The first signs

With snowdrops and crocuses carpeting the ground, spring is on its way, so head out and experience the beauty close up

- Leigh Clapp

February is a month of uncertainty – is spring on its way or is there more wintry weather to come? It is wonderful though, to get out into the cold, crisp air and experience the first bursts of colour from newly emerging bulbs. With floral beauty more scarce at this time of the year, each bloom is anticipated and appreciated. Plant hormones are stimulated as the days begin to lengthen, awakening a scene of bulbs, shrubs and trees ready to burst into bloom. Bulbs in particular are the early stars of the garden, turning banks and shady areas under trees into carpets of bloom. Mass displays in borders burst into show and as they die down are replaced by later flowering perennials. Even in a small garden make room for bulbs; either in garden beds, on lawns, or in potted combinations.