To ensure a splash of colour in the garden when summer flowers fade, autumn-flowering bulbs need to be planted now. This allows them to settle before blooming in October. Gardeners' World recommends planting bulbs two to three times deeper than their size.
As with other bulbs, deadhead spent flowers and let foliage die back naturally. Water well during dry summer conditions to support growth.
Hesperantha
Also known as crimson flag, river lily or Kaffir lily, Hesperantha thrives in October. Its vibrant flowers in crimson, pink or coral reach 60–75 cm in height and spread 30–45 cm.
Nerines
Nerines offer species like magenta Isabel and white-flowered Alba. The hardy Nerine bowdenii prefers full sun and free-draining soil. In October, it produces bright pink, red or white star-shaped flowers on tall, naked stems.
Gladiolus Murielae
Abyssinian gladiolus, or Gladiolus murielae, appears in October with white blooms resembling snowdrops. Its strong fragrance and rich green foliage add both scent and colour.
Tuberous Begonias
Varieties like Million Kisses Elegance and Illumination Scarlet flower until the first frost. Their draped elegance and subtle colours thrive until lifted before frost for replanting next year.
Cyclamen Hederifolium
Autumn-flowering Cyclamen hederifolium suits shaded gardens. It is unfussy, tolerates harsh weather and poor soil, and spreads to create a carpet of dramatic colour.
