Gardeners are being told there’s one plant they need to ‘get in the ground now’ because any delay will mean flower beds will look very empty com the spring. Planting season runs from September through November, which means now is the perfect time to get bulbs in the ground before the cooler, wet weather sets in.
Eflorist’s flower expert with over 35 years of experience, David Denyer, has shared his top advice on when and how to plant daffodils for the best results, along with practical tips to help create stronger displays and healthier blooms.
He explained that people need to take action now because of soil conditions: ”“The best time to plant daffodil bulbs is from September through November, while the soil still holds some warmth but before it becomes too wet in winter. This allows the bulbs to put down strong roots, which is what leads to healthy growth and spring flowers.
“If you wait until late winter, your bulbs may not establish properly, which can result in small or missing blooms.”
In terms of where to plant them in the garden he said: “Choose a sunny or lightly shaded spot with soil that drains well. If your soil is heavy clay, add grit or plant your bulbs in raised beds and pots to prevent rot. In sandy soil, mix in some compost to help the ground hold onto moisture.
“Bulbs should be planted around three times their own depth, usually 10 to 15 cm, and spaced about 7 to 10 cm apart. Place them with the pointed tip facing upwards, as this is where the shoots will emerge from. If your bulbs are planted too shallowly, they can become unstable and are more likely to topple once they flower.”
On how to look after daffodils after planting:
“Once your bulbs are in the ground, give them a thorough watering to help the soil settle around them and encourage root growth. After that, they can usually be left alone through the winter, as rainfall should provide enough moisture.
“It’s a good idea to mark where you have planted your bulbs, with something like a label or a decorative rock, so you don’t accidentally disturb them when the soil looks bare.
“Bulbs already contain all the energy they need to flower, so you don’t need to feed them at planting. Just make sure the soil stays free-draining over winter, and if you’re using a container, keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become waterlogged.”
Top tips
Kris Collins of Thompson & Morgan says: “Most spring-flowering bulbs thrive in any light level from full sun to partial shade, avoiding only the extremes of deep shade and intense, dry heat.
“Ideally, choose a spot where bulbs get at least half a day’s sun in spring. Plant in free-draining soil and feed after flowering to store energy for next year’s display. For containers there are specialist bulb composts and additives like Empathy Bulb Starter for pots and borders.”
Collins suggests:
1. Always try a new variety – add to your spring collection each year.
2. Perhaps plant in pots the first year – once you fall in love with a particular variety you can add to borders.
3. For a naturalistic look to planting displays, throw your bulbs by the handful, gently into the air and plant them where they land.
4. For a more formal look, draw out a border plan and mark each planting space with a thin line of sand. Plant the bulbs at equal spacing as recommended by variety.
