Planting Guide

Welcome to our planting guide. This is a general guide for most soil conditions.

Autumn
Spring

Autumn

Allium

Grow in fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Ursinum is suitable for shade to semi shade. Planting depth is around 5 to15 cm deep depending on the variety. The smaller varieties allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Allium

Autumn Flowering Crocus

Autumn Crocus

Autumn crocus like gritty, poor to moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun plant around 8-10 cm deep allow 75-100 per sq meter.

Colchicum

Plant in deep, fertile, soil that is well drained that will not dry out, in full sun. Plant around 10 cm deep. Plant around 30 to 40 per sq meter

Sternbergia

Requires excellent drainage, protect from strong winds, they have a dislike of warm dry summers. They like a well drained chalky soil in full sun.

Crocus

Large Flowering

Dutch Crocus prefer gritty, poor to moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun plant around 8-10 cm deep allow 75-100 per sq meter.

Spring Flowering

Crocus Species like gritty, poor to moderately fertile, well drained soil in full sun plant around 8-10 cm deep allow 75-100 per sq meter.

Daffodils & Narcissi

Daffodils and Narcissi are suitable for planting in the boarder or in containers; they can be naturalized in the woodland garden or grass. If planting Narcissi in grass or light soil plant slightly deeper. They prefer full sun to partial shade. Allow around 10-15 cm deep allow around 50-60 bulbs per sq meter for the dwarf varieties around 75-100 per sq meter they will tolerate most soils put prefer moderately fertile, to slightly alkaline soil that is well drained and moist during the growing season.

If planted in pots they prefer cool conditions, if they get too warm it could cause the flower buds to die off. Pseudo and Cyclamineus varieties delay cutting until seed has dispersed.

Water later flowering varieties in dry spring weather as they are prone to non flowering if left to dry.

Dead head as soon as the flowers begin to fade, and leave the foliage to die back naturally for at least six weeks. Apply high potash fertilizer during the growing period, this can be stopped once the flowering has finished this will help promote the flower storage for the following year. Lift and divide the clumps if flowering is sparse of congested.

Hyacinths

Plant outdoors around 10cm deep and around 10cm apart. They prefer well-drained, moderate fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. They have a dislike of winter wet, if grown in pots outdoors provide some protection and grit to the soil.

Bedding

Indoor Flowering Bulbs

Amaryllis Hippeastrum

Plant in loam based potting compost JI No.2. Plant the bulb with the neck and shoulders just above the surface. Place in dappled light or full sun, water sparingly until in growth, you can provide base heat to quicken the process. Feed around every two weeks with a good balanced fertilizer. After flowering remove the flower stem and reduce the water as the leaves begin to die back. When dormant leave in the pot (they hate root disturbance) place in a shed garage or greenhouse to rest, repeat this process when ready to grow again. They can be re potted around every three to five years.

Narcissi

For indoors planting plant in a good compost JI2 with the tops out of the soil, place in a dark place for a couple of weeks to allow the roots to develop, once established bring into the light in a cool room, if the temperature is to high they will bolt and become very long, they can be grown in pebbles, add water to just below the top of the pebbles. Place the Narcissi so they are almost touching and a few more pebbles to slightly cover around half way up the bulb. It is important the base of the Narcissi do not come into contact with the water to prevent mold and rot.

Place the Narcissi in a cool dark place to help establish the root growth, maintain the water level to just below the top pebbles. After a couple of weeks check the root system, if the bulbs feel rooted they can be placed in a light spot but not direct sunlight.

If they are kept in cool conditions they will last longer, this will also help prevent them from getting long and flopping.

Prepared Hyacinths

Plant with the tips of the bulbs just showing through the compost, use a loam-based potting compost JI No.2, you can use bulb fibre (please do not use peat based compost). The pots will need drainage holes; they need to be kept in a cool dark place with a temperature of no more than 45F for around 8-12 weeks to will allow the roots to develop.

When the shoots are around 2.5 to 5 cm high gradually increase the light and temperature, if they are brought out into the light and warmth too soon they can produce elongated leaves and weak flowers. It is important not to get any water on the shoots as this can cause the flower to rot. Avoid water logging the compost, damp conditions together with poor drainage can cause rot and fungal diseases. When flowering is finished they can be planted out in the garden.

Iris

Grow in moderately fertile well-drained, neutral or slightly acidic or alkaline soil in full sun to light dappled shade. Plant around 10 cm deep and allow around 75-100 per square meter.

