A guide to spring bulbs aftercare.

The British Garden Centres has put together a guide to help with the aftercare of spring bulbs, in light of the glorious spring weather we have had recently!

Gardens, containers and window boxes are covered with the beauty of daffodils, tulips and many other spring bulbs.

As they start to fade, you may be wondering what to do to make sure they are healthy and their stunning displays last.

The British Garden Centres has 72 centres across the UK.

Thanks to the British Garden Centres, here us a step-by-step guide on how to help your spring bulbs after they’ve flowered.

Deadhead: Once the flowers of the spring bulbs have faded it is recommended to remove them by deadheading the flowers. All you have to do is snip off the tired flower heads but leave the stem and foliage, so the bulbs stay strong and are ready to bloom again.

This prevents the plant from using to much energy on seed production and allows it to focus on storing nutrients in the bulb for next year’s growth.

Foliage: One of the most important rules is to leave the foliage until it has completely yellowed and died down.

The green leaves are vital for photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy that is stored in the bulb. So, cutting or tying back the foliage prematurely can weaken the bulb and reduce the ability to produce flowers next year.

Feeding: Bulbs still need nourishment after feeding to replenish their energy ready for next year. Continue watering them regularly and apply a high-potash plant food like tomato feed, every couple of weeks for around six weeks after they have died down.

Tidy: When the foliage has fully died back and yellowed it is recommended that the dead leaves or stems are removed to prevent pests and diseases.

Clearing away the debris also allows room for new plants or seed to bloom in summer.

Plant for summer: Spring bulb beds can be turned into vibrant summer displays after the dead foliage is cleared.

Summer bulbs that can be planted include lilies and dahlias. Or you can sow annual seeds such as cosmos or marigolds.

Leave or lift your bulbs: Some bulbs may need lifting and storing through the year, whilst some can remain in the ground. Store lifted bulbs in a cool, dry place until autumn planting.

Daffodils and crocuses normally do well when left undisturbed in the ground. However, tulips benefit from being lifted after their foliage dies back.

Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres said: “spring flowering bulbs are a joy to behold as they spring to life with colour after the dark, gloomy days of winter. With a little care and attention after they have bloomed, your spring bulbs will not only brighten your garden year after year but also create the perfect foundation for a vibrant, blooming display throughout the seasons.”