The bulbs should be grown in fertile, humus-rich soil that does not dry out in summer. Plant 7cm (3 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart in full sun or partial shade. Flowers late winter to early spring. Divide overcrowded clumps in the autumn.
Adoni
Height 30cm (12 inches)
Japanese wild flowers, here in unusual forms. Plant the bareroots just below the surface, 30cm (12 inches) apart, into moist, neutral to acidic soil, which has had plenty of well rotted compost or manure incorporated. Provide a cool position in full shade. Avoid disturbing plants once they are established. Flowers late winter to spring.
Alliums (Ornamental Garlic)
Height range 25-100cm (10-40 inches) (depending on variety)
Plant the bulbs approximately 20cm (8 inches) deep in any moderately fertile, well-drained soil. The smaller varieties can be closely planted for impact, however allow at least 20cm (8 inches) for larger bulbs. The leaves should be allowed to die back and not removed until completely brown. Lift and divide overcrowded clumps in late summer. Prefers full sun or partial shade. Most Alliums flower from late spring to late summer and are perfect for flower arrangements.
Anemone Blanda, De Caen, St. Brigid & Nemorosa Cultivars
Height range 10-30cm (4-12 inches) (depending on variety)
The shorter lived poppy flowered types are a favourite for flower arrangers (Remember, cut the flowers do not pull them). Both types prefer a warm, well-drained, humus rich soil in sun or partial shade. De Caen types will arrive as tubers, soak them in water overnight before planting 5cm (2 inches) deep, 10cm (4 inches) apart. Anemone blanda and nemorosa types are suitable in areas of dappled shade and are often sold as potted plants. Water well before planting out 23cm (9 inches) apart or if corms, plant as soon as received.
Arisaema triphyllum (Jack in the Pulpit)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
Plant tubers 15cm (6 inches) deep, 15cm (6 inches) apart in moist, humus-rich, neutral to acid, well-drained soil. Prefers a cool position in partial shade. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly when in growth. Mulch with bracken or fresh compost for the winter months. During dormant periods, keep tubers just moist but never allow to dry out completely. Flowers spring to early summer.
Arum italicum
Height 30cm (12 inches)
A decorative border plant with mottled foliage, which withers away in spring to allow for white spathe-like flowers to appear, which are followed by stalks of vivid red berries. Plant tubers about 10cm (4 inches) deep and 15cm (6 inches) apart, in well-drained, humus-rich soil, ideally in dappled shade and with shelter from winds. Flowers spring.
Autumn Crocus - see Colchicum
Begonia
Height depends on variety (some are trailing)
Start the Begonias into growth as soon as possible, planting them 5cm (2 inches) apart in trays or individually in 7cm (3 inches) pots. Plant with hollow side uppermost, into good free-draining compost. Plant so that the tip of the corm is just level with the compost surface. Place in a cool position, with good light and ventilation, ideally a cool greenhouse or windowsill.'As they shoot, grow on at a warm temperature, protecting from strong sunlight until they become established. Harden plants off by moving outside after all risk of frost has passed. Water regularly throughout the summer, avoiding water on the foliage as this causes scorching, and feed approximately every two weeks. Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong the flowering season. Prior to the first frost, stop watering and lay plants on their side. The foliage will die back naturally. When the foliage turns yellow, remove from the corm or tuber, also remove compost from around the corm or tuber, store in dry peat in a frost-free position. Restart your corm or tuber into growth the following March. Flowers summer.
Bessera (Coral Drops)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
A striking bulb for a sunny position outdoors in well-drained soil. Plant bulbs 5cm (2 inches) deep, and at least 5cm (2 inches) apart. Plant in full light and water freely whilst in growth. Provide warm, dry conditions during winter months. Alternatively, bulbs can be grown in containers under glass in either a conservatory or greenhouse. Half hardy. Flowers late summer to autumn.
Bletilla
Height 60cm (24 inches)
A hardy, easy to grow orchid for borders. Plant the pseudobulbs (orchid bulbs) 5cm (2 inches) deep, 45cm (18 inches) apart in moist, well-drained soil with plenty of well-rotted compost or manure incorporated. Provide a sheltered site with partial shade in summer. Mulch to ensure added protection over the winter months. Flowers spring to early summer.
