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BULB BONANZA
Late April into May sees gardens carpeted with tulips in a kaleidoscope of colours and myriad shapes and sizes. Planted en masse they are a sight to behold. At the Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival, 15 April to 6 May, marvel at the stunning, artistic displays of more than 100,000 bulbs, including rare and historic varieties (hrp.org.uk); while at Pashley Manor Gardens in East Sussex, wander the colour-themed garden ‘rooms’ during its annual tulip showcase, 22 April to 6 May (pashleymanorgardens.com). There are many more gardens all over the country that celebrate this seasonal blooming highlight, where you can enjoy the crescendo of jewel tones and find inspiration for your own planting plans.