Every spring is unique. When you plant bulbs, you are beginning a story that will play out differently every hour, every day, and every year from that moment onward. Factors like light, weather, and soil can all impact performance. Since no two springs bring the same conditions, the Colorblends Spring Garden in Bridgeport is totally unique this year.
It’s All About Layers
Cassata
Bulbs are a dialogue, and they work well in groups together. Right now, at The Garden, different varieties are talking to each other from across the turf, each adding to the significance of the overall display. And it’s educating visitors about possibilities. Go ahead. Steal some planting ideas that could work in your landscape. Labels in the garden are meant to help you select your favorites, so jot down the name of that daffodil with the open face and butter yellow frill that begins blooming early and keeps on entertaining (Narcissus Cassata, raise your hand).
Still on Stage
Striped Squill and Hokus Crocus
Depending on conditions, crocuses can be long range entertainers rather than just a quick surge. They are still putting on a show at The Garden. Also still scampering around are Striped Squill (Puschkinia) and Glory of the Snow (Chiniodoxa). They’ve pushed their blossoms up together, creating a tapestry of soft blues and whites that feels restful—like a gently flowing river. The gentle blooms spread across the lawn, softening the fervent yellows of daffodils. Hint: pair Blue Squill with a bright yellow daffodil for a rich pairing of complementary colors.
Glory of the Snow
Daffodils Beyond Your Wildest Dreams
Daffodils are putting on a performance this week. Jetfire is the star, holding the stage and echoing throughout the garden, but many other daffodils add their voice to the harmony.
Jetfire
The varieties and blends work together to create a chorus of color. Grouped in clusters, the different varieties form a patchwork jigsaw of yellow, white, orange, and apricot. For a strong statement, consider following the example and plant your daffodils in color blocks across the lawn. Or follow nature’s cue and plant in naturalized bouquets. Daffodils will sing for many springs to come.
About the Author
Author, garden writer, lecturer, blogger, and photographer Tovah Martin has spent decades working with and writing about bulbs. An honorary member of the Garden Club of America, her most recent book, The Garden in Every Sense and Season, was awarded the Gold Medal from GardenComm. A fanatical hands-on organic gardener outdoors and inside, she digs into Furthermore, her own 7-acre Connecticut farmstead.