Having just completed planting planting bulbs for spring bloom, we’re enjoying being able to stand back and appreciate those that give winter interest. Based on our experience in the gardens at Fearrington, here are some easy to grow winter interest bulbs that, sited in the right spots, will multiply in your garden and, even better, deer don’t touch them:
The first up in cold weather were the beautifully veined leaves of Arum italicum. Technically a corm, not a bulb, they won't bloom or set their bright red-orange fruits until spring, but the clumps of leaves are welcome all winter.
Lycoris (Spider lily, Naked Ladies) and Sternbergia (Autumn daffodil) leaves are ice and cold damaged this year but still standing from late summer and fall blooms. They resemble daffodil leaves.
Galanthus will spring up next, usually sometime in January. We have several species of these tiny snowdrops in the borders of the White Garden. They’ll bloom throughout the spring months.
This month also watch for very low-growing Eranthis (Winter aconite) leaves, with their fat buds ready to burst forth, golden yellow, as soon as the winter sun warms them.
We have crocus leaves poking up already. Watch those spaces! Usually the first to bloom are in a large clump under the holly tree at the SW corner of McIntyre's.
Many gardeners pass up the opportunity to plant winter interest bulbs, but we find that the small scale of height and color the offer provide a welcome seasonal contrast. Think small and restrained - and you'll appreciate your gardens in a whole new light!