Tulip Bulbs to Brighten Up Any British Garden
As the warmer weather is finally here, it is the perfect time for gardeners across England to turn their thoughts their much-loved gardens. Tulips are the ideal addition to any garden or planter. This colourful plant with slender stalks and beautiful, dishes like flowers has been winning over hearts for ages now. For the professional horticulturist or the first-time gardener, planting of tulip bulbs is one of the most enriching activities that are assured to produce a spectacular result once the flowers bloom in spring. They appeared in the middle of the 16th century and quickly gained popularity amongst the royalty. Tulips are not indigenous to our region but are for sure well-acquainted with the English gardens. The tulips were first cultivated in the area of present day country of Turkmenistan in Central Asia and were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. They soon became the indicators of riches and thus, in the 1630s, led to what came to be known as ‘Tulip Mania’ in the Netherlands. Before long, these valued flowers reached out to the other side of the North Sea and have since been appreciated in England.
How to Select the Tulip Bulbs
Things are pretty easy as far as the choice of the tulip bulbs is concerned. Here are a few popular options to consider.
- Darwin Hybrid Tulips: These are characterised by their big and brightly coloured flowers and thick stalks making it ideal for growing flowers with an intention of achieving bulk dyes.
- Lily-Flowered Tulips: These tulips bring the sophistry of neatly pointed petals to the garden borders.
- Triumph Tulips: These tulips which grow up to medium height have a very large colour range, and they are suitable for borders and containers.
- Species Tulips: This option is perfect for the rock gardens or naturalising in the lawns since they are small and delicate like the natural tulips.
Generally, the bulb size dictates the size of the flower, so do not think that buying better quality bulbs are a waste of money.
Planting Your Tulip Bulbs
In England, it is advised that tulip bulbs should be planted during October and up to the December only. This later planting helps the bulbs to avoid fungal diseases that are likely to attack bulbs planted on warm soil. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your tulips get off to the best start: Select the well-lit and warm area that has begun to dry out after watering, which means the drainage should be sufficiently good. Tulips hate heavy clinging soil and will rot if waterlogged, so for heavy clay soils incorporate some grit if necessary.
Plant bulbs in small 15-20 cm deep holes and set them 10-15 cm from the other. Position bulb with its tip uppermost in water. Sow lightly in soil and this one requires good watering. If squirrels or mice are a pest in regard to your garden, then, one should cover the planted areas with chicken wire till spring.
Caring for Your Tulips
Indeed, tulips are rather easy to maintain after planting, they do not need much attention. They will just sleep right through the winter providing you with the burst of activity in the other seasons. When the first signs of shoots, watch out for slugs and snail since tulip’s new leaves are one of their favourite meals. Once flowering has occurred, it is recommended that the foliage of the plant to be left to die off. This process enables the bulb to accumulate energy for the subsequent year’s display of the Christmas trees. It is okay to lift and store the bulbs after the leaves have wilted or, leave the bulbs to grow in the ground if the soil is free draining.
Beyond the Bloom
Tulips are of course beautiful on their own but are even more beautiful when complemented with other flowering plants. Use them with daffodils for that classic spring planting, or with forget-me-nots for that cute cottage garden look. For a more modern appearance, mass plant single colours in groups or sweeps. It is also worthwhile to mention about the application of tulips for growing cut flowers as well. Cut just a few stems when the buds are showing a hint of colour, and you will be able to flood your home with the fragrances of spring while the flowers continue to open in a vase.
