When to plant tulips, daffodils & alliums for a stunning spring display

There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing your garden burst into bloom after a long winter. But to get those gorgeous tulips, daffodils, and alliums waving in the breeze come March and April, you need to start now.

Here’s a quick and easy guide to when to plant tulips, daffodils, and alliums—and why timing matters.

Daffodils

Best time to plant: September to October

Why: Daffodils like a head start. They need time to grow strong roots before winter sets in. Planting them too late can reduce their chances of flowering—or delay the blooms.

Quick tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil
• Aim for 2–3 times the depth of the bulb
• Clumps look more natural than rows

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Tulips

Best time to plant: Mid to late October through November (even into early December if the ground isn’t frozen)

Why: Tulips actually prefer to be planted later than other spring bulbs. Planting them after the first frosts helps prevent fungal diseases like tulip fire and gives them the chill period they need.

Quick tips:

• Choose a sunny, sheltered spot
• Well-drained soil is key
• Try layering with early- and late-flowering tulips for a longer display

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Alliums

Best time to plant: September to November

Why: Like tulips and daffodils, alliums need a cold period to trigger blooming. Get them in the ground by November so they can settle before it gets too cold.

Quick tips:

• Alliums like sunshine and good drainage
• Space bulbs well apart for maximum impact
• Look great with grasses or as a border highlight

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Top tip

Always plant bulbs at 2–3 times their own depth, with the pointy end facing up. Don’t forget to water them in after planting to help them settle.

Ready to Plant?

We’ve made it easy with curated collections of tulips, daffodils, and alliums ready to go. Whether you're planning a bold border or filling pots, our hand-picked bulbs are top quality and garden-tested.

Shop All Spring Bulbs →

Plant now, enjoy later.
A few minutes in the garden this autumn will reward you with weeks of colour come spring. Your future self will thank you.