Naturalising

Naturalising bulbs: bulbs that take over for you

From tiny wild tulips to imposing alliums

Natural, easy to grow and great for biodiversity

Frequently asked questions about naturalising bulbs

• What does ‘naturalising’ mean in relation to flower bulbs?
  Naturalising means that, once planted, flower bulbs return of their own accord year after year and gradually spread further, without you having to replant them. They therefore behave almost like a wild plant in your garden.
• Which flower bulbs are good naturalisers?
  Botanical species such as muscari, crocuses, the forest tulip, camassia and many allium species are known to naturalise well. Large-flowered, highly hybridised cultivars – such as many modern tulips – generally do not naturalise as well.
• When should you plant naturalising bulbs?
  It’s best to plant naturalising bulbs in the autumn, from September to December, before the first frost. This gives them plenty of time to form roots before winter.
• How do you ensure naturalising bulbs return well?
  Always allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering before removing it – the bulb draws energy from this for the following year. Only mow lawns containing naturalising bulbs once the foliage has turned yellow.
• Are naturalising bulbs suitable for a natural garden?
  Absolutely; naturalising bulbs are ideally suited to a natural, ecological garden. Scatter them loosely across the lawn or in borders for the most natural effect, and combine them with varieties that flower at different times.