Perennial bulbs, easy gardening that lasts from season to season
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Stephen Teeuw
- Gardening Tips
- 10 Sept 2024
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483views

What are Perennial Plants?
Perennial plants are a gardener's best friend, returning year after year with little need for fuss or replanting. They can take many forms, from woody shrubs to leafy plants, and even include bulbs. The beauty of perennials is that they are hardy, which means they can withstand the rigours of winter, emerging when conditions are right. Hardy perennial plants are the perfect foundation for those seeking a low-maintenance garden.
Bulbs, in particular, are fascinating examples of perennial plants. They have evolved to store energy during tough conditions, allowing them to survive dormancy and bloom again when the environment is favourable. Spring-flowering bulbs often lie dormant during the hot, dry summer, ready to take advantage of the moisture and cool temperatures of autumn and spring. These remarkable plants will reward you year after year, provided they are given the right conditions.
Our Recommendations for Perennial Bulbs
After decades of growing and observing bulbs, I’ve found the following to be the most reliable flowering perennials in the garden:
While other bulbs may also return year after year, some require a little extra care to thrive. But these stalwarts are tough, dependable, and a delight to see each season.
The Benefits of Planting Perennial Bulbs
- An Investment in Your Garden: When planning a garden, perennial bulbs are a long-term investment. Once planted, they’ll fill your borders year after year, saving you the trouble of replanting every spring.
- A Welcome Surprise: Time has a habit of slipping away, and I often forget exactly what I’ve planted. Then, each spring, the bulbs appear as a joyous reminder, lifting the spirit as they push through the soil.
- Ease of Care: Many perennial bulbs require little to no intervention. Unlike tender plants that need to be lifted and stored, these bulbs can remain in the ground through winter, ready to emerge when the conditions are right.
Bulbs That Don't Typically Return as Perennials
Not all bulbs are equally long-lasting in the garden, and some, like tulips, need a bit more attention.
- Tulips: Most tulip cultivars are best treated as annuals, though species tulips can naturalise and return reliably year after year. For more information on tulips, you can read about them here.
- Hyacinths: These may return, but they often produce smaller, spindly flowers unless the bulbs are large and robust enough.
- Dutch Iris: They can be tricky to coax into blooming for a second season.
- Prepared or Indoor Bulbs: These are often forced to bloom early and may be too exhausted to return in subsequent years.
How to Care for Perennial Bulbs
The secret to success with perennial bulbs is simple, yet vital:
- Good Soil: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil is essential. Don’t forget to mulch, as this helps retain moisture and feeds the soil as it breaks down.
- Leave the Foliage: After the bulbs have finished flowering, let the foliage die back naturally. This process allows the plant to store energy for next year’s blooms.
- Moisture Management: Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged. Bulbs need to stay hydrated, but too much water can cause them to rot.
And that’s it. A little attention and the right conditions will see these marvellous plants come back to life year after year, providing reliable beauty with minimal effort.