In the long winter months, the landscape can look lifeless and empty, so as spring approaches, here are three ways to get some colour back into your garden.
Bulb, bulbs and more bulbs
Bulbs need forward planning, as they are planted in the ground several months before they bloom. Planted dormant bulbs store energy ready for release and growth when temperatures rise. Daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses need to be planted in early autumn, lilies and alliums in October, and tulips in November.
Summer-flowering bulbs can be planted in the spring, meaning you can get away with a shorter lag time between planting and flowering. These include brightly coloured begonias, tall single-hued gladioli and delicately shaded oriental lilies.
Early blossoming flowers
Top of the list must be pansies. These vibrant all-rounders bloom early, last well and come in a fabulous range of colours. Anemones, dianthus and digitalis are vibrant choices too, and planting in containers and hanging baskets means you aren’t so limited by ground temperatures or subject to the potential damage caused by late ground frosts.
Trees that blossom in spring
A sure sign that spring has arrived, the delicate pink beauty of an ornamental cherry tree in full blossom is always a welcome sight. Magnolia’s candle-shaped flowers soon follow, as do the deep reds and oranges of the blooming quince tree. The lilac tree bursts with purple flowers and fills our gardens with fragrance. These are all specimens to consider planting for all-round colour.
With a little forward planning, spring will see you relaxing on your Outback reclining chair as your garden bursts into life and the colour returns to your garden.
