September 14th-20th

BULBS for next spring and summer are in the shops so we should plan now for the coming year

BULBS for next spring and summer are in the shops so we should plan now for the coming year. The temptation will be to put off thinking of next year while there is still some colour and interest and while we await the late autumn flowers.

As always, some items in the shops will be in short supply and will disappear, quickly snapped up by the early and vigilant buyers. Not all bulbs need to go into the ground immediately. Tulips, for instance, will not start into growth for several months but daffodils are already making roots as you will see if you disturb established clumps.

The selection of bulbs on offer may seem unending and it can be difficult to make a wise choice. Newer gardeners will be tempted to go for bigger daffodils, on the basis that they are better value and will give a better show. There is truth in that, but do look carefully at the smaller-flowered forms on offer as many of these will fit in much more pleasingly in flower borders and among shrubs. The foliage of daffodils will hang around a long time after flowers have faded and must be tolerated until late May or June if bulbs are to renew themselves for another year. No one will enjoy having a mess of dying foliage in prominent places for too long.

The desire to have a cheery spring can rush us all into hasty decisions which we regret later. Choose your bulbs carefully.