Grow Bulbs in Harmony with Nature

In South Africa, we are fortunate to live close to nature, sharing our environment with the many small creatures that contribute to a balanced ecosystem. When it comes to growing bulbs, you may like sharing a little bit less if it means you have to sacrifice the plants you have lovingly cultivated. Regardless, every creature just like us, needs their next meal. In some instances this may need some policing, but in a healthy garden nature usually takes her course with little need for human intervention.

When it comes to pests, some are more noticeable and easier to treat than others. Mealybugs, aphids, and red spider mites are easy to spot and manage. Others, such as thrips, snout beetles, lily borers, along with slugs and snails may require a more targeted approach. Mole rates pose a different challenge for gardeners, especially when trying to grow bulbs. Although moles are often blamed for eating bulbs, they actually seek out grubs and earthworms, disturbing the plants in the process. When it comes to bulbs, mole rats tend to prefer corms, which are often indigenous species. Before we delve into tips on how to Grow Bulbs in Harmony with Nature, we encourage everyone to maintain an ethical and environmentally-conscious approach with gardening.

Nature’s Helpers

We all appreciate bees, butterflies, and birds—even when they nibble on our crops—but there are many other beneficial creatures that deserve recognition. Ladybugs, for instance, happily feast on aphids, while lizards help keep unwanted pests in check. Even ants, tiny as they are, serve as nature’s cleanup crew, breaking down dead insects and enriching the soil, much like earthworms do. A visit from a hadeda is like a stamp of approval for your garden’s health. These noisy guests not only keep your soil aerated with their relentless probing but also act as free pest control—though they might charge in sound effects! The list goes on to include bats, beetles, spiders, and frogs. While some of them might startle you, take a moment to appreciate the larger picture: a thriving ecosystem in balance with nature.

 Clever planting  

You can consider planting bulbs that wildlife don’t enjoy eating. For instance, daffodils are hardly ever bothered by pests, along with Leucojum, Muscari, hyacinth, Eucomis, Tigridia, Allium and Clivia miniata amongst others. This is because many of these bulbs produce lycorine, a bitter-tasting compound which actually repels animals. If you want to plant bulbs that are appealing to animals, such as tulips or Babiana (which baboons down in the Western Cape love) try planting them among ones that aren’t as desirable.

When it comes to advertising a food source near your bulbs, try to stay away from smelly fertilisers such as bone meal – an indication for some animals that there’s a smorgasbord set up just for them. Try using fragrant companion plants such as marigolds or lavender to deter any unwanted visitors.

Plant in pots or raised garden beds 

If you have a small garden, plant your bulbs in a pot, either above ground, or sunken in your garden. Just make sure that there are plenty of drainage holes.

For larger garden beds, although somewhat labour-intensive, the best way to protect your bulbs from underground disturbance is to create an 'exclusion device'—essentially a wire cage made from chicken wire or metal mesh. This should be placed in a dug-out trench (or in smaller holes where extensive digging is impractical), then backfilled with soil and planted into. While this should stop diggers, it won't necessarily protect the bulbs from birds or browsing animals above ground. To combat this, you can plant your bulbs a little deeper, depending on the variety, or place a layer of mesh over the bulbs once planted, then cover with soil and mulch to conceal it.

Care for the creatures

As winter draws to a close and spring begins—just when food sources are scarce for wildlife—you might notice your plants being nibbled on. So, why not provide the creatures in your garden with the care they need? Place a designated feeding station away from your bulb beds to divert the wildlife in that direction! Instead of throwing away fruit and vegetable scraps, offer them to the wildlife in your garden. You can also help by putting out bird seed for the local birds.

Use Environmentally-friendly Pest Control Methods

If you need a more targeted solution, head to your local garden centre or nursery and ask for advice on tackling the specific pest you’re dealing with. Always read pesticide labels carefully and opt for the most environmentally-friendly option available. This way you will ensure your garden is a place of vibrant activity and growth.

Above all though, remain vigilant – get up close and personal with your plants, the first line of defense for protecting them.

Happy gardening!