Discover the best time to plant bulbs for stunning blooms.
Bulbs have short stems, and fleshy leaves and go through a period of dormancy.
Growing bulbs requires planning because you don’t plant them in the same season the flowers bloom.
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We talked to gardening experts about when to plant bulbs.
When To Plant Bulbs
Spring and fall are the two seasons for planting.
Common spring-blooming bulbs include crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths, irises, snowdrops and tulips.
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Planting needs to occur before the first frost.
“This window is crucial because it allows the bulbs to develop roots before winter arrives.”
Each geographical region will vary so check your hardiness zone for frost dates.
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Timing your planting is key to ensure nothing happens to the bulbs while in the ground.
“Early enough for root development and late enough to avoid early growth.”
What can happen if you plant too soon?
You also don’t want to plant when the soil is too cold or frozen.
“Planting after the ground is frozen is equally bad,” adds Vater.
This may be in early or late spring based on your geographical region.
Live in a warmer geographical region?
One way is to check the soil temperature to see if it’s the right environment.
If you live in a colder area, you’ll likely need to wait for later spring.
“Typically, this is around mid-April to early May.”
“Research your bulbs before planting,” says Montgomery.
“Different bulb varieties may have slightly different planting requirements.”
Choose Healthy Looking Bulbs
Look for high-quality bulbs that are firm when you hold them.
see to it the bulb looks healthy.
“Inspect bulbs before buying for any signs of mold, rot, or softness,” says Montgomery.
How To Care for Bulbs
Caring for your bulbs is key to a vibrant flowering season.
Sunlight
Bulbs grow best when they receive ample sunlighta minimum of six hours per day.
“Choose a location with the right amount of sunlight,” says Thurmon.
“Most bulbs prefer full sun to partial shade.”
Soil
Bulbs, just like the majority of plants, need well-draining soil.
If you plant directly in the ground, you may have clay, sandy or loamy soil.
Loamy soil is ideal for bulbs.
Water
After planting, water your bulbs.
The amount you gotta water varies based on your climate and soil bang out.
According to Vater, “How and when to water will depend on the weather where you live.
“This will depend on temperatures and high winds as well as amount of rainfall.”
Fertilizing
Fertilizing isn’t necessary for bulbs because they are designed to have the nutrients they need.
“I dont typically fertilize at planting.”
There are exceptions for when you may want to use fertilizer.
She likes to add a topdressing of compost instead of fertilizer.
She notes that if you do use fertilizer, it could invite small animals.
Minimizing unwanted guests from snacking on your bulbs includes companion planting, physical barriers and natural repellents.
Companion planting
Growing plants thatget alongwith each other is an easy and natural way to deter pests.
For example, tulips and daffodils are a good pair and help keep unwanted animals away.
Natural Repellents
Using natural repellents to deter pests and unwanted animals from damaging bulbs is another option.
Most people likely have a baking spice in their pantry that is an inexpensive solution.
“Sprinkling cinnamon around the surface of the soil can also be very effective,” says Thurmon.
“Rats and mice detest the scent and will not come near.”
If you don’t have much space, you may opt to plant bulbs in containers.
Another benefit is this deters rodents from digging up your bulbs, says Thurmon.
A bulb cage may be needed when unwanted animals are persistent in getting to your bulbs.
Choose Color Schemes
Consider the colors you love and want to see in your garden.
“Choose complementary or contrasting colors for a vibrant and striking display.”
Thurmon loves grouping similar hues together.
Think about texture and how many flowers you want to grow, too.
Wondering if you should plant bulbs together or separately?
You also want to think about height and dimension when choosing locations.