Bloomeria Crocea
Height 30cm (12 inches)
Large golden spheres of golden-yellow blooms for the border or rock garden. Plant corms 8cm (3 inches) deep and 8cm (3 inches) apart, in light fertile, sandy soil in full sun or partial shade. Water well when in growth, but keep dry in summer after flowering. Flowers late spring to early summer.
Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)
Height 20cm (8 inches)
The bulbs should be planted 7cm (3 inches) deep and 5cm (2 inches) apart. Thrives in soil with organic matter in a cool and part shaded position. Flowers spring. Divide overcrowded clumps in the autumn.
Brodiaea
Height 50cm (20 inches)
Brodiaea should be grown in a sheltered site, in light free-draining soil. If soil is heavy then bulbs can be grown in containers. Excellent as a cut flower, blooming from June to July.
Calla Lily - see Zantedeschia
Canna Lilies
Height range 1.5-2.2m (5-7 feet)
Cannas will give the best display if potted prior to planting in the garden. On arrival, plant individually into 13cm (5 inches) pots, using a soil-less potting mix. Grow in a position of full light with shade from hot sun. Water freely and apply a phosphate-rich liquid fertiliser monthly. Plant into the garden mid-June after all other bedding has been planted so make sure you leave an appropriate position in your display. After the first frost cut foliage to the ground, lift root with some soil and store in a cool dry position. When dry, store in slightly moist peat in a frost-free position over the winter months. Repeat planting out process again the following March. Flowers mid summer onwards.
Calochortus (Butterfly Tulip)
Height 45-60cm (18-24 inches)
These bulbs can be grown outdoors, 15cm (6 inches) apart, in an open site in well-drained, soil. Plant the bulbs 10-15cm (4-6 inches) deep and protect from rain during dormant period and in winter by covering with a cloche. Alternatively, bulbs can be grown in containers under glass in either a conservatory or greenhouse. Plant into a loam based compost with added grit. Place in full light and water freely whilst in growth. Provide warm, dry conditions during winter months. Each bulb will produce up to 10 flowers at intervals of one to two weeks. Flowers late spring to early summer.
Camassia
Height 90cm (36 inches)
Plant the bulbs approximately 10cm (4 inches) deep in any humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade, also excellent for naturalising in grassland. The leaves should be allowed to die back after flowering and not removed until completely brown. Do not allow soil to become waterlogged, and mulch in winter if there is risk of frost. Flowers late spring.
Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow)
Height 10-20cm (4-8 inches)
These small bulbs should be planted in well-drained soil in full sun, at a depth of 5cm (2 inches) and 5cm (2 inches) apart. Flowers early spring.
Cardiocrinum (Yunnan Lily)
Height 1.5-4m (5-12 feet)
An imposing beauty for the back of the border, can be grown outdoors, 45cm (18 inches) apart, in a sunny position in well-drained soil. Plant so that bulbs are just below the surface in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Water freely during dry periods, although do not allow to become waterlogged, Cardiocrinums do not enjoy hot and dry conditions either. Apply a balanced fertiliser every month when in growth in order to develop the offsets. Top dress annually and provide a leaf mulch for the winter months. Bulbs may take a few years until they bloom, and after flowering strong offsets will take over in growth. Flowers summer.
Colchicum (Autumn Crocus)
Height 20cm (8 inches)
Autumn Crocus are not related to the true crocus but the similar shaped flower has given them their common name. Plant 10cm (4 inches) deep and 25cm (10 inches) apart as soon as the bulbs are received. They thrive in a well-drained, moist, humus rich soil in sun or partial shade. The autumn flowers soon open into a blaze of colour followed in the spring by their large leaves.
Cosmos atrosanguineus (Chocolate Cosmos)
Height 75cm (30 inches)
Plant 45cm (18 inches) apart
A delicious plant for the border or containers. Plant as soon as possible, if not keep moist until planting. Plant the tubers 10cm (4 inches) deep, either one per 30cm (12 inches) container, or into beds or borders. Provide full sun and a moderately fertile, moist and humus-rich, well-drained soil. Feed with high potash fertiliser every two weeks to assist flowering. Mulch plants during the winter with peat or bracken and in more frost-prone areas lift the tubers and store, frost-free, in damp peat until replanting the following spring. Flowers late summer.
