As the summer days start to fade and autumn approaches, it's the perfect time to refresh your garden for the new season. Here at Hilltop Garden Centre Essex, we've stocked up on everything you need to keep your outdoor space blooming and beautiful as the cooler months set in. From vibrant spring flowering bulbs to versatile autumn bedding plants, we've got plenty of exciting new arrivals this September. Let’s dive into what’s fresh in-store and how you can make the most of these seasonal treasures in your garden.
New in - Spring Flowering Bulbs
Autumn is the perfect time to get ahead and start planting your spring-flowering bulbs. Not only will they bring a burst of colour after the winter gloom, but they’ll also set the stage for a vibrant and cheerful garden next year. This September, we've got a fantastic selection of bulbs to choose from, including some real showstoppers:
Tulips: We’ve got a wide variety of tulips that will suit any garden. If you're looking for something striking and dramatic, our Queen of Night tulips with their deep, velvety dark petals are perfect for creating a moody, sophisticated look. For something a bit more playful, try our Outbreak Tulips, which feature vibrant multi-headed blooms that stand out in any border. If you prefer the classic tulip, Golden Apeldoorn tulips are a robust choice for borders, offering golden-yellow blooms that will brighten any space.
Other Spring-flowering Bulbs: In addition to tulips, we also have a great selection of extra-value packs of mixed species early flowering crocuses, which are perfect for naturalising in lawns or under trees. Plus, you'll find mixed alliums to create height and structure, delicate bluebells for woodland areas, and a range of anemones that bring a lovely splash of colour.
Planting tips: When planting bulbs, it's essential to place them in well-draining soil. You can plant tulips in borders or containers, ensuring they are at least 15-20cm deep and spaced about 10cm apart. For a striking display, consider planting in groups or clusters for a fuller effect. If you're planting in pots, make sure to use a good-quality bulb compost, and don’t forget to water them in after planting.
New in - Garden Pansies and Violas
As summer begins to fade, it’s time to think about refreshing your garden with plants that will provide colour and interest throughout the autumn and even into winter. Garden pansies and violas are excellent choices for replanting summer containers and baskets, bringing a fresh burst of life and vibrant colours to your outdoor space.
Refreshing containers and borders: Pansies and violas are versatile and hardy plants that can instantly revive tired-looking summer displays. Whether you're updating your borders, hanging baskets, or patio pots, these cheerful flowers are ideal for adding long-lasting colour. They come in a range of shades, from deep purples and blues to bright yellows and whites, so you can mix and match to create your desired look.
Planting and care tips: To get the best from your pansies and violas, plant them in well-prepared soil that’s rich in organic matter like our multi purpose Rocket Gro Organic Compost. If you're using containers or baskets, a good-quality compost like our Rocket Gro Container & Basket Compost will do the trick. Plant them fairly close together to create a dense display, and water them regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continuous blooming, keeping your garden looking fresh and vibrant.
These plants are perfect for extending the life of your garden displays as they can withstand the cooler temperatures of autumn. Plus, they’re easy to care for, making them a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
Creative planting ideas for autumn
As you start planting your autumn bulbs and refreshing summer displays, consider experimenting with creative planting arrangements to make your garden stand out. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Layered bulb planting: For a truly impressive spring display, try layering your bulbs in containers. Start with larger bulbs like tulips or daffodils at the bottom, then add a layer of smaller bulbs like crocuses or anemones on top. This method, sometimes called the 'lasagne' method, ensures that you’ll get waves of blooms over several weeks in the spring.
Mixing pansies and bulbs: Combine your newly planted bulbs with pansies or violas in containers or borders. The pansies will provide colour through autumn and winter, and as they start to fade in spring, the bulbs will take over, giving you a seamless transition of colour.
Companion planting: Consider pairing your autumn bulbs with other autumn bloomers like asters or chrysanthemums. This will add depth and interest to your garden as the season progresses, and ensure that you have a continuous display of flowers.
Why Choose Hilltop Garden Centre?
At Hilltop Garden Centre, we pride ourselves on providing not just plants, but a complete gardening experience. We’ve been serving the community for over 75 years, and we’re passionate about helping you make your garden, home, and life bloom brighter. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, our knowledgeable team is always on hand to offer advice and inspiration.
Our garden centre just outside Clacton-on-Sea in Essex is more than just a place to shop — it's a destination. With a wide range of plants, gardening supplies, and even a restaurant cafe where you can relax and enjoy a bite to eat, Hilltop Garden Centre is the perfect place to spend a day out. And with our exciting new arrivals this September, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Incorporate these tips and ideas into your garden this September, and you'll be well on your way to a vibrant and beautiful outdoor space. Don't forget to visit Hilltop Garden Centre Essex for all your gardening needs — whether you're looking for the latest plants, expert advice, or just a peaceful place to enjoy the season, we've got you covered. We look forward to welcoming you in-store and helping you create a garden that you can enjoy all year round. Happy planting!
