This article series will take a look at some perennials that bloom year after year, as opposed to annual plants that only last the current growing season. Above you will see a photo of Crocuses.

PHOTO CREDIT - Calvin Hanson, OurHometown.ca

Cornwall - March 9, 2012 - This article series will take a look at some perennials that bloom year after year, as opposed to annual plants that only last the current growing season.

Gardens will soon have colourful spring flowers again; certainly something to look forward to. Many gardens have already started to show signs of activity after several bleak winter months. Bulbs that have been dormant in the soil over the winter are commencing to put up greenery as the snow gradually melts and the temperatures flip-flop back and forth.

Some of the first wave of flowers to catch our attention will be crocuses, snowdrops, daffodils, narcissus, hyacinths, jonquils, and scillas.

Looking at the height of these plants, it’s amazing how their bulbs generate enough energy, not only to sprout and put stems up to the surface, but they keep growing taller above the ground eventually producing a flower. How deep are the bulbs planted? Generally, crocus and grape hyacinth are planted 3.5 inches from the soil surface; snowdrops and scilla are 4.5 inches; hyacinth 5.5 inches; and daffodils about 6 inches.

Planning the layout of a garden is fun. Planting several bulbs of the same type in a clump can provide a much stronger floral presentation. A clustered mass of crocuses or daffodils has a greater visual impact on the viewer. In a large garden, several clumps evenly spaced out will make quite a display.

Fall is the time to plant bulbs that will produce these early spring flower varieties. They should continue to grow each year.

Daffodils

Assorted Daffodils

Paper White Narcissus

Scilla