Adding perennial bulbs to a potted rose

Adding Perennial Bulbs to a Potted Rose

Spring-flowering perennial bulbs complement roses well as they emerge. A few bulbs popped around the edges will provide some early-season interest.

When choosing bulbs to pair with your rose, consider which colours will complement the crimson leaves as they emerge. Also look for perennial bulbs that will come back each year to reduce maintenance.

I'm Planting:

• Tulip 'Artist'
• Narcissus 'Edinburgh'
• Crocus 'Cream Beauty'

Planting Instructions

• Take a dibber (or use the handle end of any small garden tool) to make holes for your bulbs. They should be about 8 inches deep to protect bulbs from squirrels.
• For larger bulbs like tulips and narcissi, only plant one bulb per hole. Plant them wide apart around the roses.
• Keep bulbs in a dark and cool space away from mice and squirrels. Narcissi and crocus should be planted in early autumn, but you can wait a little longer if you're planting tulips.
• Since crocus bulbs are small, the easiest way to plant them is to scatter them and plant where they fall. They should be around half an inch to three inches apart. Backfill using your hands to cover all the bulbs.
• If you have problems with rodents, top dress with sprigs of holly to stop them from coming near the pot.

Further Reading

• A Year Full of Pots: Container Flowers for All Seasons by Sarah Raven

Get year-round inspiration for growing flowers in containers, including a range of bulbs.