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13 July 2009
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Tulipa 'Hermitage'

Plant spring bulbs

Plan your spring display of colourful bulbs and follow our guide to getting the best results.

What to do

  • When buying bulbs check they are healthy and as fresh as possible.
  • Plant the same variety either singly or packed closely together to make a big show.
  • As a general rule, plant bulbs two to three times their own depth and around two bulb widths apart.
  • To achieve a natural look, throw bulbs up in the air and plant them exactly where they land in the grass.
  • Replace the soil after planting, breaking down any large clumps and firm in gently, making sure there are no air spaces around the bulbs.
  • When growing bulbs in pots, choose a container that is the right size and fill pots with general-purpose compost, mixed with a handful of horticultural grit to improve drainage.
  • Water well and cover with a piece of chicken wire to prevent squirrels, mice and voles from digging them out.

  • Read More...

Time needed


30 minutes per square metre (approx.)

You will need

  • Bulbs
  • General-purpose compost
  • Trowel
  • Horticultural grit for drainage
  • Watering can
  • Chicken wire

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Elsewhere on bbc.co.uk

Gardeners' Question Time
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Elsewhere on the web

The Royal Horticultural Society
National Gardens Scheme
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