Lilium \ Lily

Lilium should be planted on receipt; if it is not possible to plant they should be kept in cool conditions. Most Lilium require full sun for most of the day but will take dappled shade for part of the day (see list below for shade loving varieties) A well drained sandy rich soil with a little added humus is ideal. Heavy soil can be lightened with course sand or light grit.

Lilium should be planted around 17-20 cm deep and around 30 – 40 cm apart. Trumpet and Oriental Varieties plant around 20-25 cm for extra protection. You can plant the Lilium slightly tipped to avoid water getting inside. You can add a little bone meal to the soil. Pack the soil well around the bulb and water freely this will help the soil to settle and prevent air pockets.

Lilium will not usually require daily watering, but if you do water make sure the water gets to the bulb. Avoid over watering as this will rot the bulb. You can feed the bulbs with a well balanced fertilizer especially high in potash, while in flower and as the growth dies back to help keep the bulb healthy. It is important to stop feeding after this time.

Lilium grown in containers should be planted around 15 cm deep allow around 10-15 cm of soil above the bulb. Use JI No.2. Feed regularly with a good balanced fertilizer. Do not let bulbs get below freezing. When cutting the stems it is important to leave at least one third, this will help the bulb mature properly as the stem dies.

Botrytis is a fungal disease; this affects the leaves it is usually caused by excessive moisture and warm temperatures. The first sign of this is usually brown spots on the leaves, if left untreated the whole plant can decay. In the early stages you should remove the leaves, it is advisable to spray do this only when the leaves are dry for best results. You can use a copper spray, or you could use 1tbsp of baking soda per gallon of water. The disease is not carried by the bulb so it will not affect the growing the following years.

Blue mold – Lilium have high sugar content and bruising or indeed any injury can cause a penicillin mould to form on the injured part. It may look undesirable but this is harmless to the bulb and can be carefully removed. You can dust the bulb with a fungicide and plant as usual.

Virus is usually transmitted by aphids the following is a list of possible virus infection; mottling and flecking of the leaves, reduction of plant size and height, distorted growth, colour breaking in flowers. If Lilium show severe infection they should be destroyed to control this as soon as possible. It is important to try and control aphid infections.

Lily beetle is becoming more of a problem, you should use a systemic insecticide, drench the entire plant, and you should use a soil insecticide and drench the entire area to kill the mature larvae that live just under the soil surface in winter. Avoid moving infected soil to other sites.

Longiflorum – Lime tolerant
Oriental – Ericaceous
Species – Most soil conditions
Trumpet – Lime tolerant

Longiflorum Lilies

Plant on receipt, if it is not possible they should be kept in cool conditions. Most Lilium require full sun but will take dappled shade. A well drained sandy rich soil with a little added humus is ideal. Heavy soil can be lightened with course sand or light grit. Lilium should be planted around 17-20 cm deep and around 30 – 40 cm apart. Trumpet and Oriental Varieties plant around 20-25 cm for extra protection. Feed with high potash fertilizer.

Oriental Lilies

Species Lilies

Trumpet Lilies

Miscellaneous Bulbs

Anemone

Blanda Group well drained, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Good for woodland planting. Plant around 5-8 cm deep. Allow around 100 per sq meter

Coronaria Group they prefer a light sandy soil in full sun, they like a dry period after flowering. Plant 5-8 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Nemerosa prefer moist well drained humus rich soil sun to partial shade. Good for woodland planting. Plant them just below the surface.

Arum

Grow in well drained humus-rich soil sun to partial shade. Italicum is good for woodland planting. Plant around 10-15 cm deep.

Brodiaea

Well drained, light fertile sandy loam, full sun to partial shade. Water well when in growth, keep dry when dormant. Plant around 8 cm deep. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter

Camassia

Plant in full sun to partial shade; prefer moist but well drained humus rich soil that does not become waterlogged. Excellent cut flower very good for wild meadows. Quamash plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter. For the larger varieties allow around 50-75 per sq meter.

Chionodoxa

Plant in well drained soil. Plant in full sun to partial shade. They self seed freely. Plant around 8 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Cyclamen

Cilicium, Coum and Hederifolium grow in moderately fertile humus rich well drained soil, in partial shade, under trees near shrubs or a wall, to avoid excess moisture. Plant around 3 cm deep. They like a little leaf mould after the leaf dies back.

