As spring stirs and much of the garden still lies dormant and dull, it is the baby bulbs that take centre stage, injecting splashes of jewel-like colour into beds or borders, containers and lawns. ‘On their own, they may be rather small and insignificant, but planted in bold groups, they make an impact far exceeding their individual size,’ notes Christine Skelmersdale VMH, author of A Gardener’s Guide to Bulbs.
Among their number are dwarf daffodils, cyclamen, silvered crocuses, species tulips, purple windflowers, and blue-flowered beauties including reticulata irises, grape hyacinths and scilla – ranging in colour from cobalt and sapphire hues through to ice or midnight blue.
Many are available now from garden centres, sprouting and ready to slot into containers. For the greatest impact, plant a single variety per…
