Colchicum (naked boys)

You can grow them almost anywhere, although they prefer a moderate rich and well-drained soil to which some organic matter has been added. Light shade fosters best year to year bloom but you will get flowers from bulbs planted in full sun or fairly heavy shade. Give them a spot towards the front of the border, under hedges, near the house, or colonize them in grass where it is not necessary to mow in the spring. Plant them about 8cm below the surface and at least 20cm apart, for the leaves which come in spring grow large. The bulbs can also be placed ‘dry’ indoors without soil or water where they will bloom in a matter of weeks. After flowering these bulbs too should be planted outdoors.