When autumn leaves have fallen, elegant little floral petticoats burst from the soil in optimistic, spring-anticipating growth.
Words: Linda Ross
Hoop petticoat
Narcissus ‘Fyno’
These dainty ivory or golden flowers appear as early as late-May. They are happy in any spot that has winter sun, summer shade is not a problem. Perfect
for gardens and pots, and just 15cm tall in flower.
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Daffodil
Narcissus ‘Early Sensation’
The earliest of the ‘trumpet’ daffs, starting in June, with flowers held on 20cm stems. The foliage is not well developed at flowering time making this
a good choice for pots.Also look for ‘Golden Robin’, bred by renowned Australian rose breeder Alister Clark.
Photo - Khairil Azhar Junos/Shutterstock.com
Grape hyacinth
Muscari
Plant these carefree bulbs by the thousands to create swaths beside ponds and beneath trees. Dig up overcrowded bulbs in late spring. Divide, leaving the
foliage attached, replant immediately and water well.
Photo - Kollawat Somsri/Shutterstock.com
Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
The true snowdrop is suited only to cool climates. They produce one flower per super-fine 10cm tall stem. The three large outer petals (tepals) open out
like propellers, looking as if they’re doing all they can to catch the rays. They flower in both bull sun and moderate shade.
Photo - Don Pablo/Shutterstock.com
Snowflakes
Leucojum
Snowflakes bloom in early June and love light shade and moist, well-drained soil. Like daffodils, they look best in a mass. Plant bulbs about 5cm deep
in autumn and they will multiply freely. Divide clumps every 3-5 years.
Photo - Jonas St. Juste/Shutterstock.com
Jonquils
Narcissus
The easiest to grow of all the garden bulbs, perfumed jonquils pop up every August. They come in cream and bright yellow, though our favourite is ivory
‘Paperwhite’. Wait until foliage has died back before tidying up and feed with bulb food as they die down.
Dutch crocus
Crocus vernus
Easy to grow in cool to temperate climates, with a wide range of colours. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Protect from hot summer sun. They
will develop generous clumps. Dig and divide every four or five years.
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