Persicum is not frost hardy so special care needs to be taken, this variety makes a good houseplant. Plant around 2-2.5 cm deep

Eranthis

Grow in fertile humus rich soil that does not dry out in summer, plant in full sun to partial shade, do not allow the tubers to dry out as they can become difficult to establish. Eranthis are excellent for woodland planting. Plant around 5 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Eremurus (Foxtail Lilies)

Grow in fertile, sandy well drained loam in full sun. They need winter cold to induce flowering, young growth is frost tender. If mulching in winter try to avoid the crown, they will need support in exposed sites. Plant them just below the surface around 2-2.5 cm deep. Allow around 10-20 per sq meter.

They need protection from cold drying winds, and in dry conditions will need plenty of water,

Erythronium

Plant in fertile humus rich well drained soil that does not dry out. Erythronium prefer dappled shade. Excellent for woodland planting. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter. Do not store, Erythroniums should be planted on receipt and not allowed to dry out.

Freesias

Plant indoors in JI No.2 loam compost with added grit, in the greenhouse shade from the sun and keep moist until established, once in growth provide full light and good ventilation and water freely, provide a good balanced fertilizer weekly when the buds appear. After flowering reduce the watering when dry store the corms for re planting.

Fritillaria

Imperials – Persica and Pontica and Verticillata, grow in full sun fertile well drained soil. Plant around four time there depth. Plant Imperials tilted to avoid the water getting inside and rotting off the bulb. Allow around 10-20 per sq meter.

Meleagris need humus rich soil that is not allowed to dry out plant in full sun to partial shade. Prefer damp meadow or woodland conditions, they enjoy cool damp summers. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter.

Elwesii, Michailowski and Pontica like fertile, well drained soil, plant in full sun or light shade. They do not like wet conditions. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter.

Gladioli

Plant in fertile well drained soil in full sun, adding grit or sharp sand will aid drainage. When the flower spikes appear water every couple of weeks with a high potash fertilizer. In warm areas they can be left in the ground. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 25-50 per sq meter

Ipheion

Grow in moderately fertile humus rich soil, they like a moist position in full sun, they may need protection from frost. They are good companions for planting under leafy perennials. Plant around 8 cm. Allow 50-100 per sq meter.

Ixias

Moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun, better planted near a wall. Plant around 8-10 cm deep. Allow around 50-100 per sq meter.

Leucojum

Plant in moist, well drained soil plant in full sun. Aestivum prefers humus rich soil that is reliably moist. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 25-50 per sq meter.

Muscari

Plant in moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun, they will take partial dappled shade. Lift and divide congested clumps when flowering are sparse. Plant around 10 cm deep.

Ornithogalum

Plant in moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 25-50 per sq meter. Nutans and Umbellatum can be grown in dappled shade and are suitable for woodland conditions, they can become invasive. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 50-100 per sq meter

Puschkinia

Grow in well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Ranunculus

Plant in full sun in fertile humus rich moist soil, plant claws facing downwards. Plant around 10 cm deep with spacing of around 8 cm. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter. Soak them for a few hours to give them the best start, if growing in pots plant 3 to a litre pot.

Scilla

Plant in fertile humus rich well drained soil, prefer full sun but will take dappled shade. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Snowdrops

Grow in moist well drained humus rich soil that does not dry out in summer, they prefer partial shade. Lift and divide congested clumps when flowering becomes sparse. Plant around 8-10 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Sparaxis

Grow in well drained soil, they need full sun. Plant around 7.5cm deep. Allow around 50-100 per sq meter. Mulch in winter.

Zantedeschia

Plant in humus rich moist soil in full sun; provide winter mulch for especially in frost prone areas. Aethiopica can be grown as a marginal aquatic, if growing in a basket use heavy loam based aquatic soil, place in water up to 30 cm deep.

Tulips

Darwin Hybrid

Plant in fertile well drained soil in full sun, dwarf tulips like gritty soils, all tulips dislike excessive wet conditions, Plant tulips around 10-15 cm deep and allow around 50-60 per sq meter, Once they finish flowering dead head as soon as possible to prevent the seeds from growing, if left it will affect the flower production. Darwin Hybrid, Tulipa, Kaufmanniana and Griegii varieties can be left in the ground for a few years. For other varieties once the leaves have died down lift and clean, and remove the offsets, and allow them to ripen in a shed or greenhouse, you can replant the larger bulbs the following autumn, smaller offsets can be planted in a nursery bed to mature. Bulb rot may affect tulips planted in poorly drained soil. Aphids can carry virus from variety to variety. Apply high potash fertilizer during the growing period, this can be stopped once flowering has started, this will help promote the flower storage for the following year.

