May Garden Guide

May the flowers (and the force) be with you this month! If you haven’t planted your winter bulbs yet, now’s the time — cooler soil is practically calling out for them. There's a bit of seasonal magic at play: the chill of autumn is exactly what sparks root development in these winter wonders. It’s a beautiful, symbiotic dance between bulb and earth.

So go ahead, tuck them in and trust the process. It may take a few weeks of quiet root growth before you see those first brave green shoots—but they’re worth the wait. Ready to dig into the May Garden Guide ? Us too!

Winter Bulb Planting Time

What makes winter bulbs so wonderful is their ability to bring a burst of colour to an otherwise cold and quiet season. From remarkable indigenous varieties to striking exotic blooms, there’s a world of beauty waiting to flourish in your garden.

These blooms don’t just brighten your space—they transport you. A sweep of bluebells (Hyacinthoides) might take you to an English countryside, blooming gently beneath dappled trees. Or perhaps you'll be reminded of the West Coast, where local wildflowers paint the landscape in rich, vibrant hues.

Wherever they take you—and whomever they bring to mind—winter bulbs are a gentle reminder that even the coldest seasons hold the promise of life, colour, and beauty.

Top Tips for Happy Winter Bulbs

Location, location, location

Most winter bulbs thrive with morning sun and a bit of afternoon shade. Find a cosy spot that gets that gentle balance of light to keep them comfortable and thriving.

Don’t skip the mulch

  A layer of compost or winter annuals works wonders—think of it as a cosy, nutritious blanket. Not only does it keep the soil cool, but it also feeds your bulbs or adds an extra pop of colour. Give them that five-star treatment they deserve!

Water deeply for proper root development 

Water every 3-4 days for 10 minutes, or every 2-3 days if you have planted in pots. If you experience winter rainfall then you can water less frequently.

Planting in Pots

Pots make stunning features — whether they’re brightening up patios or nestled within a larger garden space. They’re also a wonderful alternative if planting directly into beds isn’t an option. There’s something special about the hands-on experience: feeling the soil, placing each bulb with care, and watering by hand—it’s a grounding, therapeutic ritual that connects you to every stage of your plant’s journey.

When planting winter bulbs in pots, start by placing them in the coolest spot you can find—typically the southern side of your house. Once the bulbs begin to sprout after several weeks, you can move them to a position where they’ll receive more morning sunlight.

For best results, we recommend using Pokon Potting Soil.

Not sure how much you'll need? Use this handy soil calculator to work it out. Just follow the prompts based on your planting preferences—and don’t forget, you can use the translation tool for your preferred language.

👉  [Start calculating] 

Waiting on Sprouts?

Root development is triggered by the drop in temperatures—it's the cold that gets things going beneath the surface. So, if your weather’s still on the mild side or if you skipped the mulch, your bulbs might take a little longer to show signs of life. Don’t worry though—they’re just taking their time settling in before making their grand entrance.

Winter Dormancy Explained

As one season blooms, another bows out. While our cold-loving bulbs step into the spotlight, the summer bloomers are beginning their slow retreat. It’s nature’s quiet exchange—one floral chapter closing as another prepares to dazzle.

As your bulbs begin to transition, it’s important to adjust your watering routine.

If the foliage is still lush and green, keep watering as usual—your bulbs are still active. However, if you notice yellowing or dieback, it’s time to slow down or stop watering altogether.

Some bulbs can tolerate light watering during dormancy, but only if your soil drains well. When in doubt, dry is safer than soggy!

Lifting Your Summer Bulbs? Here’s When It’s a Good Idea:
You can lift your summer bulbs at the start of winter, especially in the following cases:

• Limited space – If you don’t have the room to leave them in the ground or pots year-round.

• Poor drainage – To prevent rot caused by excess moisture or watering issues.

• Time to divide – If they’ve become overcrowded and need lifting and dividing before replanting.

What’s Flowering

Summer may be winding down, but some summer bulbs are still stealing the show in the garden! Keep an eye out for these stars that bloom well into autumn:

• Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) - The perfect potted plant!

• Dahlia – Bold and beautiful, still flaunting their colour.

• Gladiolus – Tall and striking with their elegant spikes.

• Haemanthus(evergreen) – A unique touch of green and bloom.

• Kniphofia– Also known as red hot poker, adding fiery flair.

• Nerine bowdenii – Delightful, frilly blooms with a pop of pink.

• Tulbaghia– Tough, charming and edible!

Your garden doesn’t have to say goodbye to colour just yet!

Feed After Flowering 

Once your bulbs have finished flowering, treat them to a dose of Bulb Food. This post-bloom boost helps replenish their energy stores, setting them up to repeat their spectacular show next season—stronger and more beautiful than ever.

Uplift Your Indoor Haven
While you're busy getting your garden into gear, give a little love to your indoor jungle too.

Add charm and character with handmade and recycled pots —perfect for sprucing up your houseplants and bringing a unique, eco-conscious touch to your space.

Shop pots. 

Mother’s Day Calls for Some DIY 

Create Your Own Mini Fragrant Garden 

The perfect coffee table accent—or a thoughtful, handmade gift for Mother’s Day!

What You’ll Need:

• A round terracotta bowl (available at your local garden centre or nursery or here )

• Potted spring bulbs (think hyacinths, daffodils—available from select retailers)

• Sphagnum moss (available at your local garden centre or nursery)

How to Make It:

Step 1:
Choose a clean, open surface to work on—somewhere you can get creative without crowding.

Step 2:
Ensure your terracotta bowl is clean and dry.

Step 3:
Gently place your potted bulbs with their soil into the bowl.

Step 4:
Space the bulbs evenly for a balanced, natural look. Loosen the soil slightly if needed—just be careful not to disturb the roots too much.

Step 5:
Tuck sphagnum moss between the bulbs to fill in any gaps. It adds a lush, finished touch and helps retain moisture.

Voilà! You’ve created a little piece of spring to enjoy indoors.

Happy May in the Garden!

May the month flower with joyful moments, blooming surprises, and plenty of peaceful hours in the garden.