Better Together

Add bulbs to your garden beds with these easy combos

By Debra Prinzing
Photography by Pete Krumhardt

Better Homes & Gardens March 2013

BHG March 2013 Cover

This project began when I proposed to garden editor Eric Liskey that we plant spring bulbs in and around the BH&G Test Garden – in areas where they could pair nicely with early-spring groundcovers or perennials. After all, what could be prettier than plants at their early spring best? More plants! Add bulbs to your garden beds with these easy combos.

“Plant bulbs in uneven clusters rather than in obvious rows or as lonely singles. They’ll look as if they grew there naturally.”

Spring Gala: Overwinter pansies for no-fail colorful combos. The design features ‘Apricot Whirl’ narcissus (Zones 4-10) with ‘Orange Matrix’ pansies, a cool-season annual (hardy to Zone 5).
Why it works: Plant bulbs and pansies together in fall; pansies go right on top of the bulbs. When the narcissus flowers bloom, the pansies will be there waiting, for a can’t miss duo.

Purple Passion combo

Purple Passion: Perennials and bulbs create the perfect pairing of leaf and bloom. The design combines ‘Purple Voice’ and ‘Woodstock’ hyacinths (Zones 3-9) with ‘Husker Red’ penstemon foliage (Zones 3-9).
Why it works: In addition to the lovely leaf-and-bloom combo, the penstemon will flower later in the season, giving this planting two color peaks.

Sculpture Garden: Shape and texture create living art in a delicious combination that pairs ‘Pink Impression’ tulips (Zones 3-8) and soft green ostrich fern (Zones 3-9).
Why it works: Delicate ferns look beautiful with the bold shape and color of tulips. For an equally striking contrast, use a delicate bulb such as grape hyacinth with large-leaf perennials such as heuchera.

Midas Touch: A carpet of foliage sets the stage for a showy bloom. ‘Belladona’ tulips (Zones 3-8) harmonize with ‘Golden Tiara’ hostas (Zones 3-9).
Why it works: Yellow blossoms cheerfully play off the variegated hosta foliage beneath. Tulips don’t always return reliably; try daffodils for a more lasting option.

How to plant a winning combo:

Sculpture Garden

1. This spring, before perennials fill in, note the location of openings where you can plant bulbs.

2. Order bulbs in summer, then plant as soon as they arrive. Use a bulb auger instead of a trowel for easier planting between perennials.

3. Use bulbs categorized as midspring bloomers, rather than early- or late-spring bulbs. They flower about the same time that many perennials emerge.

4. If you plant naturalizing bulbs, which return each year, let the foliage dry up before you remove it. It probably won’t be noticeable – most perennials are large enough to hide fading bulb foliage.

More designs:

Spring Gala

Midas Touch