Crocosmia (Montbretia)
Height up to 1.2m (4 feet)
A diverse range of colourful plants, easy to grow and long lasting in the border. Plant in full sun or part-shade, in soil that is moist, but not waterlogged in winter. Plant corms 10cm (4 inches) deep, 8cm (3 inches) apart. In early spring to mid summer, give your plants a good mulch, and protect from slugs and snails as necessary. Planting out into containers can also prove very decorative. Flowers summer.
Crocus
Height 8-10cm (3-4 inches)
A much-loved bulb which is suitable for the border, rockeries, growing in containers, or for naturalising. The familiar wine glass-shaped flowers bloom early and are often planted with snowdrops to welcome in the spring with a wonderful show of colour. Plant in any well-drained garden soil in sun or light shade. The bulbs should be planted 7cm (3 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart. Divide overcrowded clumps in the autumn.
Curcuma roscoeana
Height 90cm (36 inches)
A Malaysian Ginger with orange blooms. Plant 1 tuber per 20-25cm (8-10 inches) pot, provide a soil-based potting mix and plant 5cm (2 inches) deep. Provide a position in bright, filtered light indoors. Water moderately until in full growth, then increase watering and feed every month with balanced liquid fertiliser and spray plants regularly. After flowering, keep dry until new growth begins in spring. Flowers summer. Greenhouse Perennial.
Cyclamen Neopolitanum (Hederofolium)
Height 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
Most people think of Cyclamen as houseplants, but you can grow these miniature hardy versions in the garden. They are most happy in a well-drained, humus rich soil in partial shade.'Plant the corms with the indentation facing upwards. They should be approximately 5cm (2 inches) deep and 15cm (6 inches) apart. Flowers summer to autumn.
Daffodils - see Narcissus
Dahlia
Height 1.2-2m (4-6 feet)
Garden favourites, plant the tubers directly into the garden in April. Prepare the soil well and plant 15cm (6 inches) deep and 45-60cm (18-24 inches) apart. Watch for slug damage as the new foliage appears. Protect your Dahlias from wind damage. After the first frost, lift tubers and lay the roots and foliage in a frost-free shed or garage. Once the foliage has died back, cut off approximately 15cm (6 inches) from the tuber. Store in dry peat in a frost-free position. Re-plant into the garden the following spring. Flowers summer.
Dichelostemma
Height 45cm (18 inches)
Plant 15cm (6 inches) deep in humus-rich, well drained soil. Grows well in full sun or partial shade. Protect plants with mulch of bracken, twigs or well-rotted compost over the winter months. Proves fully hardy if planted by a sunny, sheltered wall. Flowers spring to summer.
Dracunculus (Dragon Arum)
Height 75cm (30 inches)
A haunting specimen, plant 10cm (4 inches) and 60cm (24 inches) apart, deep in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Prefers full sun or partial shade. After flowering, keep bulbs dry and warm, either by leaving in the ground or by lifting and storing. Flowers early summer.
Eremerus (Foxtail Lily)
Height 2m (6 feet)
Robust perennials with lanced foliage and an array of plumes in a bright range of colours, perfect for'the border. Plant tubers 90cm (36 inches) apart and 5cm (2 inches) deep in fertile, sandy, well-drained soil in full sun, and with shelter from wind and adequate support. Mulch plants with fresh compost in autumn, and protect young growth with a dry mulch as it emerges. Flowers early summer onwards.
Eranthis - see Aconites
Erythronium (Dogs Tooth Violets)
Height 25-30cm (10-12 inches)
This easy to grow bulb is suitable for humus-rich, well-drained soil that does not dry out, in full sun or part shade. Plant 10cm (4 inches) deep and at a spacing of 10cm (4 inches). Flowers spring.
