Beauty of bulbs

When we think of bulb plants, it’s often the spring-flowering daffodils, hyacinths and hybrid tulips that come to mind, but there are a gazillion others to consider. From the demure autumn-flowering Acis autumnalis to the giant summer-flowering Himalayan lily (Cardiocrinum giganteum), as well as many species of un-hybridised tulips (known as species tulips), there’s something for every season and climate.

All bulbs have similar growing requirements, but some (mainly hybrid tulips) need to be chilled in the fridge before planting, to improve flowering. And then, after flowering, some bulbs (for example, freesias and hyacinths) benefit from being lifted and replanted each year, but most can stay in the ground to multiply for years to come.

How to grow

Lyn Chambers from Tulips With a Difference in Western Australia says most bulbs will grow in any soil, as long as it’s free-draining and there’s no chance of the bulbs becoming waterlogged.

“Bulbs need moisture during their growing period, but not when they’re dormant.” The pH is also important and should be 6.5–7 for most bulbs. When planting in pots, check the pH of the potting mix, as it can vary. Add lime or dolomite to raise the pH.

It’s important to follow the recommended depth for planting, as shown on the packet. “Daffodils and hybrid tulips should both be planted 10–15cm deep,” says Lyn. “If they’re too shallow and exposed to the summer sun they’ll dry out. However, autumn-flowering bulbs such as belladonna lilies and Nerine and Lycoris species like to have the neck of the bulb slightly exposed, as they need the heat to perform well.”

When planting in the ground, consider the flowering time and height of the bulb – not just the colour! “In a bulb bed you might have crocuses and mini daffodils at the front, hyacinths behind, and then tulips and traditional daffodils at the back,” says Tim Drewitt from Red Earth Bulbs.

Climate

Bulbs grow in all climates, but some do better in particular areas, depending on where they’re from, so consider this when choosing. There’s a plethora for cold climates, including the dainty and frost-hardy snowdrops (Galanthus spp.), while “alliums, anemones, ranunculus, sparaxis and ixia can all handle heat and humidity,” says Tim. “Hippeastrums are native to South America and multiply twice or three times as fast in areas like the Whitsundays as they would in Victoria.”

Alice Springs horticulturist Geoff Miers says bulbs grow well in central Australia, as long as organic matter is added to the sandy soil regularly. “The soil tends to be too well drained, and compost adds body and improves the water-holding capacity.”

Care

Feed all your bulbs with a complete fertiliser, such as blood and bone, at the start of their growing season. Summer and autumn-flowering bulbs can be mulched, but it’s a no-no for others. “When spring- and winter-flowering bulbs are at a perfect depth and you add mulch, it impacts their ability to flower and reproduce, and can cause them to rot,” says Tim.

Hyacinth, ranunculus, hybrid tulips and calla lily bulbs are best dug up and stored until the following planting season. Allow the foliage to die completely before you remove it, as the leaves will continue to photosynthesise, feeding the bulb. Then, dig up the bulb, brush off the soil, and leave the bulb to dry out of the sun. Pop it in a breathable bag and place it where hungry rats can’t find it.

Remember that hybrid tulips need chilling in warmer areas. “Chilling hybrid tulips in the fridge for 6–8 weeks prior to planting can persuade them to flower earlier and increases stem length,” says Lyn. “You can stagger your flowering times by chilling some and not others.”

Lesser-known varieties

These lesser-known varieties require the same care as popular varieties. Grow them in well-drained soil, feed with a complete fertiliser at the start of the growing season (spring, summer or autumn), and allow the leaves to fully die down once the flowers are finished, whether you’re leaving the bulb in the ground or lifting it out.

“Species tulips are amazing, and unlike hybrid tulips, they should remain in the ground to naturalise,” says Jane Tonkin from Tonkin’s Bulbs. “Species tulips don’t need chilling in the fridge, as they will pull themselves down to their preferred depth in the soil.”

Jane recommends grape hyacinth (Muscari spp.) for beginners. “They’re easy and great for kids. Blue is most common, but it’s worth seeking out the pink, purple and white forms. Triteleia spp. is also easy. It flowers from late spring into early summer and suits a nice warm spot. Calochortus spp. is gorgeous! It’s rare in Australia, but also relatively easy to grow.”

Fritillaria spp. is for the enthusiasts, but snake’s head fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris) is one of the less fussy species you could try (header image). It’s suitable for cooler climates in a position that receives afternoon shade.

Photo by iStock