Double Early

Double Late

Fosteriana

Fringed

Greigii

Kaufmanniana

Lily Flowered

Multi-Headed

Parrot

Single Early

Single Late

Triumph

Tulipa

Viridiflora

Spring

Begonias

Plant in fertile humus rich soil when the chance of frost has passed; Begonias prefer light shade but will tolerate light sun they do not like full sun as this can cause them to dry out and the buds to drop, Allow the first frost to hit the begonias, then lift and cut of the foliage allow to dry in frost free conditions, you can dust with fungicide and store until the following spring. You can start the begonias off before planting outside in shallow boxes of peat or sand. Plant around 5-10 cm deep.

Double Begonias

Small Flowering Begonias

Trailing/Cascade Begonias

Dahlias

Plant in humus rich fertile well drained soil in full sun, Dahlias like a high nitrogen fertilizer weekly in the early part of summer, as the flowers appear change to a high potash fertilizer this will help maintain good flower production, as the flowers fade remove to prolong the flowering period, it is also important to pinch out the Dahlias from the growing point, this will produce a more bushy plant.

Allow the frost to turn the foliage black, and then cut back to around 15 cm, lift the tubers remove excess soil and place upside down on a suitable surface, in frost free conditions and allow to dry naturally. You can dust with a fungicide when dry then place the dry tubers in boxes of either dry sand or peat to over winter you will need to check occasionally for fungal infection and cut out any damaged tissue the retreat with fungicide. In warm areas you can leave Dahlias in the ground over winter, plant to a depth of around 15-20 cm and provide deep winter mulch. You can start the dahlias off before planting outside in shallow boxes of peat or sand.

Bishop Collection

Plant in humus rich fertile well drained soil in full sun to semi shade. Dahlias like a high nitrogen fertilizer weekly in the early part of summer, as the flowers appear change to a high potash fertilizer this will help maintain good flower production, as the flowers fade remove to prolong the flowering period, it is also important to pinch out the Dahlias from the growing point, this will produce a more bushy plant. Plant dahlias around 15 cm deep with a spacing of around 45 cm.

Cactus

Classic Collection

Decorative

Gallery Collection

Karma Collection

Pompon and Ball

Star Dahlias

Ferns and Grasses

Plant in humus rich moist well drained soil. They like a little added grit and prefer partial shade

Ferns and Grasses

Ferns are a wide group from small to large varieties; they like partial to full shade and prefer moist soils. Planting distance varies from 40 to 120 cm depending on the variety .

Grasses like sun to partial shade give them dry to moist conditions they look stunning in the summer months and in winter when the frost settles on the brown stems give a mysterious look to the border. Planting distance varies from 60-120 cm depending on the variety.

Gladioli

Large Flowering Gladioli

Small Flowering

Hardy Perennial Plants

Acanthus

Plant in any garden soil, they do like fertile well drained soil, and dislike heavy poorly drained soil. Plant in full sun or partial shade. They need plenty of space and do not like to be disturbed, cut back near to ground level at the end of the season.

Achillea

Plant in moist well drained soil in full sun, they will tolerate most soil conditions. They make excellent cut flowers and for drying in winter, they will withstand dry conditions but in exposed areas may need staking.

Aconitum

Plant in moist fertile soil in partial shade they will tolerate most soils and sun,. They are good for cutting but all parts are poisonous, so caution is needed.

Agapanthus

Plant in moist well drained soil in full sun. in frost prone areas provide a good mulch in winter. Apply a well balance fertilizer during the flowering period.

Agastache

Plant in well drained fertile soil, they like a sunny position, provide mulch in winter

Alchemilla

Plant in moist humus rich soil in full sun of partial shade, ideal for the wild garden and excellent ground cover plant. Mollis self seeds freely, cut back as soon as flowering is finished to ground level.

Anchusa

Plant in moist well drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. They do not tolerate water logged soil and winter wet. Dead head after the first flush of flowering this will help to encourage a second flush,

Anemone

Plant in moist fertile humus rich soil in sun or partial shade. They do not like disturbance. It is advisable to leave the stems on after flowering to provide a little winter protection. Mulch in winter. Divide the clumps in the spring.

Angelica

Plant in moist fertile soil, sun or partial shade. They make excellent border plants and can be grown in woodland conditions and near water.

