The Exton Gardener

The daffodils this spring have been spectacular with sheets of gold regaling us at every turn.

Wordsworth would have been inspired! But one can reach a saturation point with golden daffodils and it might be time to look at some of the quieter and more dainty spring bulbs available.

These are some of my favourites.

Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis)

Don’t confuse these with the tall snowflake (Leucojum aestivum).

The true snowdrop is a smaller gem with a more complex white flower tipped with green.

It is an early flowerer, multiplies readily and is famously divided and moved “in the green.”

Chinodoxa (Scilla forbesii)

The twentieth century English writer, Beverley Nichols, wanted his country cottage rock garden to display a “waterfall of Chinodoxa” in spring.

I admire his ambition when for me Chinodoxa is shy and fleeting but the true blue of its colouring is exquisite.

The plant is quite small and easily overcrowded but the colour is unmatched.

There is a pink version which is washed out and sadly disappointing.

Trillium (Trillium spp)

As its name would suggest, everything is in threes - three leaves, three petals and a three-part pistil.

There are varying sizes and colours and they make a dramatic statement.

If you ever want to see trilliums in all their glory, visit Kaydale Lodge at Nietta at this time of year.

Fritillaries (Fritillaria spp)

I have three species, including the chequered F. megealaris which is very easy to grow and multiplies well from seed.

I’ve planted it around an herbaceous perennial as it grows and flowers before the perennial gets going.

I haven›t found the Crown Imperial fritillary yet which is tall and magnificent.

One day perhaps...

Erythronium spp.

It can be called Trout lily or Dogs-tooth violet but neither name really describes it.

There are pink, yellow and white species.

This one is Erythronium dens-canis.

It has been slow to establish and I am always surprised to suddenly see it, but it is such a charmer!

And lastly...

Tulips 

Tulip displays are, without doubt, spectacular, but there is a fair bit of work and expense involved.

Tulipa saxatile, on the other hand, is dead easy.

Once established, it seems to require nothing more than the occasional division.

It spreads gently and makes a great display.

So if you have a small area somewhere under deciduous trees, any of these would be a delightful addition to your spring garden.