Planting Spring Bulbs in October: Tips for Welsh Gardens
October is one of my favourite months in the garden here in South Wales. The air is crisp, leaves are turning, and it’s the perfect time to start thinking ahead to spring. One of the most rewarding jobs this month? Planting spring bulbs.
Daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths will reward you with colour and fragrance when the days start to lengthen, and getting them in the ground now gives them the best chance to establish strong roots before winter.
Here’s how I tackle bulb planting in Glamorgan gardens — and some tips to help your garden shine next spring.
🌱 Choose the Right Bulbs
For South Wales gardens, I usually recommend:
Daffodils – Reliable, hardy, and come in so many varieties.
Tulips – Best in borders or pots; look out for late-flowering types for extra colour.
Crocuses – Perfect for naturalising under trees or in lawns.
Hyacinths – Lovely scent for pots near doors or windows.
When buying, choose firm, healthy bulbs with no signs of mould or soft spots.
📏 Planting Depth & Spacing
A simple rule I follow: plant bulbs about 2–3 times as deep as their height. For example, a daffodil that’s 5cm tall should go roughly 10–15cm into the soil.
Space bulbs so they aren’t overcrowded — most bulbs need a few centimetres between them to grow well.
Point the narrow end of the bulb upwards — that’s where the shoots will emerge.
🧑🌾 Prep the Soil
Good soil is key. Loosen it gently, remove weeds, and add a little compost if it’s tired. If your soil tends to be heavy or waterlogged (common in Glamorgan!), adding grit or well-rotted compost helps drainage — bulbs don’t like sitting in soggy soil over winter.
🌿 Mulch for Protection
After planting, a light layer of mulch helps protect bulbs from frost and keeps moisture levels steady. Leaves, compost, or bark mulch all work well.
🌸 Caring Through Winter
Water bulbs lightly after planting if it’s dry — but avoid overwatering.
If you have pets or wildlife that like to dig, consider placing wire mesh over newly planted areas until shoots emerge.
Leave foliage in place after flowering next spring to let bulbs store energy for the following year.
Need a Helping Hand?
Planting bulbs can be quick and satisfying, but if you’d like a hand with your autumn garden — borders, shrubs, herbs, kitchen gardens, or greenhouses — I’d be delighted to help. I work across Glamorgan and South Wales, and love giving gardens a little extra TLC so they look beautiful year-round.
Happy planting,
Holly x