Aquilegia

Plant in moist fertile soil that is well drained in sun or partial shade.

Aster

Plant in well cultivated fertile soil in sun or partial shade, they may need dividing every few years this will help maintain there vigour and flower quality.

Astrantia

Plant in moist, fertile humus rich soil in sun or partial shade. They are ideal plants for the woodland garden and moist areas, in dry weather they will require watering to prevent drying out. As they self seed freely if not dead headed after flowering. Major varieties tolerate dryer conditions.

Baptisia

Baptisia can be a little slow to start but once established is worth the wait, plant in full sun in deep rich soil that is slightly acidic, they are drought tolerant but like any plant they like some moisture. Fertilize in early spring or use a slow release fertilizer that is well balanced.

A light trim after flowering will help it keep it’s and stop it going floppy, the seed heads are attractive. Plant around 7 cm deep.

Brunnera

Plant in moderately fertile humus rich soil that is well drained, they prefer shade and a cool site.

Campanula

Campanulas need various growing conditions Lactiflora and Punctata varieties like fertile neutral to alkaline soil in sun or partial shade, the colour holds better in shade. If you cut back after flowering it will provide a second smaller flush of flowers later in the season, this also prevents self seeding.

Canna

Plant in full sun in fertile soil, in dry weather water regularly and provide a balanced fertilizer, Dead heading will help promote continuous flowering. Only plant outdoors when the chance of frost has gone, they can be started in to growth indoors around March, then planted outside. After flowering allow the frost to turn the foliage black, lift the rhizomes clean and store in barley moist peat, in frost free conditions.

Convallaria

Plant in moist fertile humus rich soil in full or partial shade; provide a top dressing in the autumn. They are excellent for the wild or woodland garden and provide excellent ground cover

Cosmos

Plant in moderate fertile moist soil that is well drained in full sun. Provide mulch in very cold areas. In frost prone areas it may be necessary to lift the tubers and store them in barley moist peat.

Delphinium

Plant in fertile well drained soil in full sun, provide shelter from strong winds, most delphiniums will need staking. To produce good flower spikes thin the shoots. Keep watered when in growth and apply fertilizer every two to three weeks. Cut the flower stalks back to small side shoots as they finish. Cut all growth back in winter to ground level. Lift and divide the clumps every few years and replant the vigorous sections only.

Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)

Moist, fertile humus rich soil, slightly alkaline ideal for shade, Spectabilis will grow in sun but will need moist soil.

Dodecatheon

Plant in moist humus rich soil that is well drained in sun or partial shade, they will need plenty of moisture during the growing season.

Echinacea

Plant in well drained humus rich soil in full sun, they will take some shade. Cutting the flowers as they fade will promote further flowering. Provide a good balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks. Cut the stems to ground level at the end of the season.

Echinops

Plant in well drained soil in full sun or partial shade, they will grow in poor soil. If drying the flowers they should be cut before they fully open, the stems and leaves contain spines.

Eryngium

Plant in dry soil that is poor to moderately fertile, they do not like winter wet. After flowering cut back to ground level

Eupatorium

Plant in moist, alkaline soil in partial shade. Protect from frost as this may damage new growth.

Euphorbia

Plant in moist humus rich soil that is well drained and light, in full sun to dappled shade

Geranium

Plant in moist moderately fertile soil that is well drained in full sun or partial shade, but they will tolerate most soils. Remove the spent flower stems to promote new growth during the flowering season, apply a well balance fertilizer

Helenium

Plant in moist fertile soil that is well drained, in full sun, dead head as soon as the flower fades to prolong flowering period. Every few years lift the clumps and divide and replant the vigorous sections.

Helleborus

Plant in neutral to alkaline soil in dapple shade, although they will tolerate a range of soils. Provide leaf mould or compost when planting. They dislike dry or waterlogged soils, and like shelter from strong cold winds.

Hemerocallis

Plant in moist fertile soil that is well drained in full sun, apply a well balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks, mulch in late autumn,. Dry conditions and too much shade can affect the flowering. Lift and divide every two to three years.

Heuchera

Plant in moist fertile neutral soil that is well drained in sun or partial shade. Provide a winter mulch to crown, the clumps should be lifted and divided every few years.

Hosta

Plant in moist fertile soil that is well drained, they like shelter from cold drying winds and prefer full or partial shade. Hostas dislike drought and like mulch in spring to conserve the moisture. Dead head the faded flower spikes. Add some compost to the soil before planting.

