How to layer spring bulbs in a pot
If you’re looking for a unique way to show off your favourite flowers this spring, then you should try this fun, easy, and visually rewarding layered planting technique – also called lasagne planting!
Planting bulbs in pots can diversify your garden displays or brighten up your balconies and patios. While you’re looking over your gardening calendar this autumn and planning a new season of growing, planting spring-flowering bulbs is must-do activity
Layering bulbs in a pot is a great way to create a long-lasting lively show of flowers all season long with as many different varieties of bulbs as you like
WHAT IS LAYERED PLANTING
Layered planting is a different way of planting bulbs in your pots or containers. It’s where bulbs are planted in two or more layers in the same pot. The idea is that as the season progresses, the bulbs grow and flower at different times, giving you months of non-stop colourful displays
YOU WILL NEED:
A deep pot or container – you should get 3 layers of bulbs in a 30cm deep pot
Your choice of spring flowering bulbs – in our guide, we've used Tulip Red Riding Hood for the bottom layer, Narcissus Sun Disc for the middle, and a mix of Crocus for the top layer. These bulbs grow at roughly the same rate, so you’ll have a fully packed pot all spring
Horticultural grit and/or crocks
STEP–BY–STEP GUIDE: HOW TO LAYER SPRING BULBS IN A POT
STEP 1: Add horticultural grit or crocks at bottom of your pot – this is to help with drainage and to stop compost falling out of any drainage holes at the bottom. Fill the pot around 3/4s full of compost
STEP 2: Plant the Tulip Red Riding Hood in the centre of the bottom of your pot. Cover this layer with compost, then water
STEP 3: For the second layer, create a ring around the outer edges of the pot with Narcissus Sun Disc bulbs. Again, cover these with soil so that just the tips are showing and water
STEP 4: Finally, sprinkle the top layer with mixed Crocus bulbs. Cover these bulbs with an inch of compost, making sure the tips are poking through slightly
STEP 5: Continue to gently water your bulb pot once planted – the compost should be kept damp, but not wet. Place the pot in a sunny and sheltered spot and watch as it begins to bloom as the season progresses!
OUR GARDENING EXPERT’S TOP TIPS FOR LAYERED PLANTING
Make sure to check the details on your bulb packets for information on when and how to plant and when the bulbs flower so you can plan your combinations correctly
Placing your container on pot feet can help it drain properly
Bulbs can grow around each other, so don’t worry if you think you’ve put a bulb on top of another bulb
Whatever bulbs you choose, make sure to plant the largest and latest flowering bulbs in the deepest layer of your pot, moving to the smallest and earliest as you get to the top
If this is your first-time planting bulbs in layers, start with just 2 layers while you get the hang of it. Don’t worry – your display will still look amazing! But if you’ve got a large pot and you’re feeling confident in your gardening abilities, go for 3 layers
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