Eucomis (Pineapple Lily)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
An exotic bulb for borders or containers. Hardy in southern regions, or when grown against a sunny, sheltered border at the base of a warm wall. Alternatively, can be grown indoors, in containers or lifted each autumn for frost-free, overwinter storage. Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, plant bulbs 15cm (6 inches) deep, and 20cm (8 inches) apart. When growing in containers, provide a soil-based potting mix with added grit and plant bulbs just below the surface. Water freely during growth, keep dry over winter. Flowers late summer.
Freesia
Height 40cm (16 inches)
Bulbs are often especially heat treated to guarantee flowering. Pot on arrival, planting 5 corms to a 12cm (5 inches) pot or 15 corms to a 30cm (12 inches) pot. Always use a good compost. Your corms can also be planted directly into the garden, planting 7cm (3 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart. If grown indoors or out, your plants will benefit from support to ensure straight stems - small canes and string are best. Ideal as a cut flower. Flowers spring onwards.
Fritillaria
Height range 15-60cm (6-24 inches) (depending on variety)
Plant the bulbs to within four times their own depth, in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny border or rock garden. The leaves should be allowed to die back and not removed until completely brown. Alternatively, bulbs can be grown in containers under glass in either a conservatory or greenhouse. Place in full light and water freely whilst in growth. To encourage flowering in following years apply a dressing of sulphate or potash in spring and autumn.
Galtonia (Summer Hyacinth)
Height 1.2m (4 feet)
The flowers of this gem are fragrant and borne on slender stems above fleshy foliage. Plant bulbs 12cm (5 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart, deep in fertile and moist, but well-drained soil in full sun. Performs best in a sheltered border, lift bulbs in northern regions and give winter protection. Flowers late summer.
Gladioli
Height range 25-80cm (10-32 inches)
Grow Gladioli in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Make successive plantings to extend the flowering season. Apply a high-potash feed as spikes develop to boost flowering. Also continue this feed every 10-14 days until 3 weeks after flowering. Staking is recommended for taller cultivars, and especially those, which are being grown for cut flower use. Gladioli are fully hardy, although you can lift them and store dry to replant the following year. To do this, cut down foliage six weeks after blooming and dry the corm for storing. Flowers summer.
Gloriosa superba
Height 2m (6 feet)
Most suited to growing in the greenhouse or conservatory. Plant tubers 10cm (4 inches) deep into containers at least 23-30cm (9-12 inches) in diameter. Provide a moist, soil-based potting mix with added grit. Do not water until growth begins, then continue to water and feed with balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks. Keep tubers dry over the winter months. Pot on as plants become congested in later years. Flowers summer to autumn. Half Hardy.
Hyacinth
Height 20-30cm (8-12 inches)
Hyacinths should be planted directly outside into any reasonable garden soil during September/October, planting approximately 15cm (6 inches) deep and 20cm (8 inches) apart. They prefer lots of humus in the soil and sun or light shade. Hyacinths are also ideal for winter forcing in pots and containers. If you plant your bulbs as soon as possible after despatch, then you have a very good chance of blooms at Christmas. Plant your bulbs into good bulb fibre in bulb bowls or pots. A 13cm (5 inches) bowl should be ample for three bulbs, or 15cm (6 inches) for five. Bulbs are always more effective if planted in odd numbers. Bury the bulbs so that their tips stand just above the compost, water well before placing into a dark cupboard or plunged into a cold frame, covered in damp peat. Keep frost free, and give the bulbs 10-14 weeks of these cool, dark conditions. This is essential for them to form a good root system. Remove from this place when shoots are about 5cm (2 inches), you can then bring them into the light for flowering, the colour should then be showing a week or so later.
Ipheion
Height 15-20cm (6-8 inches)
Easy to grow bulbs producing dainty star shaped flowers, which creates the most impact when planted in clumps or drifts. Should be planted 5cm (2 inches) deep and 5cm (2 inches) apart in a well-drained soil in a place of full sun. Ipheions will increase naturally in these conditions. April to May flowering.