Iris

Germanica iris like well drained fertile neutral to light acid soil in full sun. Siberica iris like well drained neutral to slightly acid soil if full sun or partial shade. Most iris need long hot summers to thrive and flower well, plant near to the surface with the top part uncovered.

Jasione

Jasione plant in moderately fertile; well drained sandy soil, that retains a little moisture, they do not like to be constantly wet, plant in full sun, they will tolerate a little light shade. Dead head spent flowers. Plant around 7 cm deep

Kniphofia

Plant in deep, fertile, humus rich soil that is moist and well drained, in full sun or partial shade, they like sandy soils. Water in dry weather and remove the flower spikes in the autumn. Provide mulch in winter

Lavandula

Plant in moderately fertile soil that is well drained in full sun. They are ideal for the border and make excellent low hedges. The flowers can be dried the flowers should be cut before fully open. Keep well trimmed to help keep the shape and prevent the stems becoming too woody

Leucanthemum

Plant in moderately fertile soil that is well drained, in full sun or partial shade

Liatris

Plant in light, moderately fertile, moist soil that is well drained in full sun. They dislike heavy wet soils and may rot. Water in dry conditions and remove the flower spikes when faded.

Lobelia

Plant in fertile moist soil in full sun or semi shade; provide a high potash fertilizer every couple of weeks.

Lupinus

Plant in light moderately fertile sandy soil or slightly acid soil that is well drained in full sun or partial shade. cover the crowns in winter in frost prone areas,. Remove the flower spikes as soon as the flowers fade.

Monarda

Plant in moderately fertile to humus rich soil, that is well drained, Plant in full sun to partial shade. They do not like to dry out in summer and need protection from winter wet.

Nepeta

Will take any well drained soil, plant in full sun or partial shade, they do not like heavy or shallow soils which remain wet in winter. Dead head regularly to help promote prolonged flowering, only cut the stems down when the new shoots appear in the spring this will provide winter protection.

Paeonia

Plant in deep fertile humus rich soil that is moist but well drained in full sun or partial shade. They dislike the early morning sun shining on them, before planting dig deep and add plenty of leaf mould or compost. The crown should be planted around 2-3 cm below the ground, they need to settle and should be left undisturbed. Provide some mulch in the spring and water in dry weather, dead head as soon as the flower fades and feed with a general fertilizer in summer. In the autumn cut the stems down to ground level.

Papaver

Plant in deep fertile well drained soil in full sun. Once the first flush is over cut back hard to provide a second later flush. After flowering cut down to ground level. Best planted at the back of the border and may need staking.

Penstemon

Plant in fertile well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. In frost prone areas protect with mulch. If you do not want seed dead head as soon as flowers fade this will help maintain a good plant.

Phlox

Plant in moist fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. The flower colour is best if grown in light shade. Provide a little mulch in spring and water when dry in summer. When flowering is finished cut down to around 2-5 cm from ground level.

Polygonatum

Plant in moist humus rich fertile soil that is well drained in full sun or partial shade. They are excellent for woodland planting and shady borders. Add a little compost at planting and water during dry spells. Cut the stems back in autumn.

Primula

Plant in humus rich soil that is neutral to acid or peaty plant in partial shade. They will tolerate sun if not allowed to dry out.

Pulmonaria

Plant in moist humus rich fertile soil that does not get waterlogged they like full or partial shade. Water in dry weather. Lift and divide the clumps every few years.

Rudbeckia

Plant in moderately fertile heavy soil that is well drained in full sun or partial shade Fulgida is more drought tolerant. Cut the flower stems once the flower fade. Cut back to ground level in the autumn.

Salvia

Plant in moderately fertile humus rich moist soil that is well drained in full sun to light shade, they do not like excessive winter wet and like shelter from cold drying winds.

Scabiosa

Plant in moderate fertile neutral to slightly alkaline soil that is well drained in full sun. They dislike winter wet. Divide and replant every few years in new soil. Dead head to prolong flowering.

Sidalcea

Plant in moderately fertile slightly neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. They will grow in most soil conditions except sandy dry soil, they do not flower well in shade. Cut the stems down after flowering to ground level to help maintain the number of stems for the following year.

Thalictrum

Plant in moist humus rich soil in partial shade. They may need staking

Tiarella

Plant in moist humus rich soil, they prefer deep to partial shade, protect from excessive winter wet. They make excellent ground cover plants and are ideal in the woodland border

Tricyrtis

Plant in moist well drained humus rich soil in deep or partial shade. in cold areas grow in a warm position but not sunny to encourage flowering before first frost. Provide a good mulch in winter. If the soil dries out in summer it may affect the foliage, provide a good mulch in the spring to help combat this.

