Tulips, daffodils and other spring bulbs do not necessarily have to be discarded once the flowers have finished. What happens after flowering can determine whether some varieties return to the garden the following year.

Once a flower has faded, the flower head can be removed, but the leaves are best left in place. During the weeks that follow, the foliage continues to provide energy to the bulb underground. Cutting everything back immediately can reduce its chances of flowering again.

Eventually the leaves will turn yellow and begin to dry naturally. At that point they can be removed. Bulbs growing in garden borders can often simply stay where they are until the next season.

Bulbs grown in pots need a little more consideration. The container can be moved somewhere less prominent while the foliage dies back. Depending on the variety and local climate, the bulbs can then remain in the pot or be lifted and stored somewhere dry before being replanted later in the year.

Tulips can be less predictable than daffodils and some other spring bulbs. Certain varieties return for several years, while others produce a much smaller display after their first season. This is one reason gardeners often add new tulip bulbs in autumn.

Spring is also a good moment to notice which combinations worked in the garden. Taking a few photographs while everything is flowering makes it easier to remember where there were gaps or where you might want to add more bulbs when planting begins again in autumn.

Cut flowers can still be enjoyed indoors while the display lasts outside. A small bunch of tulips or daffodils from the garden can bring some of the season inside without clearing the entire bed.

By the time summer planting takes over, the spring bulbs have largely disappeared from view. Underground, however, many are already waiting for another growing season.

Stay Inspiration | De Groene Bollenschuur, Netherlands

Spring is an ideal time to visit the Dutch flower-growing region. Stay at De Groene Bollenschuur in Hillegom and explore the surrounding fields of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, with the famous Keukenhof gardens nearby.

→ Explore De Groene Bollenschuur with Les Couleurs du Monde Travel

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