The use of winter blooming heather is also a nice companion plant. Crocus - Offers some of the finest early spring color. The winter Species Crocus begin blooming in early January. They are available in bright orange, white, yellow and blue. Dutch Crocus have a little larger flower and begin blooming in late February, continuing until late March or early April.
Colors range from white, lavender, purple and yellow to striped white and lavender.
They are effective in borders, groupings and naturalized settings. Daffodils - A natural in Northwest gardens. The bright yellows, whites, pinks and combinations of colors are outstanding when used among evergreens, in naturalized plantings or in combinations with crocus, tulips and other spring flowering plants. Hyacinths - Beauty and fragrance for the garden. Their use is more limited than the other bulbs mentioned because they are stiff and formal and do not naturalize as well.