Spring bulbs guide

Planting and caring for spring bulbs

Few sights lift the spirits after a long winter like a garden bursting with daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. Spring bulbs are among the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow, offering months of colour with very little effort. Whether you’ve got a sprawling lawn, a shady corner, or just a patio pot, bulbs can bring cheer to any space.

We’ve gathered answers to the most common questions gardeners ask us about planting and caring for spring bulbs—plus a handy planting calendar to help you plan your floral display.

When should I plant spring bulbs?

The prime time is autumn—September through November—before the ground hardens with frost. This allows bulbs to settle in and develop roots over winter. Tulips are a little different: they prefer cooler soil, so you can plant them later, even into December, if the ground is still workable.

How do I choose good bulbs?

Healthy bulbs should feel firm and heavy for their size, without soft spots, mould, or signs of shrivelling. As a rule of thumb, the bigger the bulb, the stronger the bloom.

What kind of soil do bulbs like?

Good drainage is essential. Waterlogged soil is the enemy, causing bulbs to rot. If your garden has heavy clay, lighten it with horticultural grit or compost. Raised beds and containers are great alternatives if drainage is poor.

How deep and far apart should I plant them?

Plant bulbs at a depth around two to three times their own height:

• Daffodils: 10–15cm deep
• Tulips: 15–20cm deep
• Crocuses: 5–8cm deep

Space larger bulbs 8–10cm apart, smaller ones closer together. For pots, you can pack them more snugly, as long as they don’t touch.

Sun or shade—where’s best?

Most spring bulbs thrive in sunny spots or under deciduous trees, which allow plenty of light before leaf cover thickens in late spring. Woodland bulbs, such as bluebells, naturally enjoy dappled shade.

Do they need watering?

Give bulbs a good soak right after planting. Through the winter, nature usually takes care of the rest, but in a dry spring, keep them watered during their flowering season to extend blooms.

Can I grow them in containers?

Absolutely, it’s a brilliant way to brighten patios or small spaces. Use free-draining compost, ensure the pot has holes, and try “lasagne planting.” This technique layers bulbs by flowering time: tulips at the bottom, daffodils in the middle, and crocuses near the top.

How do I care for bulbs after flowering?

Deadhead faded flowers so the plant doesn’t waste energy producing seeds. But never cut the leaves too soon, let them yellow naturally, as the foliage feeds the bulb for next year.

Should I lift bulbs or leave them in the ground?

Hardy bulbs like daffodils, crocuses, and snowdrops can happily stay in the ground, multiplying over the years. Tulips, however, often flower better if lifted once the foliage dies back, stored in a cool dry place, and replanted the following autumn.

How can I protect bulbs from pests?

Squirrels are notorious bulb thieves. A simple fix is to lay chicken wire or mesh just below the soil surface, or scatter prickly holly leaves over the planted area. Choosing less tempting bulbs—daffodils, alliums, or fritillaries—also keeps wildlife at bay.

Planting calendar

• September – Plant daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths.
• October – Continue planting daffodils and crocuses; start with alliums.
• November – Ideal month for tulips; finish planting daffodils.
• December – Late tulips can still go in, if soil is workable.

Mix early, mid, and late-flowering bulbs to create a tapestry of colour from the first crocuses in February to the last tulips in May. With just a bit of planning and care, you’ll enjoy a stunning display that returns year after year.