October is an important month for gardeners who want spring colour. As the air cools and the ground is still easy to work, this is the best time to plant most spring bulbs like daffodils, crocuses, alliums, and hyacinths. Planting now means you’ll enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance display when winter ends. For tulips, it’s best to wait until late October or November to help avoid fungal disease.

Spring bulbs are very self-sufficient. Once you plant them, they need almost no care because they already have all the energy they need to grow and flower. When the time is right, they will appear, providing early nectar for pollinators and brightening up your garden. They are perfect for easy-care spaces. Just plant them and forget about them until they bloom.

The process is simple: dig a hole, place the bulb with the pointed side up, and cover it. Plant bulbs at a depth that is two to three times their height. For example, a two-inch bulb should be planted four to six inches deep. If you are planting in a large area, try arranging the bulbs in natural-looking drifts for a more scenic effect.

Planting different types of bulbs now can make your garden bloom for much longer. Early crocuses and snowdrops can be followed by daffodils and hyacinths in the middle of the season, and tall alliums can add a final touch well into late spring. By picking a mix of bulbs, you can enjoy flowers from late winter to early summer. As you tidy your garden this October, take a little time to plant these small treasures. A bit of effort now will bring you a beautiful and easy reward next spring.