Monty Don shares simple hack to enhance bulb growth as autumn is optimal time to start planting
As autumn settles in across the UK, Monty Don has revealed the most crucial task for green-fingered enthusiasts this season: planting spring bulbs.
The British horticulturalist emphasised the importance of this task during the latest episode of BBC Gardeners’ World.
He shared: “We’re at that time of year when planting spring bulbs is the biggest and essential job for the rest of this month and throughout October.”
During the episode, Monty Don shared a surprising tip for enhancing bulb growth: adding grit to compost.
Adding horticultural grit to compost improves drainage, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthier roots.
It also improves soil fertility by creating small pockets that hold air and water, according to experts at Corker Outdoor Living.
Ultimately, this creates a healthier environment for growth Monty explained, as he demonstrated the technique.
Gardeners should look for washed or lime-free horticultural sand, with cheap options including crushed gravel.
Alternatives include pea shingles and decorative stone chippings, which are equally suitable.
The drainage these variations of grit provide is crucial when planting bulbs, as Monty Don demonstrated on the programme.
He used a pot with a large drainage hole at the bottom and smaller side holes, covering the base with a crock.
This technique ensures excess water can escape, preventing waterlogged soil that could lead to bulb rot.
Adequate drainage is essential for healthy root development and overall plant growth.
Monty Don advised planting most spring bulbs now, including daffodils, irises, scillas, and muscari.
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However, he cautioned against planting tulips too early.
The gardening guru also warned about hyacinths, noting they require heat treatment during colder months to bloom.
Don highlighted the benefits of autumn planting, explaining that the warm ground allows roots to establish before winter, giving spring blooms a head start.
It comes as experts at the Middle-Sized Garden have cautioned that forgetting to mulch dahlias this month could stunt their growth or result in their death.