Tulips and daffodils have come a long way over the past years – each fall there seems to be an abundance of new varieties to plant. However, if you’re looking to shake things up in your spring flower display, there are some different types of bulbs that you can try, all of which are hardy and planted in the fall. Here are my top picks:
- Allium – you may have seen ornamental onions before – feathery purple globes atop a strong single stem. There are numerous different varieties to choose from that can suit any garden space. ‘Globemaster’ Allium is the king of giant alliums, with flower heads that can be 10” in diameter. If you prefer small and dainty, try ‘Northern Lights’ – a mix of smaller purple, yellow and white flower heads that are short and compact and suitable for a border. Bonus: all allium bulbs are rodent resistant, so no squirrel proofing is needed!
- Frittilaria – although the bulbs can be a bit stinky, these woodland-type flowers will bring a wildflower look to your garden. Varieties can range from tall, single flower spikes with dramatic colours, to smaller single flowers in muted tones. The foliage is grass like and unobtrusive, making them easy to work in around perennials.
- Chionodoxa – also known as ‘Glory of the Snow’. Although many gardeners may talk about crocuses and snowdrops as the early risers, these stunning flowers often have them beat and will provide a burst of colour throughout the last snowy surprises of winter. Available in a range of shades from blue to purple, they are compact and grow well under larger trees or shrubs.
- Siberian Squill – botanical name Scilla siberica. Often confused for bluebells, these small blue flowers spread rapidly and are a great addition for a woodland garden. They are early flowering and can tolerate some shade, so they provide a pop of colour in darker areas of the garden. Due to their spreading nature, some control may be needed to keep them contained, however the bulbs are easily split and given to friends!
- Winter Aconite – botanical name Etanthis hymalis. This late winter bloomer looks like a cross between a tulip and a crocus! Butter yellow blooms, low growing and compact habit make it a great choice for borders. Unique green bracts peek out from under the flowers, so each one looks like it’s wearing a feathery cowl. Don’t be surprised if it blooms while there is still snow on the ground.
This spring, have a look around your garden and decide what type of colour, height and texture you would like to see next year. When bulb shopping time comes around in the fall, take a close look for hidden corners or aisles to find the more unusual and ‘less popular’ varieties. You will be surprised at what is available!
— Heather Rajotte, Guelph- Wellington Master Gardeners
This post was first published in the May 2018 issue of the Puslinch Pioneer.