Taylors Bulbs Tulip `The First` (8)

True to its name, Tulip 'The First' is one of the very earliest tulips to bring colour to the spring garden, often flowering as early as March while most other tulips are still weeks away. Striking white and red blooms make a bold, cheerful statement against the still-bare spring soil.

Compact at around 20cm, The First is perfectly suited to the front of borders and containers, and works particularly well in multi-level bulb plantings, layered together with daffodils and crocus for a longer succession of colour. It thrives in sunshine, though blooms will last a little longer in partial shade.

Plant bulbs in autumn, in well-drained soil, ideally in a sunny position. As with all tulips, bulbs and sap can be harmful if eaten and may irritate skin, so gloves are recommended when handling.

Each bulb is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.