The best way to ease the fall melancholy is to get on with your spring preparations. Right now begins the period of planting bulbs of ornamental plants, incl. crocuses, narcissus and, above all, tulips.In colder regions, plant tulips in October as early as possible, before the first frosts.
In areas with milder winters, we can place them in the ground even until mid-November. Late planting can even be beneficial as the plants will begin vegetation a little later and will not be harmed by the last spring frosts.
The planting period is conducive to the implementation of new ideas. Colorful color combinations of three to five different varieties of tulips have become very fashionable in recent years. At the same time, the bulbs of each variety should not be planted in several larger groups.All bulbs are mixed and evenly distributed over the entire surface of the bed.When choosing varieties, pay attention to the leading color and possibly similar flowering periods.
Dutch onions
Preparations are underway for the new garden season in the Keukenhof park in Lisse (approx. 30 km south-west of Amsterdam). The bulb market will be held here from 16 to 18 October (free entry).Flower lovers can buy the best and most beautiful varieties these days and receive first-hand advice on growing and care.
While walking along the park's paths, we can see the works on the great action of planting over 7 million bulbs of ornamental plants. The colorful effects of the autumn works will be on display next year from March 18 to May 16.
Only a handful of tulip varieties - both early and late - bloom at the same time.Arrangements with variations in delicate pastel shades as well as gradually, gently changing colors look very effective and elegant.The combinations in bright shades of yellow, orange and red give a stronger impression.
Tulips can partner with many different ornamental plants in the bed. They are mainly narcissi and hyacinths. Apart from them, two-year-old lacquers, daisies and forget-me-nots are excellent neighbors. We can plant their young specimens in the bed now, simultaneously with the tulip bulbs.
Best starting conditions
Tulips feel best in quite loose and fertile soil. Before planting the bulbs, loosen heavy clay or loam soil, add compost or peat when digging.At the bottom of each planting well we sprinkle a layer of drainage sand.
The optimum planting depth for tulip bulbs is 12-15 cm. For the bulbs in groups placed close to each other, dig one larger hole with a spade or spatula.
To protect against voracious voles, it is worth planting onions in special baskets or hand-made covers made of fine-mesh mesh.In pots and boxes it pays to plant bulbs very densely next to each other.This is a good way to colorfully start the next warm season on the terrace or balcony.
