Finding flowers to flourish over autumn

09:09:20 7th September 2010

During autumn, it can be hard to find a flower to brighten up the garden; one expert suggests alliums provide a versatile means of decoration.

Alliums can be grown in many varieties - small and large, bright purples and more delicate shades.

Lia Leendertz of the Guardian notes that the bigger species work well at the front of the garden, while the smaller look best scattered in amongst other flowers.

She comments that, when intending the flowers to stand alone, the bulbs should be planted at three or four times their own depth.

When intended to grow among other flowers, bulbs should be scattered to create a more natural-looking effect.

"The worst thing you can do is dig individual holes and fill the base of each with grit: in a downpour, the grit holes will just fill with water. While this majority insist on full sun, a few grow in dappled shade," Ms Leendertz advises.

Recently, Anna Pavord of the Independent noted that many plants should be pruned now that autumn has arrived.

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