If you want your garden to burst into colour come spring, now’s the time to start underground.

Growing bulbs in winter has become one of my favourite seasonal gardening rituals—there’s something so hopeful about tucking them into the soil and knowing they’re quietly preparing for a grand reveal. 

Winter might seem like a quiet season, but beneath the surface, there’s plenty happening. Getting your bulbs planted now means you’re setting the stage for a spectacular show later. Here’s how to give your bulbs the best start.  

The best bulbs to plant in winter

Spring-flowering bulbs need winter’s chill to thrive. Now’s the time to plant: 

  • Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and ranunculuses – classic choices that never disappoint. 
  • Freesias and Dutch irises – great for fragrance and elegance. 
  • Anemones, sparaxis and tritonias – if you want to add a little drama and shape to your spring beds.

Read more: Growing hyacinths: True blue bulbs

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Get your soil ready 

Start by deciding where and how many bulbs you’d like to plant. A small cluster of 12–15 bulbs packed into half a square metre will give you more impact than scattering them sparsely. 

Soil should be loose and well-draining—bulbs don’t like wet feet. If your garden soil is heavy, add compost and a bit of sand to help improve drainage. Clear away any weeds or grass that could compete with the bulbs for space and nutrients. 

If planting in containers or raised beds, aim for sandy loam, and prep them a week in advance with fertiliser to avoid burning the bulbs. 

Find the right spot

In garden beds: Look for sunny winter spots with good drainage. These will help bulbs settle in and avoid rot. 

In pots: Containers are perfect for small gardens or patios. Keep them in a bright, sheltered area and make sure they don’t dry out completely. For those gardening in Gauteng or similarly dry regions, add water-retaining granules to help lock in moisture. 

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Fun idea: Try a “bulb lasagne” – layering different bulbs like daffodils, tulips and hyacinths by bloom time to get waves of flowers through spring. 

Planting tips

  • Dig a hole that’s two to three times deeper than the bulb’s height. 
  • Add compost or well-rotted manure at the bottom. 
  • Place the bulb with the pointy end up, spaced according to the instructions. 
  • Cover with soil, press down lightly, and give it a good watering.

Keep them happy through winter

Watering:
Consistent moisture is key. In the Western Cape, winter rain usually does the job. In drier parts of the country, aim to water deeply for around 45 minutes every 4–5 days. 

Adding a mulch layer will keep the soil temperature steady and stop weeds from taking over. 

Feeding:
When shoots start to appear in early spring, feed your bulbs with a balanced fertiliser. Avoid those high in nitrogen, which tend to encourage leaves instead of flowers. 

Winter gardening doesn’t have to be all pruning and waiting. With just a bit of planning and care, your bulbs will reward you with a colourful spring that feels well-earned. 

ALSO SEE: GROW BULBS IN A BOWL OF WATER

Grow bulbs in a bowl of water

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