Renowned gardening expert Monty Don has shared valuable insights on the best time and depth to plant bulbs as the summer season draws to a close. In a recent episode of BBC Gardeners’ World, Monty highlighted the importance of planting certain flowers at specific times, particularly focusing on popular springtime favourites such as crocus and early irises. He disclosed his preferred daffodil variety, tete-a-tete, which he planted as an example during the demonstration.
According to Monty, September is the prime month for planting most bulbs, while tulips are better suited for November and December. He explained that planting bulbs early in the autumn allows the roots to establish in the still-warm ground, promoting strong growth. Despite the benefits of September planting, Monty acknowledged the challenge of dry soil during this month, especially for grass areas. He recommended the use of a bulb planter for efficient and precise planting, stressing the importance of planting bulbs at the correct depth for optimal results.
Monty also shared a gardening technique called “bulb lasagne,” where different types of bulbs are layered in pots to create a striking garden feature. He advised starting with a large container filled with compost, layering bulbs in a specific order, with early bloomers at the top and later bloomers at the bottom. This method ensures a continuous display of colourful blooms throughout the spring season.
In a previous podcast appearance, Monty elaborated on the bulb lasagne technique, suggesting a combination of daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, irises, and more for a visually appealing result. By following this layering approach in pots, gardeners can enjoy a diverse display of flowers blooming at different times. Monty’s expert advice aims to guide gardening enthusiasts in making the most of their bulb planting endeavours, ensuring a vibrant and flourishing garden.