With the leaves turning golden with autumn, astute UK gardeners know that this is the time of the year to think ahead about Spring. September is the ideal season to plant bulbs like tulips and daffodils, even hyacinths. Not only will they brighten a few gardens with vibrant hues, but the temperamental British weather will not hurt the color of the blooms when the warmer months return.
Here's why these three flowers deserve a spot in your garden and how to make the most of this planting season.
Tulips: The Ultimate Showstoppers
The quintessential spring flower with such a great variety of colors and shapes, tulips have long been an early favorite for those planting flowers in Spring. However, while the experts recommend planting these in October or November, the Met Office has noted that regions with milder autumns have been planting tulip bulbs as early as late September.
To achieve good flowering, tulip bulbs should be planted in well-draining soils at a depth of around 20 cm with the pointed side up. They do well under full sun and constant moisture during the growing season. Use layering of tulips with hyacinths in flower beds or pots for incredibly beautiful multi-layered floral.
Daffodils: Harbingers of Spring
Daffodils are cheerful heralds of Spring, and anyone also needs these bulbs for planting in autumn. Their golden shades bring life to gardens just as winter fades. Experts advise planting early in September. They take more time to root stronger before frozen winter sets in.
Daffodils are a low-maintenance and excellent first step. Plant in clusters for a naturalistic dragoon, and throw in some hyacinths to add that fragrance to your garden. Although they can tolerate partial shade, sunny spots tend to work better. Rich, slightly acidic soils make them happy.
Hyacinths: Fragrance and Color in One
Hyacinths are very popular for their heavy scent and bright colors and are among UK gardeners' favorites. The Met Office considers planting hyacinths one of the top choices for September since they are very hardy in cooler autumn soil and have showy flowers that come in early, belling both scents and beauty in and out of the garden.
Hyacinths prefer full sunlight with inorganic, well-draining soils. The holes for the bulbs should be 15-20 cm deep and the same distance apart to maintain good air circulation. In pots indoors, they can be forced for Christmas blooms by keeping them cool and dark during the first ten weeks.
Why September
When planting your bulbs in September, before the first frosts set in, they will develop an excellent root system into autumn. That head start in life is important to them to ensure they bloom well and healthily come Spring. As the Met Office explained, early planting also helps protect the bulbs against volatile weather patterns, which will, therefore, give them stability to allow them to thrive.
By planting tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in your garden this fall, you'll enjoy a riot of color and fragrance next spring. Whether you're a beginning gardener or a seasoned green thumb, these three flowers are sure to update your garden.