Now is the perfect time

As the vibrant blooms of Narcissus (daffodils), Tulipa (tulips), and other spring bulbs fade, now is the perfect time to care for these plants to ensure a beautiful display next year. Deadheading and feeding the bulbs as their foliage dies back is crucial for their health and vitality.

Deadheading and Feeding

Once the flowers have finished their display, resist the urge to tidy up or tie the foliage. Although it may look untidy, the leaves play a crucial role in photosynthesis, which helps the bulb store energy for the next growing season. Cutting or tying up the foliage can inhibit this process, weakening the bulb and affecting next year’s blooms.

To deadhead, pinch off the spent flowers with your finger and thumb, or use scissors to cut off the entire flower stem. This prevents the plant from using energy to produce seeds, redirecting it to the bulb.

Next, continue feeding your bulbs with an all-purpose fertiliser that contains a balanced mix of the three core nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertiliser once a week for up to five weeks as the foliage dies back. This nourishment will help the bulbs build the reserves they need to produce strong, healthy flowers in the next season.

Managing Foliage and Bulbs

If your tulips and other bulbs are planted in a prominent spot, such as the main flower bed, you might want to make space for summer planting. Here are a couple of options for managing the foliage and bulbs:

1. Lifting and Storing: Carefully lift out the bulbs and foliage once the flowers have faded. Place them in a container and allow them to dry out completely. Once dried, store them in a cool, dry place until it’s time for late autumn planting. This method keeps your garden tidy and frees up space for summer plants.

2. Re-potting: Alternatively, you can re-pot the bulbs and place them in a less visible part of the garden. This allows the foliage to continue photosynthesis, ensuring the bulbs remain healthy and robust. This method is beneficial if you have limited storage space or prefer to keep the bulbs growing actively until autumn.

Conclusion

The interests of Next year’s bloom

Taking the time to care for your spring bulbs after their flowering period is essential for maintaining a beautiful garden year after year. By deadheading, feeding, and thoughtfully managing the foliage and bulbs, you’ll ensure a stunning display next spring.

Happy gardening!