Autumn isn’t just about raking leaves and sipping pumpkin lattes, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your garden for a burst of colour next spring. By planting bulbs now, you’re essentially “banking” beautiful flowers that will greet you as soon as winter fades.
Why Plant Bulbs in Autumn?
Spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils and hyacinths need a cold, dormant period to thrive. Autumn’s cooler soil temperatures give them just the right environment to establish strong root systems before the ground freezes.
When shopping for bulbs, look for:
Store bulbs in a cool, dry place until planting — avoid leaving them in plastic bags that trap moisture.
Bulbs thrive in well-draining soil. If your garden soil is heavy clay, mix in organic matter like our Beds & Borders Compost to improve drainage.
This is a great time to use our compost and soil improvers to enrich your beds and give your bulbs the best start.
Aftercare Tips
Add a light layer of mulch to insulate against fluctuating temperatures.
Mark the planting area so you don’t accidentally dig them up in spring.
Water occasionally during dry spells before the ground freezes.
Tulips – Classic springtime favourite with vibrant colours.
Daffodils – Cheerful yellow blooms that return year after year.
Hyacinths – Fragrant flowers perfect for borders and containers.
Crocuses – Early bloomers that peek through even when snow is melting.
Planting bulbs in autumn is one of the easiest and most rewarding gardening tasks. A little effort now guarantees a stunning display in the spring.
🌷 Ready to get started? Check out our guide on growing and planting miniature daffodils.
Autumn isn’t just about raking leaves and sipping pumpkin lattes, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your garden for a burst of colour next spring.
Autumn isn’t just about raking leaves and sipping pumpkin lattes, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your garden for a burst of colour next spring.
By mid-August, herb gardens are at their most generous. Basil, parsley, mint and rosemary are overflowing, and the scent of thyme or oregano fills the warm air.
By mid-August, herb gardens are at their most generous. Basil, parsley, mint and rosemary are overflowing, and the scent of thyme or oregano fills the warm air.
August is one of the busiest months in the British gardening calendar. While summer blooms are fading, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for autumn.
August is one of the busiest months in the British gardening calendar. While summer blooms are fading, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for autumn.
When temperatures soar up to the 30s, your garden can suffer from heat stress, wilting, and dehydration.
When temperatures soar up to the 30s, your garden can suffer from heat stress, wilting, and dehydration.
