Flower Bulb Container Gardening

You’re in the perfect spot to learn everything there is to know about container planting! Maybe you don’t have a garden, or perhaps your’s is already thriving, but you can’t resist adding more. Container planting is the answer! Imagine patios and balconies brimming with potted bulbs, or cosy nooks in your garden where vibrant pots burst with seasonal blooms. Let’s dive into eight easy steps for Flower Bulb Container Gardening—perfect for beginners ready to bring their spaces to life!

Position your pots 

Location, location, location! Picking the perfect spot for your pot is essential (no pressure!). It all depends on your bulb’s lighting tastes—because, yes, even plants have preferences. Winter bulbs, for instance, enjoy a little morning sunshine followed by a lazy afternoon in the shade, whereas summer bulbs keep it simple and are happy to soak in full sun. So, whether you are placing them in a sunny pot on your stoep, filling large garden pots with masses of blooms, or setting up a vertical display brimming with small potted bulbs, the possibilities are endless!

Select the right sized container for the bulbs you are planting

While all bulbs can thrive in pots, the key question is: what size should you pick? Think about how tall your plants will grow and choose a container that allows them to reach their full potential. Pay attention to both depth and width. For example, amaryllis bulbs generally do well in 15cm pots—smaller sizes work too if you’re planting sonatini varieties. If you’re going for a mass planting, a larger pot is the way to go. For dahlias, aim for a pot at least 30cm deep, with width depending on the variety you choose. Visualise the final look you want, and let your pot choice follow suit!

Ensure sufficient drainage 

Next up: drainage! Take a peek at the bottom of that pot—does it have a drainage hole, or is it more of a mini swimming pool? Ideally, pick one with drainage already sorted. If not, no worries—grab a drill and give that pot a makeover! Once you have got those holes in place, add a layer of Pokon Hydrokorrels or small stones to the bottom. This not only helps with drainage but also keeps the soil from sneaking out the bottom (because who wants a muddy mess?).

Use quality potting medium

Determine the ideal planting depth for your bulbs, then fill your container to a certain level with a quality medium like Pokon Potting Soil. After placing your bulb, top up with extra soil to reach the correct level and provide your bulb with a cosy fit.

How to plant bulbs in containers

Place your bulb into the pot following the planting instructions (found on the bulb pack or online), then cover the bulb with enough soil to keep it comfy. In pots, feel free to pack the bulbs in a little closer—tight spaces, big blooms! Once your bulbs are nestled in, add a layer of "solid gold" (aka compost) on top. This magic layer will boost the soil with nutrients and help retain moisture, meaning less watering for you. If you’ve got the space, why not throw in some colourful annuals for a burst of extra colour that will keep on giving?

Water your potted bulbs regularly

When it comes to watering your container plants, the key is to keep your bulbs happy and moist, not dry or drenched. The roots should stay damp, but not soggy. A good rule of thumb is to water every 2-3 days for containers. If your plants are in a spot that gets a bit of rain, you can ease up on the watering—nature’s got your back!

Feed your potted bulbs regularly 

Feed your bulbs right after planting, then continue to nourish them monthly. We recommend using Hadeco Bulb Food 3:9:17, or a similar balanced option, to keep them thriving!

After flowering care

Once your bulbs have dazzled you with their blooms, it is time to keep the feeding going every month until they hit dormancy, usually around autumn. Potted plants can be nutrient-hungry little things, so regular fertilising is key! When your foliage starts to die back naturally (do not despair, your bulb is just taking a nap), you can either leave your bulbs in their pots to rest, tucked away in a dry spot, or if you are feeling organised, lift them and store them away for next year’s show. The best would be to store them in a brown paper bag (with ventilation holes) in a dry, dark cupboard until planting the following season. Either way, give them a well-deserved break—plants need holidays too!

There you have it, Flower Bulb Container Gardening for Beginners, and a world of stunning bulbs ready to be planted! So, what’s stopping you? Get those hands dirty and start planting today!