Spring-flowering bulbs are back

Spring bulbs: the recipe for a colourful summer

Spring bulbs are a wonderful way to add colour and fragrance to your garden in summer. You plant these types of bulbs in spring, and they bloom a few months later, just when your garden comes to life. Think dahlias, gladioli, and several lilies - these spring-flowering bulbs create a festive colour palette and attract bees and butterflies to your garden.

What are spring bulbs?

Spring bulbs are flower bulbs that you plant in spring, usually between March and May, depending on weather conditions. They are not hardy and should be planted when no more (night) frosts are expected. Popular examples are:

Dahlias: Known for their spectacular flowers in various shapes and colours.
Gladioli: Elegant and stately, perfect for borders.
Lilies: symbolic and graceful, available in various colours and fragrances.

Autumn flower bulbs are hardy though. You plant these in autumn and bring a floral splash to your garden in spring.

Why choose spring bulbs?

Spring bulbs offer numerous advantages:

Colourful garden: They bring an explosion of colour to your garden during the summer months.
Versatility: They are suitable for borders, pots and even flowerbeds.
Easy to plant: You really don't need to be a seasoned gardener to get started with flower bulbs. Even novice gardeners can enjoy their beauty.

Step-by-step plan: How to plant spring flower bulbs?

Planting spring flower bulbs is easy with this step-by-step plan:

Choose the right location: Find a spot with plenty of sunlight. Most spring bulbs thrive in full sun, but there are some that prefer some shade too. Make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
Prepare the soil: Remove weeds and stones. Loosen the soil with a rake or shovel. If necessary, add some compost or fertiliser for extra nutrients.
Plant the bulbs: Dig a hole that is two to three times as deep as the height of the bulb. Place the bulb tip upwards in the hole. Keep enough distance between the bulbs (usually 10-15 cm) to give them room to grow.

Tip from Marcel

Be sure to take a look at the flower bulb material page. A flower bulb planter is certainly a handy accessory. You make a hole with the right diameter and depth with it in no time.

4. Cover and water: Fill the hole with soil and press lightly. Water immediately after planting to stimulate growth.

5. Care: Keep the soil moist, but not too wet. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

Tips for successful flowering

Combine different types of bulbs for a longer flowering period. Or go for an impressive effect by planting one variety en masse? Protect the bulbs against slugs and other pests with natural means. Using a flower bulb basket protects spring bulbs from voles, among others, and you can easily dig them up at the end of the season.

With spring flower bulbs, you not only bring colour and life to your garden, but also a sense of achievement. The process of planting and watching them grow is a pleasure in itself. Start planting bulbs this spring and enjoy a colourful summer full of beautiful flowers!

Reading tip: Our flower bulb guide