If want to see your garden bursting with colour come Spring, you will need to plant certain bulbs now.
As we approach the Autumn and Winter months, keen gardeners will be bidding farewell to their summer blooms and starting to prepare their outdoor spaces for the cold weather.
Whether you're naturally green-fingered or you're putting on gardening gloves for the first time, you'll know that the key to gardening is patience and careful planning.
By planting these five bulbs and doing all the hard work now, you will reap the benefits in Spring.
What to plant from October to November?
Gardening expert and founder of the online gardening retailer, Gardeners Dream, Craig Wilson has shared five bulbs you should plant now to get a flourish of colour come springtime.
“The ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs is in the autumn, from September to November," according to Craig.
The gardening expert continued: "The key is to get them in the ground before the first hard frost so that they have time to establish roots.
"The soil should be cool but not frozen - this gives the bulbs a chance to settle in before winter sets in.
"Don’t worry too much about frosts; the soil acts as a natural insulator, protecting the bulbs during the colder months.
"While bulbs are generally frost-hardy, you can add frost fleece, or an extra layer of mulch or straw over the planting area to provide additional insulation against harsh frosts.”
Daffodils
We all know Daffodils as bright and cheerful flowers which bring a burst of yellow to any spring garden.
Craig recommends planting daffodil bulbs about 10-15cm deep and 10cm apart in well-drained soil since they thrive in full sun to partial shade.
He added: "After planting, give them a good drink to help them settle, but avoid overwatering as they don’t like soggy conditions.”
Tulips
“Tulips offer a wide range of vibrant colours, perfect for a stunning spring display," according to Craig.
The green-fingered pro recommended that Tulip bulbs go in the ground about 20cm deep and 10cm apart.
He continued: "They prefer light, well-drained soil and lots of sun. Water them well after planting, but ensure the soil stays on the drier side to prevent rot.”
Crocuses
The gardening expert has advised that crocuses are early bloomers which can add a pop of colour to your garden just as winter fades.
Craig suggests planting crocus bulbs 5cm deep and spacing them 5-8cm apart.
The pro went on to say: "They do best in well-drained soil. They’re happy in full sun to partial shade, and the key to success is keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.”
Snowdrops
"Delicate and charming" Snowdrops are often the first sign of spring, Craig points out.
To get the most out of your Snowdrops, the expert says they need to be planted about 5cm deep and 5-10cm apart.
He continued: "They prefer rich, well-drained soil and do well in partial to full shade. Water them well after planting, then occasionally until they’ve settled in.”
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Alliums
The fifth bulb you should be planting now is Alliums since they "add architectural interest with their striking, globe-shaped flowers," Craig explained.
The expert added: "Allium bulbs should be planted 10cm deep and spaced about 15cm apart in well-drained soil.
"They thrive in full sun. After planting, give them a drink, but once they’re established, they don’t need much watering.”
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