you do miss out, then do not fear. Garden centres will be selling plenty of potted tulips in the spring, so you can still get a colourful addition to your own garden.
Comments are closed.