Spring Planting
Spring Bulb Planting
Time to start thinking spring bulb planting.
- Choose an open, sunny spot with good drainage. Bulbs need sunshine for at least half a day.
- Enrich the soil first with a combination of Daltons Premium Bulb Mix and Garden Time Compost to enhance its structure and fertility.
- Plant bulbs in clumps or groups for a more natural, colourful display. Read our guide to learn about how deep to plant them.
- Mark the area carefully to avoid accidental disturbance later.
Bulbs to plant later this month include:
Anemones, Babiana, Crocuses, Freesias, Hyacinths, Irises, Jonquils, Lachenalias, Nerines, Ranunculi, Tulips, and Watsonias.
Read our How to Grow Bulbs Guide for more expert advice.
Flower Garden Care
- Many summer favourites like zinnias and petunias are nearing the end of their flowering. Deadhead (remove finished flowers) regularly and remove yellowing or damaged leaves to promote new growth.
- Support taller plants like delphiniums or hollyhocks with stakes or frames to protect them from summer winds.
What to Plant
Alyssum, arctotis, calendulas, cosmos, impatiens, marigolds, nemesia, poppies, snapdragons, stock, sweet william, violas, and wallflowers.
Tips for Planting Success
- As with the veggie garden, prepare the soil before planting. Loosen the soil and mix in compost to give your plants a strong start.
- Make sure new plants are thoroughly watered and continue to keep the soil moist as they establish.
- Add a fresh layer of mulch around your new plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and help prevent wilting.
Rose Care
Its’ a tough month for roses so it’s essential to keep them mulched and well-watered.
- Regularly check for pests (aphids etc) and diseases (typically rust or blackspot). Treat any issues immediately - see our Roses Guide for advice.
- Keep removing finished blooms and give light summer prune to stimulate new growth for a second flush of flowers later in the month, continuing into early autumn.