‘Easiest way’ to get your garden ‘blooming’ next spring – what to plant now

Gardening expert teaches This Morning viewers about orchids

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

There are many jobs to keep on top of during the winter months such as protecting tender plants and maintaining the lawn. When it comes to sowing, experts at Phostrogen have recommended planting bulbs before the frost arrives.

The experts shared what gardeners should be planting now to get their garden “blooming” next spring.

They said: “While many of us have said goodbye to spending time outdoors until next year, there are still plenty of jobs to be done to make sure our beloved gardens are looking bright and beautiful come springtime.

“One of the easiest ways to ensure your beds and borders are blooming throughout spring and summer is to plant winter bulbs now. 

“Generally, it’s recommended to plant bulbs before the frosts arrive if you are planting directly into the ground, but you have a little more time if planting into containers and pots.”

Most bulbs can withstand the cold once they’re in the ground.

The experts added: “Tulips, daffodils and snowdrops are popular options to provide a year-round floral display, and can be layered in beds or pots, called lasagne planting, to ensure there are flowers blooming throughout the year. 

“If you’re opting for potted displays, use a multi-purpose compost and include some stones or ceramic pieces at the bottom of the container for added drainage. 

“Plant approximately one bulbs’ width apart in layers, starting with the largest bulbs at the bottom and the smallest on top. 

DON’T MISS:
Snake plants: Take ‘extra precautions’ in winter [EXPERT]
Home improvements that could add thousands to your property price [COMMENT]
‘Important’ questions homebuyers forget to ask estate agents [INSIGHT]

“Once you’ve planted your winter bulbs, ensure you place some protective wire or mesh over the area to avoid bulbs being dug up by pesky garden visitors like squirrels. 

“When it comes to planting bulbs in borders and beds, you can afford to space them out a little more, typically in clusters for an attractive display. 

“Typically, you should aim to plant them three times as deep as their height. 

“Then simply cover with soil and firm them in with your hands.”

Phostrogen experts also shared how gardeners can take simple steps to protect their plants from the frost.

According to the experts, some tender plants can be killed “overnight”, while some can survive a few frosts.

However, with the temperatures dropping in the UK, it is recommended to try to protect plants from the cold weather.

The experts said: “If you have tender plant species such as dahlias, fuchsia and begonias, it is widely recommended to move them indoors if possible to a cool, frost-free area like a porch, conservatory or greenhouse throughout the winter.

Looking for a new home, or just fancy a look? Add your postcode below or visit InYourArea

“Of course, that may not be possible for well-established plants, so instead provide insulation by wrapping a few layers of fleece or bubble wrap around the container itself.

“Raise pots off the ground where possible to avoid taking on the cold temperature of the ground.

“You can also wrap plants in materials like hessian and polystyrene to insulate and protect them from the elements.

“Just make sure they are finished with a waterproof covering to avoid water getting underneath the wrap, as this can cause the frost to set in.

“Heavily mulching around the roots of the plant is another great option for plants in the ground.

“Use compost, bark chipping or any organic materials to prevent the ground from freezing over and damaging root systems.”

Source: Read Full Article