Nerine Bulbs

Why should you choose nerine bulbs?

Nerine bulbs are an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of exotic elegance to their autumn garden. With their striking, funnel-shaped blooms and delicate, musky fragrance, nerines offer beauty and sophistication late in the season when many other plants are starting to fade. Their vibrant pinks, whites, and reds create a stunning visual display that brightens any space.

One of the standout qualities of nerine bulbs is their long flowering period, often lasting right up until the first frost. Planted against a south-facing wall or in a sunny spot, they will thrive year after year, rewarding you with reliable, long-lasting blooms. These low-maintenance bulbs are also excellent for cut flowers, bringing a touch of opulence indoors with their enduring beauty.

Nerines are particularly well-suited to pairing with other late-flowering bulbs, adding height and structure to your garden. Their hardiness and ability to withstand various conditions make them a versatile and worthwhile addition to any planting scheme. For those seeking vibrant colour, fragrance, and ease of care, nerine bulbs are an exceptional choice.

Stephen’s nerine bulbs top picks

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. At Peter Nyssen, we offer a wide variety of nerine bulbs to satisfy the needs of any gardening enthusiast. Here are Stephen’s top picks:

• Nerine Bowdenii: Your most common Nerine, but still a striking flower in October.

• Nerine Lipstick: You don’t get much variety in this group so these are interesting bulbs to plant.

How to plant nerine bulbs

Planting nerine bulbs is a straightforward process that rewards you with beautiful, exotic blooms. Follow these steps to ensure your nerines thrive and provide a striking display each autumn:

Choose the right location: Nerines thrive in sunny spots, so plant them in a well-drained location with plenty of direct sunlight. They perform best when planted against a south-facing wall or fence, which provides warmth and protection, helping them bloom later in the season.

Prepare the soil: Nerines prefer well-drained, sandy soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, improve drainage by adding grit or organic matter such as compost. This helps prevent waterlogging, which can cause the bulbs to rot.

Plant the bulbs: Plant nerine bulbs with the neck of the bulb just above the soil surface. Space them about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. For the best display, plant in clusters or groups to create a more impactful, vibrant display.

Water sparingly: After planting, water the bulbs lightly. Nerines are quite drought-tolerant and do not need much watering. Once established, they prefer dry conditions, so be cautious not to overwater.

Mulch and protect: In colder areas, apply a light mulch over the soil in late autumn to help protect the bulbs from frost. While nerines are hardy, this extra layer can help them overwinter more easily in particularly cold regions.

With these simple steps, your nerine bulbs will establish well, and you’ll enjoy their stunning, long-lasting blooms each autumn, adding vibrant colour and beauty to your garden.

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience

• Our bulbs are packaged in compostable, starch-based bags where possible

• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50

• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 

• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs 

When is the best time to plant nerine bulbs?

The best time to plant nerine bulbs is in late spring or early summer after the risk of frost has passed. Nerines need warm soil to establish, so planting them in warmer months ensures they’ll thrive and produce their stunning blooms in autumn.

How deep should I plant nerine bulbs?

Plant nerine bulbs with the neck of the bulb just above the soil surface. Ensure the bulbs are planted 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow space for growth and air circulation. Planting them shallowly helps the bulbs perform their best in well-drained soil.

Do nerine bulbs need a lot of sunlight?

Yes, nerines thrive in full sun. For the best results, plant them in a sunny location, ideally against a south-facing wall or fence where they’ll get plenty of warmth and protection. This will encourage better flowering and stronger plants.

How often should I water nerine bulbs?

Nerines prefer dry conditions once established, so they don’t need frequent watering. Water them lightly after planting, but be careful not to overwater. Once they start growing, reduce watering, especially during their dormant period in the summer.

Can nerine bulbs survive frost?

Nerines are hardy but can be sensitive to severe frost. In colder regions, it’s a good idea to apply a light mulch over the soil in late autumn to help protect the bulbs. In milder climates, they can survive light frosts without issue.

Need more help?

Add a touch of exotic beauty to your garden with our nerine bulbs. Plant them in sunny spots, and they’ll reward you with a burst of colour and elegance, right up to the first frosts. For expert planting tips and care advice, check out our nerine planting guide.