Gardeners will often find these plants ready-grown and in full bloom at garden centres during summer, but this is the most expensive way to buy them. With a small amount of early planning, gardeners can easily grow them themselves, setting their garden up to be a colourful oasis at a fraction of the price. Shannen Godwin, a gardening expert at JParker’s, has shared which bulbs should be planted in March.
She said: “With spring fast approaching, it’s finally coming up to the time when we can start to enjoy getting out in the garden again. With daffodils now starting to show their cheery faces, we can enjoy the beauty of spring and start prepping the garden for summer.”
Bulbs to plant in March
1. Lilies
Lilies are one of the best summer bulbs to grow for fragrance and for use as cut flowers.
Shannen claimed that they produce “large, showy and exotic blooms throughout summer months”.
Producing very large, exquisite flowers repeatedly throughout summer that also attract bees, it’s no wonder they’re so popular.
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The expert advised: “These easy to grow bulbs can be planted up until May and will naturalise annually for continued pleasure. They’re great for cutting and displaying in vases too – a cost effective way of having bouquets that you grow yourself.”
Some of the best types of lilies to grow in gardens are dwarf lilies, asiatic lilies and trumpet lilies.
2. Begonias
Best grown in pots and hanging baskets, these plants are among the most popular summer flowers in British gardens.
Shannen claimed: “They’re easy to plant and grow and these vibrant beauties will look sensational anywhere in the garden.
“Especially in containers and hanging baskets – although they’ll look good in a flower bed too.”
As with all container plants, they need regular watering throughout summer. Once the flowers have faded, dig up the tubers and store for winter in a dry, frost-free place ready to plant again the following spring.
Some of the best types of begonias to grow in gardens are cascading begonias, non-stop begonias and fancy frills begonias.
3. Gladioli
Producing tall stems packed with large, bright ruffled blooms, gladioli make a big impact in the border. They’re also fantastic as cut flowers.
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Due to their production of “traditional and well-loved summer blooms”, the expert noted that they are “must-haves” for any cottage themed garden or a simple summer display.
Shannen said: “Their tall stems and bursts of colour make them a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. They also make a beautiful cut flower for your favourite vase.”
Some of the best types of gladioli to grow in gardens are dwarf flowering gladioli and large flowering gladioli.
4. Ranunculus
Ranunculus flowers look almost too perfect to be real. Their rose-like blossoms have tissue-thin petals and they come in colours that range from cream and pale yellow to apricot, pink, orange, red and burgundy.
As one of the earliest bulbs to grow in pots, the expert suggested growing ranunculus as they are known for their “amazing blooms”.
5. Roses
Roses are one of the nation’s most popular plants and are regularly voted Britain’s favourite flower.
According to the expert, bare rooted roses can still be planted from now until May. This is because they’re best grown while they’re dormant throughout winter, as long as the ground isn’t frozen.
Shannen said: “These much-loved flowers add ornamental value to the garden and make stunning cut flowers. They’re also perfect for cottage gardens, informal gardens, summer displays, or any display for that matter.”
