BBC Gardeners' World Autumn Gardening Guide 2025

A GUIDE TO SPRING-FLOWERING BULBS

A general rule: plant bulbs at a depth of two to three times their height. Here’s a quick guide: How deep should you plant bulbs? Containers – Great for patios and small spaces. Lawns – Naturalise bulbs like crocuses and daffodils for a meadow-like effect. Under trees and shrubs – Many bulbs thrive in dappled shade.

There’s a bulb for every garden style and space. Here are a few favourites to get you started: Daffodils ( Narcissus ) Cheerful and reliable, they’re perfect for borders, containers, or naturalising in grass. Tulips Available in a dazzling array of colours and shapes. Best planted later in autumn to avoid fungal diseases. Crocuses Early bloomers that bring a splash of colour to lawns and rockeries. Hyacinths Known for their strong fragrance and dense flower spikes. Snowdrops ( Galanthus ) Delicate white flowers that often bloom as early as January. Where to plant Spring bulbs are incredibly versatile. You can plant them in: Borders – Mix them among perennials for a layered look. Spring-flowering bulbs are one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to add a burst of colour after winter. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, bulbs bring life, structure and joy to your garden come spring. Why plant bulbs in autumn? Spring bulbs need a period of cold dormancy to trigger flowering. Planting them in autumn, ideally between September and November, gives them time to establish roots before the winter weather sets in. Choosing the right bulbs

Bulb Type

Planting Depth

Daffodils

10–15cm

Tulips

15–20cm

Crocuses

5–8cm

Hyacinths

10–15cm

Snowdrops

5–8cm

Tip : Make sure the soil is well-drained. Bulbs hate sitting in waterlogged ground, which can cause them to rot.

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