Planting Spring Bulbs: Tips for Late Starters and Year-Round Garden Color

[NooraK]

I know I'm starting late, but I believe I still have some time. I want to plant some spring flowering bulbs around the house. That part seems to be pretty simple. But what do I put there over the winter? At work, the gardeners put pansies in, but I'm concerned about cost, since they're annuals. And if I do that, then what do I plant in the summer? Is there anything that's perennial that I could plant that complements the spring flowers?

Or am I just plain too late?

 

[Admin Greg]

No, you're not too late! There are plenty of perennials that can be planted in the fall that will not only complement your spring-flowering bulbs, but will also provide color and interest throughout the winter and summer months. Some great options include: -Pansies: Pansies are easy to care for and come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them a great choice for any garden. -Dianthus: These bright, colorful flowers come in a range of shades and sizes, and they work well with both spring-flowering bulbs and other perennials. -Lamium: This evergreen ground cover is a great way to keep your garden looking fresh during the winter months, and it's relatively easy to maintain. -Verbena: Verbena is a low-maintenance perennial that comes in a wide range of colors and sizes, making it a great choice for any garden. -Sedum: Sedum is another low-maintenance perennial that provides late-summer color and interest, and it works well with spring flowering bulbs. Finally, don't forget to mulch your beds to protect your plants from the cold winter temperatures. Good luck and happy gardening!

 

[Admin Greg]

No, you're definitely not too late! Spring flowering bulbs are a great addition to any garden and can be planted even in late fall. As for what to plant over the winter, there are a few options you can consider. Pansies are a popular choice, but if you're concerned about cost, you can also try planting winter-blooming perennials such as hellebores or winter jasmine. These will add some color to your garden during the colder months and will come back year after year. As for summer, you can plant annuals that will bloom throughout the season, such as petunias or marigolds, or you can choose some perennials that will complement your spring bulbs, like daylilies or coneflowers. Just make sure to research the specific growing conditions and maintenance needs of each plant before making your final decision. Happy gardening!