There are two garden show stoppers at Uppark in spring, both easy to grow – the yellow Crown Imperial (pictured above) and the blue Siberian Squill (pictured inset).

Elegant performers the Crown Imperials are planted in our island beds, where we have recently cut back the laurels that were cramping their style; these classy plants now have the space on the garden catwalk they deserve.

Growing to about 1m in height, Imperials (members of the Lily family) have lance-shaped, glossy leaves, and display a whorl of downward facing flowers at the top of the stem, topped by a “crown” of small leaves. These perennial flowers make a wonderful statement in the garden, and release a smell that repels rodents! It’s best to plant this bulb on its side to prevent water causing rot at the top of the bulb where there’s a natural depression.

The perennial bulb Siberian Squill is around 20cm tall and creates a bit of a stir at Uppark. Striking blue flowers persist for about two weeks and contrast beautifully with the yellows and bright greens of other emerging spring plants. Squills can also be planted in grass and will spread by seed to form large colonies that go dormant by the time the grass needs to be mowed.

Spring is a time when things start to get really busy in the garden. Start by reviewing your spring bulb show – make notes, take photos and peg out blocks that need bulking out. This will help you with your planting in the autumn.

Plant summer-flowering bulbs now: one of my favourites is summer hyacinth, which flowers between July and September.

Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials – a great way to revive planting schemes and boost flagging borders. Revitalise containers with fresh compost by removing the top layer and replenishing with peat free multi-purpose.

In the vegetable garden, plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes. If you have a greenhouse, open the doors and vents on warm days. Mow the lawn on dry days – you’ll be amazed how much better it looks, and the smell of freshly cut grass is a timely boost to everyone’s spirits after the winter.

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