What are Bulbs in the Green?

Bulbs in the Green refer to flowering bulbs that are sold and planted while they still have their green foliage. This method of purchasing bulbs guarantees their viability and increases the likelihood of successful establishment and flowering in your garden compared to dormant bulbs.

Types of Bulbs in the Green

Bulbs in the Green encompass various types, including true bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers. These storage facilities for the plant are perennial plants, meaning they live for longer than two years. True bulbs are underground shoots with modified leaves attached to the basal plate, from which foliage leaves, flowers, and roots grow. Examples of true bulbs include the Daffodil (Narcissus). Corms are swollen underground stems that store the plant’s food, with shoots and flowers growing from a main bud. Crocus (spring crocus) is an example of a plant that grows from a corm. Rhizomes are underground stems that store energy, and roots and shoots grow from nodes along the stem. Iris is an example of a plant that grows from rhizomes.

Benefits of Planting Bulbs in the Green

Planting bulbs in the green offers several advantages. Firstly, bulbs in the green have a higher water content, reducing stress on the bulb and increasing the success rate of establishment. Additionally, planting bulbs in the green allows you to see where they will flower, making it easier to plan your garden borders and ensure correct spacing. Finally, by planting bulbs in the green, you can enjoy a fabulous display of flowers the following year, without having to wait for years for them to establish.

Availability and Planting Time

Bulbs in the green are typically available for purchase from December to March, and sometimes even into April. It is important to plant bulbs in the green promptly after purchase to ensure their successful growth.

Suitable Plants for Bulbs in the Green

Several common spring flowers are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green. These include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and lily of the valley.

Planting Options for Bulbs in the Green

Bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers or directly into garden borders. Planting them in pots and containers allows for a rolling display of flowering plants, while planting them in garden borders quickly injects flowers into bare spots in your winter garden.

Snowdrop Establishment

Snowdrops, in particular, can take some time to establish. However, planting them in the green can help speed up the process and ensure a beautiful display of these delicate flowers.

Source Reliability

The information provided in this article is based on reliable sources, including The Boston Bulb Company Ltd, Winter Gardens, and Garden Ninja: Lee Burkhill Garden Design.

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FAQs

What are bulbs in the green?

Bulbs in the Green refer to flowering bulbs that are sold and planted while they still have their green foliage. They are living plants, usually with leaves growing, but may or may not have flower buds or flowers.

Why should I buy bulbs in the green?



Buying bulbs in the green guarantees their viability and increases the likelihood of successful establishment and flowering in your garden compared to dormant bulbs. It ensures that the bulbs are healthy and capable of growing.

What types of bulbs are considered bulbs in the green?

Bulbs in the green include true bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers. True bulbs have modified leaves attached to the basal plate, from which foliage leaves, flowers, and roots grow. Corms are swollen underground stems that store the plant’s food, and shoots and flowers grow from a main bud. Rhizomes are underground stems that store energy, and roots and shoots grow from nodes along the stem. Tubers also serve as storage organs for the plant.

What are the benefits of planting bulbs in the green?

Planting bulbs in the green offers several benefits. Firstly, bulbs in the green have a higher water content, making them less prone to drying out and increasing the success rate of establishment. Additionally, planting bulbs in the green allows you to see where they will flower, making it easier to plan your garden borders and ensure correct spacing. Finally, by planting bulbs in the green, you can enjoy a beautiful display of flowers the following year, without having to wait for years for them to establish.

When are bulbs in the green available for purchase?

Bulbs in the green are typically available for purchase from December to March, and sometimes even into April. It is best to check with local nurseries or online suppliers for specific availability in your area.

When should I plant bulbs in the green?



Bulbs in the green should be planted promptly after purchase to ensure their successful growth. The sooner they are planted, the better the chances of them establishing and flowering in the current growing season.

Which plants are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green?

Some common spring flowers that are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and lily of the valley. These plants are known to establish well when planted in the green.

Can bulbs in the green be planted in containers?

Yes, bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers. This allows for a rolling display of flowering plants and gives you the flexibility to move the containers around for better visual impact. Just make sure the containers have good drainage to prevent waterlogging.