Planting Guide
General Planting Advice
Most bulbs are remarkably easy to grow and will reward you year after year when planted in suitable conditions.
As a general rule, bulbs perform best when planted in conditions that resemble their natural habitat—whether that means woodland shade, damp meadow, open grassland, or a sunny border.
Always unpack bulbs and plants promptly on arrival and plant as soon as possible where practical.
When to Plant
Most autumn-planted bulbs should be planted between September and December, while the soil remains workable.
Freshly lifted or moisture-sensitive bulbs, such as snowdrops, bluebells, wood anemones, and certain native species, are often best planted as soon as possible after arrival.
Spring and summer-flowering plants may have different planting times, which will be indicated on the relevant product pages.
How Deep Should I Plant?
A useful general rule is to plant bulbs at approximately two to three times their own depth.
Examples:
- Small bulbs such as crocus: around 5–8cm deep
- Daffodils and tulips: around 10–15cm deep
- Larger ornamental alliums: 15–20cm deep
Rhizomes (such as wood anemones) should be planted much more shallowly, usually just below the surface.
If in doubt, product descriptions will often offer specific guidance.
Soil & Position
Different plants have different preferences, but some general principles apply:
Woodland and native species
Often prefer moisture-retentive soil, light shade, and leaf-rich conditions.
Naturalising bulbs
Usually do best in reasonably undisturbed areas where they can settle and multiply over time.
Sunny border bulbs
Prefer well-drained soil and a brighter position.
Heavy clay is not necessarily a problem for many native species, provided drainage is not permanently poor.
Naturalising Bulbs
Many of our bulbs are particularly suited to naturalising.
To encourage this:
- Avoid disturbing bulbs once planted
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering
- Avoid mowing grassy areas too early
- Plant in drifts or informal groups for the most natural effect
Patience is often rewarded—many naturalising bulbs improve beautifully over time.
Bare-Root Plants
Bare-root plants should be unpacked immediately on arrival.
If you cannot plant them straight away:
- temporarily heel them into soil or compost
- or pot them until permanent planting is possible
Do not allow roots to dry out.
Aftercare
Water newly planted bulbs and plants if conditions are dry.
Once established, many species require relatively little intervention.
Avoid removing foliage immediately after flowering—this allows the bulb to replenish energy for the following year.
A Note on Living Plants
Bulbs and plants are living things, and their success depends on soil, weather, planting conditions, and aftercare.
If you are unsure about suitability for your particular garden, we are always happy to help.
