Spring is in the air - and the daffodils are flowering
It’s a bit exciting for gardeners when spring begins to stir. You can feel it before you see it—mornings are lighter, there are more sunny days when the air no longer feels as though it’s been transported from the snowfields and the breeze is softer – and ‘springier’. After a few months of grey and chill, the world seems to be taking a big deep breath, getting ready to be cheerful again.
One of the first signs of cheeriness is when the quiet winter garden suddenly becomes alive with the first of the spring bulbs. Snowdrops are often the first brave souls to appear as they don’t appear to be the least bit phased by the frozen ground. Then come the crocuses – the little snow crocuses first (also don’t mind the cold – I guess the name is a give-away) and later the larger flowering and more colourful giant crocus. Next come the really cheerful and bright jonquils and daffodils – which are usually around just now in the last weeks of winter. (Although there are always the rule- breakers – I even had a couple of confused jonquils flower in our unseasonably warm late autumn!) The best part about spring bulbs is that they don’t strut their colours all at the same time. When the season finally gets underway there is still plenty of colour coming up – tulips, hyacinths, dutch irises, freesias – the list is endless.
How to experience this colourful seasonal treat? Growing bulbs is pretty simple, but proper care and timing will ensure the best healthy and prolific display. Most spring bulbs are planted in autumn (March to May), depending on your climate zone. Our chilly nights in northern Victoria offer premium soil conditions for spring-flowering bulbs. They should be in a sunny locations with well-drained soil – they dislike soggy ground, which can lead to rot. Drainage can be improved by mixing compost or sand into the soil. Plant bulbs at the correct depth — usually two to three times their height — and space them according to the type. Pointy ends should face up.
Water well after planting, then reduce watering until shoots appear. Once growth begins in late winter or early spring, they should be watered (if no rain) but avoid over-watering. Applying a balanced fertiliser when shoots appear can boost blooms and support bulb development for the following year.
After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally – that’s the one downside! They can certainly be a bit untidy, especially as they get past their prime and flop all over the other plants. But the leaves feed the bulb and prepare it for the next season so they shouldn’t be cut off prematurely. Once yellow and limp, they can be removed.
Many bulbs (especially jonquils and daffodils) can remain in the ground year-round. Alternatively, dig them up and store in a cool, dry place after the foliage dies down. With the right care, most spring bulbs will reward you with cheerful blooms and return for years to come.
