As the days get cooler and the green starts to fade from leaves and lawn, we become aware that autumn is upon us. Make the most of the cooler weather to get organised for spring.
Depending on how long the warmth of summer lingers, you can generally plant your winter bulbs in mid to late April. Bulbs are the easiest of plants to grow. They are very seasonal and in most cases are quick to flower and die down, but nothing can compare with the delight of these charmers when they pop their heads out in spring.
The types of bulbs you should consider for planting are Daffodils, Alliums, Hyacinths, Tulips, Ipheion, and Muscari. When planting bulbs, it is always a good idea to combine with a ground cover to provide a long-lasting display when the bulbs die down.
The key to successful planting is cool temperatures and moisture. If you plant bulbs too early, they may decompose due to conditions not conducive to growth. The location of the bulbs is also very important, most bulbs like the sun (not the heat) for at least 3 to 4 hours of the day - bear in mind the midday sun would not be ideal. Bulbs also like the soil to be fairly rich. Dig the bed over to about the depth of a spade and add a generous amount of compost. Do not use fresh manure as this can burn the bulbs. The key factor when planting bulbs is water. The roots need to be kept moist from the day after planting, so it’s a good time to look at installing a sprinkler system. They will need watering for about an hour every 4 to 5 days. If you are planting bulbs in a container, you can use a moisture meter to check the moisture level of the soil.
Daffodils (Narcissus) are probably the most popular choice of all bulbs and to many they herald the arrival of spring beautifully. There are many species and cultivars of Narcissus and experts will divide them into eleven different groups depending on the form and size of the flowers. The most popular daffodil is the bright yellow trumpet-shaped bloom, but there are many white, cream and pink cultivars, many of which have a wonderful perfume. Plant them in groups of 10 or more - daffodils look best when seen in groups.
Hyacinth (hyacinthus orientalis) are sweet smelling favourites in the garden or in containers. Also very good choice for growing indoors. When planting, plant among other plants which will give them some support. Plant in groups of same colour. Flower stems may be from 20cm to 30 cm high and the colour range includes various shades of pink, blue, rose, white and yellow. Hyacinth does not like heavy shade but also not midday sun. Plant bulbs 10cm deep and 12cm apart.
Alliums (Allium Neapolitanum) come in a large variety of species, including our everyday onions, garlic and chives as well ornamental plants. Florist allium can be planted as part of your rock garden or as a border. It looks great planted in groups but can be planted in containers. Florist allium prefers a slightly shaded spot and well-drained soil. Bulbs will thrive if watered regularly and deeply from planting onwards. Space the bulbs 4cm apart and cover with 3cm of soil.
Ipheion are easy to grow and produce masses of dainty sky blue, star-shaped blooms. They are very adaptable. The small bulbs may be planted in virtually any kind of soil, as long as it is loosened and kept reasonably well watered in winter and spring. They can also be grown in pots with great success. Plant the bulbs just a few centimetres below soil level and about 5 - 10 centimetres apart. Ipheion are quite frost-hardy and drought resistant, although they will respond favourably to good watering. Apart from regular watering in winter and spring, these plants need no attention.
There is nothing as spectacular as a bed of breathtaking tulips. Tall and stately, tulips make excellent bedding plants and also do well in containers and pots. Tulips come in a wide range of colours with many different species. The best time to plant untreated tulip bulbs is in the last week of April or the first week of May. Planting either before or after this will result in shorter stems. Occasionally mulch with peat or old compost to keep roots cool and help to retain moisture.
Other tasks to tackle in April
Get your garden in shape with some low-maintenance tasks.
Trim all your hedges and clean up underneath, particularly in winter rainfall areas.
Clean away all weeds and overgrown plants from below your trees and around them.
Potted plants may need planting into larger pots.
Lawns should be fed with fertilizer and watered in well - you may need to raise your lawnmower blades slightly.
Take out any spent vegetables. Dig and prepare the soil with fertilizer for the next crop.
If you are planning on planting seedlings, give them a good start by using compost and superphosphates and give a generous watering to improve the texture of the soil. Plant in the cool of early evening and water with a fine spray.
Save all your raked up leaves for the compost heap. If you don’t have one, this is a good time to start a compost heap.
Visit your local garden centre for good advice and the right equipment.
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