Verbascum

Plant in alkaline, poor to well drained soil in full sun. Protect from winter wet.

Verbena

Plant in moist well drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. Provide mulch in winter especially in frost prone areas.

Veronica

Grow in moderately fertile, moist loamy soil that is well drained, in full sun to partial shade.

Indoor Flowering Bulbs

Amaryllis Hippeastrum

Lilium \ Lily

Longiflorum – Lime tolerant
Oriental – Ericaceous
Species – Most soil conditions
Trumpet – Lime tolerant

Asiatic Lilies

Longiflorum Lilies

Orienpet Lilies

Oriental Lilies

Species Lilies

Trumpet Lilies

Miscellaneous Bulbs

Acidanthera (Callianthus)

Well drained soil in full sun, it is important to provide a warm sunny site, in cold areas they may fail to flower. They need to be lifted before the frost and treat as with gladioli. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 50 per sq meter.

Allium

Grow in fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Planting depth is around 10 cm deep, allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Alstroemeria

Plant in moist, well drained fertile, soil in sun or partial shade. Take care when handling not to break the brittle side shoots. Alstroemeria should be planted on receipt. Mulch for the first couple of years especially in frost prone areas and leave undisturbed to form clumps, they can take a year or two to establish.

Amaryllis Belladonna

Plant in moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun; the leaves appear first then die back in early summer; the flower stem appears around five to six weeks later. After flowering remove the stem and provide the crown with good winter mulch.

Anemone

Blanda Group well drained, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Good for woodland planting. Plant around 5-8 cm deep. Allow around 100 per sq meter

Coronaria Group they prefer a light sandy soil in full sun, they like a dry period after flowering. Plant 5-8 cm deep. Allow around 75-100 per sq meter.

Nemerosa prefer moist well drained humus rich soil sun to partial shade. Good for woodland planting. Plant them just below the surface.

Arum

Grow in well darined humus rich-soil, sun to partical shade. Italicum is good for woodland planting. Plant around 10-15cm deep.

Babiana

Deep rich soil that is light and well drained in full sun. Plant 20 cm deep.

Bessera

Plant in well drained soil in full sun. Allow the corms to be dry and dormant in the winter Plant around 6-8 cm deep. Allow around 25-50 per sq meter.

Brodiaea (Triteleia)

Well drained, light fertile sandy loam, full sun to partial shade. Water well when in growth, keep dry when dormant. Plant around 8 cm deep. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter

Crinum

Plant in deep fertile humus rich moist soil, which is well drained in full sun Crinum prefer a south facing position. Provide mulch in winter. Plant around 15 cm deep with the top at the surface.

Crocosmia

Plant in moderately fertile humus rich, moist soil that is well drained, they will tolerate full sun or partial shade. You will need to lift and divide congested clumps. Plant around 8-10 cm deep. Allow around 50-75 per sq meter.

Curcuma

Indoor flowering, plant in fertile, moist well drained soil, can be planted outside in summer they are frost tender and will need to be brought in doors for winter. Feed with a liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks.

Cyclamen

Persicum is not frost hardy so special care needs to be taken, this variety makes a good houseplant. Plant around 2-2.5 cm deep

Dichelostema

Plant in well drained soil in full sun. Plant around 10 cm deep.

Eremurus (Foxtail Lilies)

Grow in fertile, sandy well drained loam in full sun. They need winter cold to induce flowering, young growth is frost tender. If mulching in winter try and avoid the crown, they will need support in exposed sites. Plant them just below the surface around 2-2.5 cm deep. Allow around 10-20 per sq meter.

They need protection from cold drying winds, and in dry conditions will need plenty of water.

Eucomis

Plant in full sun in fertile humus rich soil that is well drained, provide mulch in severe winters. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 20-30 per sq meter.

Ferraria Tigiridia

Plant in well drained fertile sandy soil in full sun, provide mulch over winter in frost prone areas or lift the bulbs in autumn and store in sand. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 75 per sq meter.

Freesias

Galtonia

Plant in fertile, well drained soil that is moist in the spring and summer months in full sun. Cut off the flower spikes when they have finished and cover the crown with a thick mulch of leaf mould. Plant around 10-15 cm deep. Allow around 30 per sq meter.

