Spring fever

Those first optimistic green shoots peeking through are a sure sign that winter is on the wane: with a selection of spring bulbs from our garden centre in Emersons Green you can cheer yourself up from January to early summer.

Just after New Year the first snowdrops appear: tall 'Atkinsii', or 'John Gray' carrying large flowers on arching stems. Scatter other January jewels at their feet for contrast: bright yellow winter aconites, or pretty pink Cyclamen coum.

February is the time for crocuses – 'Snow Bunting' is pure white, while purple Crocus tommasinianus spreads happily through rough grass. Grow them with exquisite dwarf irises, just 10cm tall: 'Katharine Hodgkin' has curious greyish-purple petals, 'Harmony' is a slatey blue, while 'J.S. Dijt' is vibrant purple.

In March the show really gets going. Brilliant yellow daffodils, blue perfumed hyacinths, a sprinkling of bright pink Anemone coronaria and perhaps some white Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow) make a riot of vibrant colour.

Plant spring bulbs in September or October in well-drained soil in sun or dappled shade, about three times as deep as the bulb itself. Adding a handful of grit helps drainage in heavy soil. Read our blog to learn more about planting Spring flowering bulbs.

Please ask the staff in our Emersons Green garden centre for more information and advice about bulbs for a springtime display.