Wildlife gardening – how to plant bulbs in lawns

How to plant bulbs in lawns

Create a naturalistic effect by planting bulbs like daffodils and fritillaries in your lawn.

A table displaying which months are best to sow, plant and harvest.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
To do
To do

Do not To do in January

Do not To do in February

Do not To do in March

Do not To do in April

Do not To do in May

Do not To do in June

Do not To do in July

Do not To do in August

Do To do in September

Do To do in October

Do To do in November

Do not To do in December

Bulbs look best when they grow naturally – or at least when they look like they do. Spring bulbs look particularly impressive when planted informally in lawns. Many varieties of daffodil and crocus are perfect for growing under turf, and will multiply over the years to produce even bolder displays.

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For the greatest impact, use a single variety, planted in large drifts.

In damp areas, try planting snake’s head fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris), an early flowering bulb that looks stunning when naturalised in grass.

Spring bulbs look particularly impressive when planted informally in lawns.

You Will Need

  • Daffodils
  • Crocus corms
  • Bulb planter

Step 1

Scattering crocus corms in the lawn
Scattering crocus corms in the lawn

Rather than planting in straight lines or small groups, throw your bulbs into the air and see where they fall. Then simply plant them where they land.


Step 2

Using a bulb planter to make a hole in a wall
Using a bulb planter to make a hole in a wall

Use the bulb planter to make a hole in the lawn. Push firmly, using the gauge on the side to ensure that it reaches a depth of 5cm.


Step 3

Removing the earth from the bulb planter
Removing the earth from the bulb planter

Pull the bulb planter out of the lawn and remove the piece of earth that comes up with it. Put this to one side as you will need to replace it after you have planted the bulb.


Step 4

Placing the bulb in the hole
Placing the bulb in the hole

Place one bulb in each hole, making sure the growing tip is pointing upwards.


Step 5

Replacing the soil and turf in the hole
Replacing the soil and turf in the hole

Replace the piece of turf and soil over the bulb. Make sure it is flush – use your foot to firm it in place if necessary.


Step 6

Watering the lawn
Watering the lawn
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Water the area generously.