Gloriosa

Plant in soil based compost JI No.2 is also very good. Gloriosa need heat to develop the shoots & roots place in a conservatory or greenhouse, water sparingly at first, then water regularly and feed weekly when in growth, after flowering slow the watering down and then stop and allow to dry out, leave them in the pots in a warm place. In very warm areas they can be grown outdoors in summer but must be brought back inside they are tender plants.

Gloriosa are twining plants and will need support, they like a large deep pot. Gloriosa should only be planted a few centimeres deep if you are unsure which is the top plant the tubers horizontally. All parts of the plant espcially the tubers are poisonous and should never be eaten.

Hedychium

Plant in humus rich, moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade, protect from cold winds, and provide deep mulch in frost prone areas. Cut the flower stems when finished flowering. Plant around 5-8 cm deep.

Hymenocallis

Plant in moderately fertile moist well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from excessive wet when dormant. They prefer planting near a warm sunny wall. Plant around 5 cm deep

Ixias

Moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun, better planted near a wall. Plant around 8-10 cm deep. Allow around 50-100 per sq meter.

Nerine

Plant in well drained soil in full sun. Provide mulch in frost prone areas. Plant close to the surface with the to of the bulb above, if planted to deep they can fail to flower.

Ornithogalum

Plant in moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 25-50 per sq meter.

for Thyrsoides plant around 7.5 cms deep and allow 50-75 per sq meter.

Oxalis

Plant in moderate fertile humus rich well drained soil in full sun. Plant around 10 cm deep. Allow around 75 per sq meter.

Polianthes

Plant in moderately fertile well drained soil in full sun. It is advisable to lift the tubers before the first frost and store in sand. Plant around 10 cm deep.

Ranunculus

Sparaxis

Grow in well drained soil, they need full sun. Plant around 7.5cm deep. Allow around 50-100 per sq meter. Mulch in winter

Trillium

Plant in moist but well drained, humus rich soil. They prefer acid to neutral soil, although they will tolerate alkaline soil. They prefer deep or partial shade, mulch with leaf mould in winter. Plant around 5-8 cm deep.

Tropaeolum

Plant in moderately fertile soil that is well drained in full sun. Plant around 5 cm deep.

Tulbaghia

Plant in well drained moderately fertile, humus rich soil in full sun. The flowers are fragrant and are carried on leafless stems. They have a good drought resistance do not divide the clumps for several years. Plant around 5 cm deep.

Narcissi

Plant the spring flowering Narcissi outdoors in May. For indoors planting plant in a good compost JI2 with the tops out of the soil, place in a dark place for a couple of weeks to allow the roots to develop, once established bring into the light in a cool room, if the temperature is to high they will bolt and become very long, they can be grown in pebbles, add water to just below the top of the pebbles. Place the Narcissi so they are almost touching and a few more pebbles to slightly cove around half way up the bulb. It is important the base of the narcissi do not come into contact with the water to prevent mold and rot.

If they are kept in cool conditions they will last longer, this will also help prevent them from getting long and flopping.

Trees & Shrubs

Buddleja and Caryopteris plant in fertile, well drained soil they prefer full sun.

Buxus plant in any fertile well drained soil, prefer partial shade, but will tolerate full sun, when combined with dry conditions it may promote dull foliage colour and scorching. Keep trimmed in summer.

Cornus plant in fertile, humus rich soil that is neutral to acid and well drained, plant in full sun, cut back the stems in early spring to encourage new red growth.

Fuchsia plant outdoors in moist, well drained fertile soil. Provide a deep winter mulch and shelter from cold drying winds, plant in full sun to partial shade.

Hydrangeia plant in moist, well drained, moderately fertile, humus rich soil, in sun or partial shade.

Lonicera plant in fertile, humus rich soil, in moist but well drained soil in sun. Apply a balance fertilizer regularly when in growth.

Philadelphus plant in any moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. When in growth apply a balanced fertilizer regularly.

Sarcococca plant in fertile, humus rich soil that is moist and well drained, they prefer shade to partial shade if planted in full sun they will need moisture.

Syringa plant in humus rich fertile neutral to alkaline soil that is well drained in full sun. They benefit from regular mulch. Remove the faded flowers on young plants to prevent the fruits from forming.

Trees and Shrubs

This group are quiet diverse in their planting requirements we have included the planting guide with their descriptions. Trees & Shrubs bring height, depth and character to the garden.