Iris
Height range 10-45cm (4-18 inches) (depending on variety)
Bulbous Irises should be planted in a sunny, well-drained, light soil, preferring a chalky or limey soil. Plant the bulbs 5cm (2 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart for dwarf bulbs and 30cm (12 inches) apart for larger types. After planting, feed with a high-phosphorous fertiliser to encourage large bulbs to form. 'Bearded' Iris require a sunny position and the rhizomes should be planted horizontally, with the top surface exposed above soil level. When planting, top-dress with a low-nitrogen fertiliser, and then again in spring.
Ixia
Height 40-50cm (16-20 inches)
A colourful range of bulbs for containers or the border. Should be planted 8cm (3 inches) deep and 8cm (3 inches) apart. For pots, grow in soil-based potting mix, with added sharp sand, grow in full light and feed with high potash fertiliser every 3 weeks until the foliage dies back. Grow outdoors in fertile soil in full sun, lift bulbs and store dry and frost-free after flowering. Flowers spring to early summer.
Leucojum
Height 90cm (36 inches)
Leucojum resembles the Snowdrop but is much larger, and should be planted 8cm (3 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart. Best left undisturbed to form large clumps, perfect partners with Hostas. Prefers a damp position in sun or partial shade. Flowers late spring to early summer. Attractive as a cut flower.
Liatris (Blazing Star)
Height 75cm-90cm (30 inches to 36 inches)
Easy to grow and suitable for well-drained soil in full sun. Plant 10cm (4 inches) deep and 30cm (12 inches) apart. Feathery plumes of purple or white make ideal cut flowers. Flowers summer. Hardy perennial.
Lily
Height range 50-100cm (20-40 inches) (depending on variety)
Plant in the border or into large containers. For containers allow 5 per 40cm (16 inches) pot, in the bed or border plant 15cm (6 inches) deep and 22cm (9 inches) apart. Position in full sun, with a neutral to acid soil, although they will tolerate slightly alkaline soil. Dig the area well and fork in plenty of well-rotted compost. For heavy soil, add grit to the planting hole and cover the bulb with sharp sand before replacing the soil. Feed Lilies regularly throughout the season with liquid fertiliser to boost performance and keep soil moist at all times. After flowering, you can leave the bulbs in containers and bring into a warm and frost-free position and reduce watering to keep the plants only just moist, or lift the bulbs and store dry in straw. Asiatic Lilies flower early summer.
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria)
Height 8-10cm (3-4 inches)
A traditional garden plant, which is perfect for naturalising and borders. The pips should be planted 2.5cm (1 inches) deep and 15cm (6 inches) apart. Divide overcrowded clumps after flowering, and top-dress with leaf mould in autumn. Indoor displays can be planted outdoors after flowering. Flowers spring.
Lysichiton
Height 1m (40 inches)
Plant into fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist for most of the time. Ideal conditions are at the edge of a pond or stream in full sun or partial shade. Plant tuber 6cm (2 inches) below the soil. Flowers spring.
Mirabilis (Marvel of Peru)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
A bushy perennial that grows from a tuber. Plants are hardy in southern regions, alternatively, they can be grown in containers or lifted each autumn for storing overwinter in frost-free conditions. Store as you would Dahlias. For planting outdoors, choose a sunny position and a well-drained soil. Plant tubers just below the surface, 30cm (12 inches) apart. Water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Flowers summer.
Mediterranean Bells - see Nectaroscordum
Muscari (Grape Hyacinth)
Height 10-20cm (4-8 inches)
Plant bulbs 10cm (4 inches) deep in well-drained soil in either full sun or partial shade. Space Muscari macrocarpum 15cm (6 inches) apart, whilst other types can be grown in close proximity to give best effect. After flowering, ensure bulbs have a dry summer dormancy. This may be best achieved by lifting and storing, especially in the case of Muscari macrocarpum. Flowers spring.
Narcissus / Daffodils
Height range 15-45cm (6-18 inches) (depending on variety)
These are one of the easiest and the most popular of all spring bulbs. The flowers come in a wide variety of shapes, forms and colour. Any well-drained garden soil is suitable for daffodils and they thrive in sun or light shade. Miniature daffodils can be planted in tubs, pots or allowed to naturalise in a rockery. The taller varieties can be planted in bold groups for a sensational wall of colour. Plant as soon as possible. Plant the bulbs approximately twice the bulbs depth. They can be closely planted for impact 7.5cm (3 inches), but if allowing the bulbs to naturalise, plant 15cm (6 inches) apart. The leaves should be allowed to die back and not removed until completely brown. Lift and divide overcrowded clumps in late summer, replanting offsets at once.
