Bulbs

[FP]

I want to plant about 500 british bluebell bulbs into a woodland area of my garden. What is the quickest way to do this. The soil is very easy to work with, but I dont fancy planting each one by hand. Also will they flower the first spring after I plant them. Thanks

[New Forester]

No short cuts I'm afraid. One at a time. Careful where you get your bulbs from. It's illegal to dig wild bluebells up, even with the landowner's permission (most other plants are only illegal without permission). If you buy them from a nursery, you are quite likely to get Spanish bluebells, or more likely the hybrid with our native ones. You could try collecting seed from wild bluebells, and scattering it -- quicker to do and the species is reliable -- but you'll have to wait a few years for flowers.

[FP]

Oh dear, I'll have to arrange a working party - perhaps with wine thrown in!. Actually I already do have British Bluebells but want a lot more to preserve the species. I am getting them from a specialist nursery: http://www.bluebellbulbs.co.uk/Catalogue/Native%20bulbs.htm We have a bluebell wood about 50 yds from our house which is absolutely beautiful but I would not dream of taking them from there. Thanks for your very prompt answer. JW

[Drewhound]

You can cut the time and effort down by digging larger diameter holes with a spade and putting a number in each hole. After a couple of years you won't notice the difference and it's looks better than one at a time. They are pretty sturdy, you should get some flower next spring

[Wisebird]

Thanks for that Drewhound.