Crocus vernus
The Spring Crocus is one of the very first flowers to open in February and March, in shades of purple, yellow, or white. The small chalice-shaped blooms often appear before the foliage has fully developed. Crocuses naturalise beautifully in lawns and are an early food source for bees after winter.
Plant the corms in autumn (September-October) at 5-8 cm depth in well-drained soil. Sun or light shade is sufficient. Feeding is unnecessary. After flowering, let the foliage die back completely before mowing the lawn.
Do not remove foliage after flowering — it feeds the corm. Wait at least six weeks after blooming before mowing. No further pruning is needed.
Narcissus pseudonarcissus
The Daffodil is one of the earliest spring bloomers, with distinctive yellow or white flowers that release a fresh, sweet scent. Blooming in March and April, daffodils naturalise easily in lawns and under trees. The bulbs are toxic to rodents, so they remain untouched.
Tulipa gesneriana
The Garden Tulip is the icon of the Dutch spring, with chalice-shaped flowers in virtually every imaginable colour. It blooms in April and May, transforming borders and pots into a colourful spectacle. Tulip bulbs are planted in autumn and reward with a reliable spring display.
Allium giganteum
Giant allium is a striking bulb plant with large, globe-shaped purple flower heads on sturdy stems. The blooms appear in May and June and attract plenty of bees and butterflies. The dried seed heads remain decorative in the border well into autumn.