Narcissus 'Autumn Gem'
Height 30cm (12 inches)
Plant bulbs as soon as possible, to ensure September emergence. Plant approximately 3cm (1 inches) deep into either open ground or containers which should be well moistened, providing a reasonably well-drained soil.
Choose a site with some shelter from harsh winds. Avoid areas which tend to be frost pockets, best performance is achieved beneath a south facing wall. Remove spent flowers as they fade. Feed well with potash after flowering to benefit the bulbs energy store, and to ensure good performance for next year, remove the flowers as they fade, and remove the bulbs (by planting into a container if necessary) into a frost-free and light environment for the winter months and water occasionally if indoors. Flowers autumn.
Nectaroscordum (Mediterranean Bells)
Height 1.2m (4 feet)
Exotic bulbs for borders. Plant the bulbs 10-18cm (4-7 inches) deep in any moderately fertile, well-drained soil. They can be closely planted for impact, but if allowing the bulbs to naturalise, plant 20cm (8 inches) apart. Prefers full sun or partial shade. Flowers summer.
Nerine (Guernsey Lily)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
A bulbous perennial, producing flowers in clusters up to 15cm (6 inches) wide. A really valuable autumn flowering bulb for a border by a sunny wall or fence. Choose a sunny position and preferably leave undisturbed for several years, performs well when overcrowded as this improves flowering. No fresh manure should be added. Best planted at the surface, or at most, to a depth of 2.5cm (1 inch). Hardy, though will not survive very low temperatures in wet conditions. Soil which may lie wet through the winter should be lightened with grit or similar before planting. Can be covered with a mulch of straw or bracken in exposed areas. Flowers early autumn.
Ornithogalum (Star of Bethlehem)
Height 25cm (10 inches)
Plant bulbs 10cm (4 inches) deep, and 8cm (3 inches) apart in well-drained soil in either full sun or partial shade. After flowering, ensure bulbs have dry winter conditions, lifting and storing may best achieve this. Flowers spring. Alternatively, Ornithogalum dubium can be grown in containers under glass in either a conservatory or greenhouse.
Oxalis (Sorrel)
Height 8cm (3 inches)
Oxalis versicolor is most suitable for growing in containers in the alpine house, provide a potting mix of equal parts loam, leaf mould and grit. Plant 5cm (2 inches) deep and at a spacing of 10cm (4 inches). Water well in growth and apply a balanced fertiliser monthly. Keep barely moist when not in growth. Other forms of Oxalis are suitable for any well-drained soil in the garden. Provide a position in full sun or part shade. Flowers summer to winter.
Paris
Height 75cm (30 inches)
A plant for the shady border with amazing, colourful blooms. Plant 5cm (2 inches) deep, 30cm (12 inches) apart in moist, fertile and leafy soil in full or partial shade. Do not disturb plants and they will multiply and establish well. Flowers late spring to summer.
Polianthes (Tuberose)
Height 1.2m (4 feet)
Intensely fragrant, white blooms, perfect for containers or borders, will perform best if bulbs are lifted for winter storage. Plant 10cm (4 inches) deep, 15cm (6 inches) apart in containers of soil-based potting mix and feed with balanced fertiliser every two weeks, or plant into the border, providing a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Reduce watering after flowering and lift bulbs after the first frost and store in sand in frost-free conditions. Bulbs may be hardy in sheltered borders. Flowers summer to early autumn. Half Hardy.
Puschkinia
Height 20cm (8 inches)
Very easy to grow in well-drained soil, should be planted 5cm (2 inches) deep and 5cm (2 inches) apart. Completely hardy and very trouble free. Flowers early spring.
Ranunculus (Persian Buttercup)
Height 25cm (10 inches)
Bright plants for the container or the borders. Should be planted 'claws' downwards 7cm (3 inches) deep and 7cm (3 inches) apart in a rich soil, incorporating well rotted manure to ensure strong plants with large flowers.'Provide a border sheltered from the north, also suitable for growing in containers. Ideal as cut flowers.'Flowers summer.
