Welcome autumn with a splash of fresh, vibrant colour and impressive exotic-looking flowers, courtesy of Nerines. These late-season delights are just what’s needed to extend the season of colour, timed to perfection to burst into bloom just as your summer plants may be beginning to fade. They’re the ultimate pick-me-up in the garden on a dull day, not to mention a sparkling gem of a plant on those golden, sunny autumn days. You’re in for a real treat!

Nerine planting basics

Nerines are frost-hardy perennial bulbs and will return with magnificent blooms every year. They can cope with winter temperatures down to -10C, if it’s likely to get colder than that it is a good idea to give them a little extra protection. They love to be baked in the summer sun and will do best in a clear spot with free draining soil. Plant the bulbs with their necks exposed - if fully submerged they may produce only leaves and no flowers. These late-season plants often remain dormant into summer before they start producing their first leaves, so don’t worry if they don’t show any signs of life straight away!

How to plant Nerines

— Nerines are fully hardy to around -15C and generally don’t require any frost protection over winter.

— Plant your Nerine bulbs straight outside during mid-late spring in a free-draining soil.

— Grow in borders or containers in a sunny or partially shaded spot with free-draining soil.

— Plant shallowly with the necks of the bulbs exposed.

— Plant in groups at a spacing of around 10-15cm between bulbs.

— Water-in after planting.