Collection R: The Bee-Loved Early Bird Garden

Early sightings of these diminutive flowers have a huge impact. They bravely wake up the world and brighten spirits as they herald spring's arrival. And, when bees awaken from winter hibernation, they are literally starving. They need the protein-rich nectar from early blooming flower bulb smorgasbords to survive and thrive in spring. Here, we have grouped some of the most yummy, nourishing and beautiful of bee-loved early bloomers. 

Estimated planting area: 33 square feet. Top size bulbs. Bloom time: March/April. Plant the bulbs about 5" deep and 5" apart. Horticultural zones: 5-8. Height: 4" to 8". Please note that our collections are shipped in mid-October. (Each variety's photo appears in order as listed from left to right and top to bottom.) 

• 50  Crocus tommasinianus Barrs Purple: Amethyst-violet. 4".
• 50  Crocus tommasinianus Ruby Giant: Spectrum-violet, paler base. 4". 
• 50  Eranthis cilicica: Bright lemon-yellow. 4".
• 50  Galanthus elwesii: Creamy-white, tipped green. 5" to 8".
• 50  Iris reticulata Harmony: Bluebird-blue, yellow blotches. 4".
• 50  Ornithogalum balansae: White, green striped reverse. 5".