Rhodohypoxis
Height 10cm (4 inches)
Small, clump-forming perennials in a range of bright colours, perfect for the rockery or front of the border, or patio containers. Plant 2.5cm (1 inches) deep and 10cm (4 inches) apart, into moderately fertile, well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun, protect plants from excessive winter wet. If growing in containers, provide an acidic potting mix and grow in full light, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Keep only just moist in winter. Flowers summer.
Sanguinaria
Height 15cm (6 inches)
A beautiful, pure white flower for woodland borders. Plant 30cm (12 inches) apart in humus rich, moist and well-drained soil in shade. Will tolerate a position that has sun for part of the day yet remains moist. Flowers spring.
Schizostylis (Kaffir Lily)
Height 60cm (24 inches)
A clump-forming perennial with sword-like foliage along with open, cup-shaped blooms in shades of red or pink during autumn. Plant rhizomes an inch below the surface of the soil and 23cm (9 inches) apart, providing well-drained, fertile and moist conditions. Shelter plants from cold, drying winds and ensure soil is always moist when plants are in full growth. Flowers autumn.
Scilla
Height 10-15cm (4-6 inches)
Scillas enjoy a humus rich, well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. Plant 5cm (2 inches) apart and 8cm (3 inches) deep or naturalise in drifts. Campanulata and Siberica flower late summer/early autumn. Mischtschenkoana is a dwarf bulb with silvery-blue flowers with darker blue stripes and flowers late winter to early spring.
Snowdrops (Galanthus)
Height 15cm (6 inches)
Plant in moist soil in light shade for the best results. The bulbs should be planted 10cm (4 inches) deep and 7cm (3 inches) apart. Divide overcrowded clumps immediately after flowering, replanting at once. Left untouched, Snowdrops can increase rapidly and form large clumps. Flowers very early spring.
Sparaxis (Harlequin Flower)
Height 25cm (10 inches)
Sparaxis are easily cultivated and should be planted in a light and sunny position, plant 5cm (2 inches) deep and 7cm (3 inches) apart.'Protect bulbs from severe frost by covering with straw or bracken, or grow in containers and lift and store dry over winter.'Flowers summer.
Tacca (Bat Plant)
Height 90cm (36 inches)
An unusual plant for the home. Plant into a special compost mix made up of equal parts leaf mould and coarse bark, with added slow-release fertiliser and provide a position in bright, filtered light. Water moderately throughout the year and spray plants regularly to keep humidity high. Apply a half-strength foliar fertiliser monthly. Pot on every 2 or 3 years and remove decaying rhizome growth. Can also be placed outdoors during the summer months. Flowers summer.
Tulips
Height range 10-60cm (4-24 inches) (depending on variety)
Tulips are members of the lily family, flowering in spring. They are best planted in November, to prevent tulip fire disease, in a warm sunny position in good well-drained soil, enriched with garden compost. Plant to a depth of 15cm (6 inches), or three times the bulb height. Keep moist during the growing season. Protect new Tulip shoots from slugs and snails by putting a protective barrier of coarse grit or sand around each plant. Slug pellets may also be used. Tulip plants leave a disease as they die off in late spring so it is important to remove the flower petals as they fall. Cut off the plants at ground level when they have turned yellow. In areas with wet summers, the bulbs can be lifted when the foliage turns yellow and stored in dry sand in a warm shed, until replanting time. Tulips also grow very well in containers. During winter keep the compost moist to dry and water well once the shoots appear.
Zantedeschia/Calla Lily
Height 60-120cm (24-48 inches)
Beautiful Arum style lilies for either containers or into open ground.'Plant so that the tip of any visible shoots are just above the surface of the soil. Provide a good, free-draining soil with a good amount of humus and position in good light. During the growing season, water freely and feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks until the flowers have faded. During winter, reduce watering and keep plants only just moist. Place containers in a cool greenhouse until you see signs of growth in the spring. For outside plants, overwinter by covering with twigs, leaves or moist peat. Flowers summer.
