Gardens

Monty Don reveals why ordering spring-flowering bulbs in August is a must

We might not plant spring-flowering bulbs just yet, but the gardener urges us to order them right now

garden bench and tulips
(Image credit: Kate Wilson)

Spring may feel like a long way away right now, but to keep the garden looking at its best in all seasons, it's always worth thinking ahead. Gardener's World host Monty Don has highlighted why now is a good time to order your spring bulbs, so that you are able to plant them in time.

From dainty lily of the valley and bluebells to striking tulips and daffodils, the arrival of our spring flowers is a real joy after the colder months. Here's why a bit of pre-planning will go a long way when it comes to bringing your spring garden ideas to life.

tulips in a garden

(Image credit: Future)

'Most plants are in short supply at the moment through a combination of the effects of the pandemic and Brexit,' says Monty, writing on his blog. 'So it is a good idea to order your spring-flowering bulbs in good time, so they can be planted in September or October (although tulips should not be planted until November).'

Just like building supplies and trades, garden supplies can also be harder to get hold of due to Covid-related delays. Whether you're experimenting with vibrant container gardening ideas in a small urban space, or planning pretty flower bed ideas, do consider stocking up in August.

foxgloves, tulips and daffodils in garden

(Image credit: Future)

Liam Lapping from Flowercard agrees that ordering your spring bulbs in advance of planting in the autumn will ensure your garden is ready for the new flowering season.

'This month would be the best time to order your bulbs in advance of planting in September and October,' says Liam. 'This is to ensure you have all the bulbs on time, but also to give you an opportunity to see where they could be best planted in your garden.'

deck chair in a large garden full of bluebells

(Image credit: Future)

'If you do buy your bulbs in advance, make sure to store your bulbs away from direct sunlight and damp, in a cool, dry room like a shed or garage,' adds Liam. 'This is to ensure your bulbs are of the best quality when coming to plant them to avoid things like fungus or rot from growing.'

If you have always wanted to display your own hyacinths, daffodils or tulips freshly cut from the garden, pick some bulbs up now and you'll be so glad you did come spring.

Millie Hurst
Section Editor

Millie Hurst is a freelance lifestyle writer with over six years of experience in digital journalism. Having previously worked as Solved Section Editor at Homes & Gardens and Senior SEO Editor at News UK in London and New York, Millie has written for an array of homes brands including Livingetc and Real Homes and was formerly Senior Content Editor at Ideal Home. She has written and edited countless features on home organization, decluttering and interior design and always hopes to inspire readers with new ways to enjoy their homes. She lives in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and loves to weave nature-inspired decor and nods to time spent in Italy into her own home.