September is a pivotal month for any gardener hoping to fill their spring with an explosion of colour. As the summer sun wanes, the ground is still warm, making it the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, crocuses, alliums, and hyacinths. This simple act of planting now is the single best way to ensure a beautiful, low-maintenance display when winter finally fades.

One of the greatest benefits of these bulbs is how self-sufficient they are. Once planted, they require little to no attention. They store all the energy they need to produce a flower in their fleshy bodies. As soon as the conditions are right, they will erupt from the ground, providing an early source of nectar for pollinators and a much-needed splash of vibrant colour to your garden. This makes them a perfect choice for an easy-care garden, as you can simply “plant and forget” until they put on their spectacular show.

The process is straightforward: just dig a hole, pop the bulb in with the pointed side up, and cover it with soil. The general rule of thumb is to plant a bulb at a depth roughly two to three times its height. For example, a two-inch tall bulb should be planted four to six inches deep.

Planting a variety of bulbs can extend the blooming season significantly. Early-blooming crocuses and snowdrops can be followed by daffodils and tulips, with alliums providing a final, majestic flourish. By carefully choosing different types, you can enjoy a continuous procession of blooms from late winter through to early summer.

So, as you tidy up your garden this September, remember to set aside some time to plant these little treasures. It’s a small investment of effort now for a truly magnificent and effortlessly beautiful reward next spring.