Spring is on its way and this is a very exciting time, especially for gardeners who have been itching to get outside and start planting. As someone who works in a garden centre, it’s safe to say the majority of people who are gardening tend to buy plants that have already been potted up, even if they haven’t bloomed yet. However, I think we sometimes forget about buying bulbs and bareroots because it is a slower process although bulbs really allow us to watch the whole lifecycle of a plant.
Bulbs and bareroots may not be the right choice if you’re looking for more of an instant garden that you can enjoy right away. Although, some gardeners find joy in watching a plant develop fully from its bulb even if it can take a full year or so. If you choose to plant bulbs or bareroots this year they will still produce a small plant, but it will establish its roots over the year and will be a fuller, more lush plant for the spring or summer of 2021! Another great thing about bulbs is that it is a very cost-effective way of gardening, while still getting the quality you would from an already established plant.
If you’re planning on purchasing bulbs or bareroots this year we are just starting to get them in! We currently have a few varieties of Crocosmia, Peony, Hosta, and Lilies! These are tried and true that gardeners love not only because of their beauty but because of their reliability.
Lilies:
Lilies are great because they are hardy and easy to grow plants that come in so many varieties. They are very vibrant and can be fragrant if you’re looking for an extra bonus. They are an earlier blooming bulb so be sure to deadhead them throughout so more energy can go into establishing roots instead of seed. The general rule is that one starter bulb will produce one flower stock. We suggest you plant 3-5 in a group, so it comes up as a fuller looking plant!
Crocosmia:
Crocosmias are a more exotic looking plant. Their vibrant red, orange, and yellow flowers attract many pollinators and hummingbirds to your garden! Once established, these guys grow very tall and quickly, but are super easy to divide and spread throughout your yard. Similar to the lily bulbs, we suggest you plant 5-10 in a group for a fuller plant.
Peony:
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Peonies are a garden staple. They are so hardy and easy to care for, so they are appealing to many gardeners! These fragrant flowers add beautiful lush foliage to your garden even when the flowers aren’t blooming. They also make for great cut flowers in your home. If you’re lucky enough, peonies have been known to bloom for up to 100 years! This plant is a lifelong friend.
Hostas:
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Hostas are another common plant seen in gardens. There are so many varieties it’s hard to keep track! They are well known for their attractive green, golden, blue or 2 toned variegated foliage! In addition, hosta’s can also produce pink, lavender or white fragrant flowers in the summer. These plants are really hardy and add great texture and colour to a shady area!
The great thing about planting perennial bulbs at this stage is that you get to watch them as they grow and feel as though you did it all on your own. It’s a great way to get more comfortable with gardening and have something to look forward to seeing every year!