Winter Bulbs UK
Planting bulbs during the UK winter months can still create colour and wildlife value in your garden. Aim for mild spells when the soil is workable (not frozen or waterlogged), and prioritise drainage because UK winters are wet. Hardy choices like snowdrops, winter aconite, crocus, and cyclamen coum settle quickly and bloom in late winter to early spring, even if most bulbs are autumn planted. Tuck them into moist but free-draining ground or pots, enrich with compost, and choose a shady position under trees and shrubs or a bright, full sun spot depending on variety.
Our Range of Winter Flowering Bulbs
Missed autumn planting? You can still brighten borders and pots with winter flowering bulbs that thrive in UK conditions. For instant indoor colour, add prepared hyacinths or amaryllis on a sunny windowsill. Explore options to suit your space, soil, and weather. We have perfect picks for small pots, under trees and shrubs, or bright spots that welcome pollinators back to the garden.
Key Winter Bulbs We Offer
- Snowdrops (Galanthus): classic white blooms that naturalise well; plant “in the green” for faster take.
- Winter aconite (Eranthis): cheerful golden cups that flower in December–February, perfect beneath shrubs.
- Crocus: early nectar for pollinators; compact for lawns, borders, and pots.
- Cyclamen coum: jewel-toned flowers and patterned foliage for dappled shade.
- Daffodils: many tolerate late planting and still produce a show in the first year.
- Tulips: best planted late (November–December) in cool soil; good results even into winter in mild areas.
How to Care for Winter Bulbs
- Site & soil: Choose free-draining spots; improve heavy soils with grit and compost to prevent rot.
- Depth & spacing: Plant 2-3× bulb height deep; allow airflow around stems and leaves.
- Water wisely: Water after planting to settle soil; then only in dry spells, as bulbs are dormant over much of winter.
- Mulch & protect: A light mulch shields from freeze-thaw; remove as signs of growth appear.
- After flowering: Let foliage die back naturally so bulbs store energy for the next growing season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still plant spring flowering bulbs in winter?
Yes. Many spring flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, crocus, and hyacinths can be planted in winter during mild spells; they may flower a bit later in the first year.
Which bulbs are best for shade under trees and shrubs?
Try snowdrops, cyclamen coum, and winter aconite, as they thrive in dappled shade and add early colour beneath trees and shrubs.
What should I plant indoors over winter?
Amaryllis and prepared hyacinths are ideal for indoor colour. Keep compost just moist and place them in bright light away from direct heat.
How do I get the best results if I missed autumn planting?
Buy firm bulbs from Garden Wildlife, plant promptly in free-draining soil or pots, and add a light mulch. Even late plantings help establish displays for next season and beyond.
