THERE are so many different varieties of tulip in a myriad colours – from whites to yellow, orange, red and deep purple – that no garden should be without them.

If you like fussy and frilly, go for the parrot types. If not, opt for a classic single, large, strong-stemmed variety.

Tulips need well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny site. Bulbs should be planted 10-15cm deep in late autumn and protected from excessive wet.

Most should be lifted when the foliage has died after flowering, although some can be left in the ground for several years to flower again and again.