What flowers to pick for containers

This question was asked by
Linda D – 

I’m a novice on bulbs. I’m after a variety of bulbs that will flower from spring till autumn and give a glorious burst of colour. Different heights so I can make a display that will ‘wow’. Suggestions of what size pot for number of bulbs and which is the best compost and feed etc.

Thanks very much.

Linda

Hi Linda

You have so many different flowers to choose from it really depends on the height, colour and variety you would like. Also, to have flowers all year through, you need to plant them at different times of the year.

On our website, our products are broken down into Autumn Planted Bulbs and Spring Planted Bulbs. You can then search by the flowering months as well so you can have something in flower all year through. For planting in pots, a good-quality, multi-purpose (peat-free) compost will do the trick for most varieties. You can then add a slow release fertiliser (link below) to help them on their way. You can also add horticultural grit to your compost and pots for good drainage. The main rule to planting in pots is to ensure there are drainage holes in your pots or your bulbs will rot.

Slow Release Fertiliser – Easy Feed Pack (SKU18119)

To get full and luscious pots full of flowers, we recommend layering your bulbs like making a lasagne. The Dutch call this a bulb lasagne. Simply plant your bulbs deeper to start with, with the largest or latest flowering bulbs further down, moving to the smallest and earliest flowering on the top layer. The shoots from the lower bulbs will find their way around the other bulbs. The first layer can go as deep as 28-30cm (11-12″), then cover them over with 5cm (2″) of compost, before you place the next layer of bulbs.

Bulb Lasagne

Bulb Lasagne

AUTUMN PLANTED BULBS

SPRING PLANTED BULBS

The Hart Family