Back
How to Plant & Grow
Bulbs in the Green
Bulbs in the green are perfect for beginner gardeners! They’re so-called because they’re sent to you in active growth. This helps them establish faster, guaranteeing you a gorgeous display the following year.
Because their foliage is still intact, many become confused about how to plant and grow bulbs in the green. Follow this guide for easy and fuss-free planting.
What We've Included
What to Plant | How to Plant | Where to Plant | When to Water | What to do once they have finished blooming | Storing Tips | Common Issues | When will they flower? | Inspiration
When to plant Bulbs in the Green
Bulbs in the green will arrive to you in active growth. They may even still have a few flower heads! Because they are in active growth, they should be planted out on arrival or as soon as you can after delivery. This will be in late winter or very early spring.
How to Plant Bulbs in the Green
- Bulbs in the green should be planted in clumps of 3-4 bulbs. Separate them into clumps before planting.
- Plant them up to where the white stops and turns green. This indicates the original planting depth.
- Dig the hole to the same depth and firm them down gently.
- Allow for 6 inches of space between each clump so that they have space to grow and spread.
- Water them once planted, especially if it’s been a bit dry.
- Snip off any flowering stems to help the bulbs concentrate their energy into creating new blooms come the following spring.
Where to Plant Bulbs in the Green
Bulbs in the green usually are blooms that prefer dappled shade, like snowdrops and winter aconites. Plant them under trees or shrubs, places that are typically cooler and can offer shade away from harsh sunlight.
When to Water Bulbs in the Green
Water bulbs in the green well once planted. As they’re growing around spring, they will get sufficient water thanks to the classic British weather! However, if it’s a particularly warm spring, feel free to give them extra water if they’re looking a bit dry.
What to Do Once They Have Finished Blooming
Allow their foliage to die back completely before cutting them back. This allows them to store energy in the bulb, helping to grow a lovely display the following spring.
Storing Tips
There is no need to lift or store bulbs in the green over winter. These are hardy plants, and they need cold conditions to flower in spring. However, if you’re worried or live in a particularly cold part of the country, adding a couple of inches of mulch to the soil can help keep them warm and help them retain moisture over the season.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
One of the most common issues with bulbs in the green is overcrowding. These bulbs naturalise when left to their own devices, meaning they multiply under the ground – giving you a bigger display year after year.
Every 2-3 years, lift the bulbs, separate them, and plant them further apart.
When Will They Flower?
Bulbs in the green are sent to you after they’ve flowered. They will provide colour with their foliage once planted, but it’s doubtful that flowers will appear that same season. You can expect to see them again in late winter and early spring – typically from January to March.
Ready to Shop?
Find some inspiration for your garden