Many gardeners will be enjoying the first growth spurts of the tulips they planted in October, November and December.
The flowers are synonymous with Spring because they are among the first flowering bulbs to add colourful hues to the garden in March.
There is a consensus that tulips can survive on little water, but even when it’s bound to rain, Monty Don recommends giving the flowers extra water to boost their longevity.
Writing on his monthly blog, the gardening guru explained: “Because they have been so passive for months and because April is traditionally so showery, it is easy to overlook the fact that tulips need water once they are growing strongly, so I water those growing pots weekly.
Monty Don recommends an extra dose of water to help tulips last longer
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“This will not affect flowering this year, although it might make the blooms last long, but it will help the foliage which in turn makes a big difference to near year’s bulbs.”
The flowers are ideal for all types of gardens and bedding schemes. Catering to their needs adequately over the next month will ensure strong growth as they emerge from the ground.
The Royal Horticultural Society notes: “In mid to late spring, cup-shaped flowers rise on single stems above wide strap-like green or green-grey leaves.
“Flower stalks emerge from cream-white bulbs covered by a paper brown skin.”
The gardening institution adds: “Tulips grow well in soil rich in organic matter. They like cool moist conditions in spring, with a dry warm summer conditions for their summer ‘rest’ (dormancy).
“Most grow in an open position in full sun, although some tolerate part shade.”
It comes as Monty Don shared the best watering practices to help houseplants thrive during April.
He explained that most houseplant problems stem from the wrong watering routines. Using a misting device, however, could help plant owners dodge the risk of overwatering their plants.
“There are [...] a huge range of plants that can and are grown permanently indoors with a wide range of conditions best suited to them but [...] the biggest mistake people make with them houseplants is to overwater them,” the gardener said.
“In fact, that can be qualified - or refined - by saying most are overwatered at the roots but under-watered in the air.
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Tulips grow well in soil rich in organic matter
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“A coolish spot, out of direct sunlight is likely to be more congenial for all evergreen plants from tropical regions (but no desert cacti and succulents) than a south-facing window still above a radiator.
“Only water when the potting compost is totally dry and then it is best to soak them in a basic for 15 minutes, draining them completely before returning the pot to its position.”
The hack ensures plants receive all the humidity they need without waterlogging the roots, which can cause rot. The practice is most helpful when the central heating is on full blast.
Although the effects of misting are short-lived, the droplets settle on the leaves and slowly evaporate.
