February’s Plant of the Month: Potted Spring Bulbs
Spring is just around the corner (even if the weather looks otherwise!), and there’s no quicker way to brighten up your garden than with some potted spring bulbs!
These little pots of joy bring a much-needed splash of colour to February and are a great way to get a head start on the season. Many early spring bulbs, such as crocuses and snowdrops, provide vital nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators just as they are emerging from hibernation.
Whether you’re new to gardening or a green-fingered pro, these beauties are so easy to care for. Once planted, spring bulbs require minimal care—just a bit of watering and feeding after flowering to help them store energy for the next year.
Here’s a look at some of our favourite spring bulbs, along with tips to help them bloom brilliantly.
Snowdrop (Galanthus) – A little sign of hope
The snowdrop is one of the first flowers to peek through the frosty ground, bravely defying the winter chill. With its delicate white petals and nodding blooms, it’s a symbol of hope and new beginnings.
Care tips for snowdrops:
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Best in partial shade or dappled sunlight.
- After flowering, let the leaves die back naturally to feed the bulb for next year.
Crocus – a colourful early riser
Crocuses are like nature’s confetti, popping up in shades of purple, yellow, and white. These cheerful little blooms are a welcome sight in February and they’re also a great source of nectar for early pollinators.
Care tips:
- Place in a sunny or lightly shaded spot.
- Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Tulip – the showstopper
If you want a true head-turner, tulips are the way to go! Available in a dazzling array of colours, they bring elegance and vibrancy to any space.
Care tips:
- Keep in a bright, cool spot indoors or plant outside in pots for a stunning display.
- Water sparingly—overwatering can cause bulbs to rot.
- Once the flowers fade, remove the spent blooms but keep the foliage intact.
Tête-à-Tête Daffodil – pocket-sized sunshine
These mini daffodils may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to adding a cheerful glow to your garden or windowsill. Perfect for pots, they brighten even the gloomiest of February days.
Care tips:
- Water regularly but don’t let them sit in soggy soil.
- Keep in a bright spot—indoors or outside.
- After flowering, let the leaves wither naturally before removing them.
Hyacinth – the scent of spring
Hyacinths don’t just look stunning with their densely packed blooms; they also have a gorgeous fragrance that fills the air with the promise of spring.
Care tips:
- Keep in a cool, bright spot to extend flowering time.
- Water moderately—just enough to keep the soil moist.
Blooming with excitement for Spring!
These potted spring bulbs are a fantastic way to bring colour, fragrance, and a little bit of seasonal magic to your home and garden. Whether you keep them indoors for an early taste of spring or pop them outside for a natural display, they’re easy to grow and full of cheer.
Pop into Grimsby Garden Centre to pick up your favourites. Spring is on its way, and we can’t wait!