Gardener says plant these four bulbs this weekend for gorgeous springtime displays
As the gardening year begins to wind down, Thornbridge Hall’s senior gardener, Noah, says there’s one job he never misses in late autumn and early winter: planting spring bulbs.
Noah Mabey, Senior Gardener at Thornbridge Hall told Platinum Spas, “People think the cold season is all about tidying up and trimming back, but for me, it’s really about planning ahead for the most colourful part of the year. If you want a stunning spring display, now is the best time to get bulbs in the ground.”
According to Noah, the magic really begins in late November, when soil conditions are ideal for planting and the bulbs can settle in before winter. He said,
“Late autumn and early winter soil still holds warmth, which helps roots establish. Then winter cold gives bulbs the chill period they need to flower properly.”
So, what should home gardeners be planting right now? Noah shares his top bulb picks to plant now, for gorgeous springtime displays:
Tulips
“For tulips, I always wait until we’ve had a few good frosts. Those early frosts help kill off diseases like tulip fire. Then I get planting.”
At Thornbridge Hall, tulips are taken seriously. “We’re planting 3,000 this yea. I love them because they bring such vibrant, dramatic colour. You can go elegant, bold, pastel, neon - whatever style your garden has, there’s a tulip for it.”
He recommends planting them deeply in well-drained soil, ideally in groups for maximum impact.
Daffodils
Noah’s other must-plant bulb is the daffodil, and he has a soft spot for one variety in particular.
“I absolutely love Tete-a-Tete daffodils. They’re small, simple and so jolly when everything else still feels wintry. They’re tough too - perfect for pots, borders or naturalising in lawns.”
Daffodils can be planted from early October through to the end of November, so this weekend could be one of the best and last chances to get them in the ground. Noah notes they’re excellent for beginner gardeners, “they’re forgiving and reliable, you can’t really go wrong with them.”
Crocus
If you crave one of the earliest signs that spring is coming, crocus bulbs are the way to go. “Crocuses are often the first things to pop their heads up. They bring these perfect little hits of colour at a time when you really need it.”
He suggests planting them in lawns, at the base of trees, or along pathways for a natural, meadow-style look. “They spread beautifully over time,” he adds.
Alliums
For gardeners who want something a little more architectural, Noah recommends alliums.
“I plant loads of alliums. They rise up in late spring with those amazing purple or white globes. They add height and structure to borders and look great with early perennials.”
Plant Now, Enjoy Later
Noah concludes,
“If you get bulbs in the ground now, you’re saving yourself a job come springtime. You forget all about them over winter, and then suddenly spring arrives and you’re rewarded with all this colour. It’s one of the best feelings!”
Noah’s expert gardening advice was provided by Platinum Spas, specialists in hot tubs, swim spas and mini pools.