Brighten Your Garden with Beautiful Blooms

Spring-flowering bulbs bring vibrant colour to gardens after the long winter months. Whether you’re growing tulips, daffodils, or crocuses, ensuring the best care will help them bloom at their fullest potential. If you planted bulbs in autumn, now is the time to nurture them for a spectacular spring display.

Step 1: Check for Emerging Shoots

As the weather warms up, keep an eye on where your bulbs are planted. ✔️ Look for Early Signs of Growth – Shoots emerging from the soil indicate your bulbs are waking up. ✔️ Protect from Late Frosts – If cold weather is still a risk, cover tender shoots with fleece or mulch overnight. ✔️ Watch for Pests – Slugs and snails love young shoots, so use wildlife-friendly deterrents.

Step 2: Watering & Feeding Bulbs

Although spring bulbs are relatively low-maintenance, they benefit from regular watering and feeding. ✔️ Water When the Soil is Dry – Bulbs in containers or dry beds may need extra moisture. ✔️ Feed with a Balanced Fertiliser – Once leaves appear, use a general-purpose fertiliser to promote strong flowering. ✔️ Avoid Overwatering – Too much water can cause bulbs to rot, so ensure good drainage.

Step 3: Deadheading & Post-Flowering Care

Once your bulbs have bloomed, proper aftercare will ensure they return even stronger next year. ✔️ Deadhead Spent Flowers – Remove faded blooms to prevent the plant from using energy on seed production. ✔️ Leave the Foliage Intact – Allow leaves to die back naturally, as they continue feeding the bulbs for next year. ✔️ Apply a Second Feed – A final application of fertiliser after flowering strengthens the bulbs for future growth.

Step 4: Digging & Storing Bulbs (If Needed)

If you’re short on space or want to change your garden layout, some bulbs can be lifted and stored. ✔️ Wait Until Foliage Dies Back – This ensures the bulb has absorbed enough nutrients. ✔️ Lift Carefully with a Fork – Shake off excess soil and inspect for damage. ✔️ Store in a Cool, Dry Place – Keep in breathable bags or trays in a shed or garage.

Step 5: Planning for Next Year’s Display

Now is also a great time to plan ahead for next spring. ✔️ Make a Note of Your Favourite Blooms – Identify which colours and combinations worked best in your garden. ✔️ Order New Bulbs in Advance – Many popular varieties sell out quickly in autumn. ✔️ Consider Layered Planting – ‘Lasagne planting’ in containers (stacking bulbs at different depths) extends the flowering period beautifully.

By giving your bulbs the right care now, you’ll enjoy a stunning spring display year after year!

📢 Spring bulbs are ready – don’t miss out!