66 Garden design Reasons to be cheerful
a garden is an act of faith for the future. Sometimes our expectations are fulfilled. On other occasions we can be pleasantly surprised by the sudden appearance of something we had forgotten – or maybe didn’t even know – was there. As the days shorten and the sunshine of summer becomes a distant memory, one of the most optimistic things a gardener can do is to plant bulbs (corms, rhizomes and tubers). These brown, wizened lumps are an unlikely source of joy, but come the spring and summer they will be a mass of vibrant colour and a signal that a hopeful new season is upon us. Bulbs also make appealing and often fragrant specimens for pots on terraces, balconies or in window boxes - colour you can enjoy from the house on a chilly early spring day. When thinking about bulbs, the key is to
T
work out how many you need and then add more. Do not be mean and err on the side of abundance and your optimism will be rewarded.
Lack of choice will not be a problem you
face, but it is important to consider when different species flower, to spread the visual interest and avoid a ‘firework effect’ – a concentrated big bang that’s over before you know it.
here are few things to be optimistic about in the world today – but luckily your garden is one of them. Creating
by Colette Charsley One of the few
The adage
‘right plant right place’ holds true for bulbs; some prefer dappled woodland shade whilst others need to bake in full sun – always read the label! The following itinerary
When thinking
about bulbs, the key is to work how many you need and then add more.
is a rough guide to seasonality, with sun loving species tending to flower later. Winter and early spring performers include snow drops (the clue of course is in the name) and crocuses, most of which will appear in January or February, as will Iris reticulata. Daffodils will put in an appearance in February and with the right mix of varieties should last through into May, when Tulips should start to emerge. Aliums and bearded Irises can give you colour and form through May, June and July. These are then followed by the glorious Lillies, which in their turn are followed by Dahlias. And so the seasons go around.
Hopefully the world will be a different, happier place next year and with some careful planning, you can ensure that your own little corner of it will be.
colette@charsleydesign.com
www.charsleydesign.com t: 01548 581753 m: 07774 827799 Follow me on Twitter @ColetteCharsley Professional Landscape & Garden Design
Creative and beautiful designs for village, town and country gardens
Colette Charsley PG Dip OCGD t: 01548 581753 m: 07774 827799
colette@charsleydesign.com
www.charsleydesign.com
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