Planting spring flowering bulbs

I love the seasonal ritual of planting spring flowering bulbs. It’s one of those gardening tasks that brings a sense of anticipation—tucking bulbs into the soil now and waiting for their fresh green shoots and vibrant blooms to emerge after winter. This year, it’s even more special for me, as I moved house and garden earlier in the year. These are the first new bulbs to be planted in my fresh space, marking the beginning of what I hope will become a thriving, beautifully designed garden.

I’m fortunate that the soil here is wonderfully friable and free-draining, making it ideal for bulbs. However, I always take the extra precaution of adding horticultural grit to the bottom of the planting hole. This ensures the bulbs have the best possible drainage, reducing the risk of rot before they can establish and push up through the soil in spring. If you’re working with heavier, clay-based soil, this step is even more crucial. Bulbs dislike sitting in wet, compacted ground, so incorporating grit into the planting hole helps create the perfect growing conditions.

Planting in clusters is another key tip—it not only looks more natural but also allows the bulbs to support each other as they grow. Strategically placing them among long-term perennials enhances the overall composition of the garden, creating stunning seasonal highlights.

Today, I’m planting the majestic Allium stipitatum ‘Mount Everest,’ a striking white allium that brings height, structure, and elegance to the garden. Its tall, pure white flower heads stand out beautifully against green foliage and other late-spring perennials.

Want to learn more about this stunning variety and how to care for it? Find all the details here: ‘https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/243759/allium-stipitatum-mount-everest/details

Happy gardening!