Gardening expert Fiona Jenkins has shared the five flower bulbs you can plant in January and February to give your garden a head start and ensure it’s booming in spring
As the UK is gripped by the icy winter weather an expert has offered some green-fingered wisdom on how to get the garden blooming again come spring.
Fiona Jenkins from MyJobQuote.co.uk said: “If you’re looking to plant some bulbs now and get a head start on your gardening, it’s important to know what you can and can’t plant in winter.”
She warned that “Some bulbs simply won’t be able to stand the harsh weather conditions that winter brings, and they won’t be able to bloom. Knowing which bulbs you can plant now will help to ensure that your garden is thriving in spring.” For those with an affinity for beauty in their backyard, the expert suggests lilies as a robust choice that can be planted any time from autumn through spring.
They require nutrient-rich, well-draining soil and lots of sunlight, thriving best when buried 15cm to 20cm deep, she advises. For less ideal soils, Fiona tips off: “If the soil in your garden is heavy or doesn’t drain well, you could plant lily bulbs in a pot or container and create a lovely potted display that you can place on your patio. Potted bulbs can later be planted in borders once they’re established.”
Turning her attention to Liatris, Fiona describes this tough herbaceous perennial from North America as great for inviting wildlife such as butterflies and bees into gardens, hinting at their contribution to biodiversity, reports the Express.
According to her advice, “The bulbs produce large blooms, which eventually form a clump and can then later be divided in spring.” She recommends planting these bulbs in well-drained soil and in a bright spot, ideally about 5cm deep.
As for tulips, Fiona marked them as another favourable option for planting during the cold months. Tulips are typically planted in the autumn, but according to gardening expert Fiona, they can still flourish if planted now.
These blooms require well-draining soil and a sunny spot in your garden, ready to burst into colour come April or May. Daffodils, Fiona explains, are ideally planted in the autumn, but can still be successfully planted in January and February for a stunning spring display.
“Loosen the soil where possible and scatter some fertiliser before placing the bulbs on top of the soil. Avoid pushing them in the soil, as this could damage the bulb.”
Once the bulbs are nestled in, cover with roughly two to four inches of mulch or finished compost. Regularly refreshing the mulch covering will give your daffodils the best chance of blooming. Eucomis bulbs are usually planted in the spring, but it’s not too early to get them started in pots and containers.
They should be planted around 15cm deep for a “gorgeous summer display”. The expert added: “Alternatively, they can be planted out on a border once they’re actively growing. However, you should only do this after the last frost.”