Peter Dowdall: Crocus, narcissus and anemone signal it's spring

White flowers can lead the season, writes Peter Dowdall

Crocus thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, though they will tolerate light shade before trees come fully into leaf.  File picture

I love white in the garden. There is something so pure, simple and elegant about it. In March, when the garden is just beginning to move again and the light is strengthening by the day, white feels particularly apt. It catches the low spring sunshine and seems to glow, even on a dull afternoon.

At this time of year, especially, white flowers lift everything around them. If you want to introduce white into your garden from the beginning of the season, then March is the perfect moment.