When should you plant autumn bulbs?

The best planting time varies according to the bulb.

As a general guide, September to December is the main autumn planting season, but some bulbs are better planted earlier and others later.

As a general rule, narcissus benefit from being planted early in autumn, whilst tulips should be planted later, but within reason any time between September and early December is fine.

At RV Roger, autumn bulbs are supplied for planting from September onwards, allowing gardeners to plan a succession of flowering from the earliest crocus through to late-flowering tulips and alliums.

Can bulbs be planted late?

Yes, provided the bulbs remain firm and healthy and the ground is workable. It is better to plant healthy bulbs late than leave them sitting unplanted for months. However, bulbs that are planted considerably later than recommended may flower less reliably in their first season.

Avoid planting when the soil is frozen or waterlogged.

How deep should autumn bulbs be planted?

As a general rule, most bulbs should be planted at a depth of approximately two to three times their own height, although exact requirements vary by species and variety.

As a broad principle:

• Small crocus bulbs are planted relatively shallowly.
• Narcissus require deeper planting.
• Hyacinths are planted at a moderate depth.
• Tulips are planted relatively deeply.
• Alliums also benefit from being planted sufficiently deeply to anchor their tall stems.

The bulb should be planted with its growing point facing upwards.

What soil do autumn bulbs need?

Most autumn-planted bulbs prefer free-draining soil. Poor drainage is one of the biggest risks because bulbs can rot if they remain in saturated conditions. Improve heavy soil by incorporating organic matter and, where appropriate, improving drainage before planting.

For particularly wet gardens, consider:

• Raised beds
• Raised planting areas
• Containers
• Better-draining sections of the garden

Most bulbs prefer a warm, sunny position with free-draining soil, although there are bulbs such as wood anemones and cyclamen which are adapted to shade.

Autumn bulb planting checklist

Before planting:

• Choose healthy, firm bulbs.
• Check the recommended planting period.
• Select a suitable location.
• Check soil drainage.
• Prepare the ground before planting.
• Plant at the recommended depth.
• Plant bulbs with the growing point upwards.
• Plant in groups or drifts for greater impact.
• Combine early, mid-season and late-flowering varieties.
• Consider mature height and spread.
• Water after planting if conditions are dry.
• Protect containers from squirrels where necessary.
• Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.