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One of the most thrilling sights for any gardener, from the
newest to the most experienced, is the first spring flowers
peeking up through the last snow of winter. Spring flowers have
long been seen as a sign of new life, and gardeners certainly
enjoy seeing these beautiful harbingers of warmer weather.
Whether it is the tiny, delicate blossoms of the snowdrop, the
delicate petals of the econite or the subtle beauty of the Irish
reticulate, it is hard to beat the beauty of spring flowers.
These first delicate blossoms of spring are a sign that the long
days of winter are finally over, and that it is time to look
forward to warmer weather. Even the most jaded gardeners
continue to be excited by the sight of the earliest blossoms
making their way through the last snow of winter.
The well named snowdrop is one of the most beloved, and most
popular types of flowers for early spring. These delicate
blossoms are breathtaking to behold. The common snowdrop,
scientific name Galanthus nivalis, features small, delicate
blossoms, while the giant snowdrop, known to scientists as the
Galanthus elwesil, features striking large early spring blooms.
The Iris reticulate is another favorite early spring bloom. This
bulb is one of the most striking flowers in the world of
gardening, and it is highly prized for its beauty. The Iris
reticulate originally came from the high mountain areas of
Western Asia, and it does well in cold climates. The Iris
reticulate does best in a well drained bed containing coarse
sand or grit.
When caring for an Iris reticulate, it is important not to over
water the plant, since this can cause severe damage to the bulb.
This plant comes in a wide variety of colors, ranging from a
pale amethyst to a deep, dark purple. In addition, the Iris
reticulate has been thoroughly hybridized, and a wide variety of
hybrid colors, including solids, speckles, stripes and splotches
are available as well.
In addition to these somewhat common early spring blooms, there
are rarer varieties as well. One of the rarest of late winter
and early spring bulbs is the Adonis vernalis. The Adonis
appears to be a delicate plant, but it is able to make its way
through the snows of late winter to provide a beautiful bloom in
March. The Adonis has a beautiful yellow bloom, and it makes a
wonderful companion to any landscape. The Adonis can be used
anywhere, but it makes a particularly good addition to a winter
rock garden.
No matter which types of late winter or early spring blooming
flowers you choose, you will be rewarded with beautiful color in
your garden as the last days of winter give way to the first
days of spring.
About the author:
Tony Robinson is an international author and webmaster. In his
busy life he finds time to "Smell the Roses". For geat tips,
techniques and articles visit http://www.rose-bloom.com
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