Bulbs Bulbs Bulbs!

We plant bulbs when they are dormant, so it's important to plan ahead for displays next spring by ordering and planting bulbs this autumn. There's often loads of special offers from online suppliers so shop around. I've started planting daffodils and into October I'll be doing more adding in crocus, iris, muscari, hyacinth, chionodoxia and then tulips once we get into November. I've even been known to be planting on Christmas Eve! We delay to November with tulips to decrease the risk of the fungal disease tulip fire. When planting in borders make sure the area is as weed free as possible and the soil isn't compacted. I always lightly fork the soil over first and then look to plant in blocks and groups. Single "soldiers" always look odd so if in doubt order more than you think you need and be generous in your planting groups. Invest in a good bulb planter and wait until the soil has had some rain so it's not such hard work! I do a lot of containers and it's important to choose a good quality, free-draining, soil-based compost (or peat-free compost mixed with some top-soil) and definitely add some grit. Whether you go for a single variety or plant up a "bulb lasagne" with multiple varieties planted in layers at different depths is very much a personal choice. Maybe do both! Talking of depths - a good rule of thumb is 2-3 times the height of a bulb. Reject any bulbs which are soft or mouldy and never plant with bulbs touching each other to reduce the spread of any disease. I always water bulbs in after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs, and after that for bulbs in beds and borders you'll not need to water again as rainfall will be sufficient. But, once those in containers start growing strongly in the spring - keep an eye on the soil and if it feels dry, water them. Be bold in your plans for displays because when spring comes you'll be so glad to see the results!