From waves of bright spring bulbs to enchanting rhododendrons in the woodland, spring is a joy at Harlow Carr
The old winter garden is generously planted with spring-flowering bulbs and shrubs, ensuring a colourful start to the season. Here, Narcissus 'Jenny', Chionodoxa forbesii 'Blue Giant', Scilla siberica and hellebore seedlings carpet the ground, beneath the flower-studded branches of Cornus mas.
Carpets of heathers by the garden entrance give glorious displays on even the greyest days. These bright beds flower from January - April, ensuring visitors are welcomed by plenty of cheerful colour.
A visitor photographs Fritillaria meleagris (snake's head fritillary). These wonderful nodding flowers, with an intriguing chequerboard pattern, carpet the meadow by the main bridge in spring.
Masses of Erythronium 'Pagoda' create a cheerful carpet beneath Betula utilis var. jacquemontii and copper-barked Prunus serrula.
Drifts of Camassia leichtlinii subsp. suksdorfii Caerulea Group - part of the hyacinth family - create a pretty blue backdrop to the Bramall Learning Centre.
Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation' AGM on the Main Borders in spring.
The woodland comes alive in spring, with spectacular displays from rhododendrons and azaleas, along with narcissus and alliums lining the paths.
Enjoy glorious tulip displays - a sure sign that spring is well under way.
From white to scarlet, dwarf to towering, rhododendrons are a must-see in May. Visit on 5 - 6 May for the Spring Plant Weekend, which includes an RHS-judged Rhododendron Show.
