Gardeners can welcome spring early with a variety of early spring flowering bulbs. Some are hardy enough to poke up through the snow of March and early April. When planted in large groups, these bulbs add a show of brilliance to the garden.
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Old-fashioned Snowdrops, Galanthus nivalis, are very early to flower and are actually partial to the cold weather. They grow 7″ to 12″ tall and flower from January to March in zone 7 and higher gardens, or late February to April in zone 5 and zone 6 gardens. Snowdrops generally flower in March and April in much colder areas. Bulbs should be purchased in the fall and planted 3″ deep in healthy garden soil. They like a dappled shade location. For the best show, purchase packages of 20 or more bulbs.
Spring Crocus, Crocus vernus, flowers before the tulips and daffodils put on their show, generally in March and April, depending on the garden’s location. There are several colorful varieties of spring crocus. The crocus is a small plant and will grow to approximately 5″ tall. It’s a plant that looks best when planted in masses. Purchase collections in bags in autumn and plant 2″ deep in ordinary garden soil. The gardener could also plant them in the lawn at the edge of flower borders for a natural look.
Grape Hyacinth, Muscari botryoides, is often known as the bluebell of Europe. It grows to approximately 6″ tall, and flowers in April in most gardens in temperate zones. There are several colorful varieties, but blue is the most popular and easiest to find. Purchase in quantities in autumn and plant 2″ deep in the garden beds or directly in the lawn.
Crested Iris, Iris cristata, is an American native plant that is very popular as a garden flower. It’s a low growing iris to 5″ tall, so it’s a good flower for the front of the border. The light blue flowers appear in April in most locations. This bulb needs to be planted by rootstock in autumn to about 3″ below the soil. Crested iris will spread and form a dense mat.
These bulb plants are all lovely plants for naturalizing. They will spread out over time and form a carpet of color before the leaves unfurl on the trees and shrubs. All can be planted directly in the lawn for naturalizing. By the time the lawn needs to be mown, the bulbs will be finished and the mowing won’t hurt them. The gardener will enjoy this spring welcome for many years.
References
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