Spring Bulbs

Nov 2, 2015 | Blog

Spring Bulbs

I know its hard to think about now- but how is your spring bulb display? Do you have spring bulbs? Do you want more? One of my most favorite times of year is when the spring bulbs start peeking through. To me I am so ready for green and color outside. If you want more joy and color in your early spring garden then now is the time to plant those bulbs. The best time to plant your spring bulbs is shortly after purchasing them. However, if you can’t plant them yet, they can be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. A great option for storage is a basement. If you have a variety of flowering bulbs, make sure they stay organized so you know which bulb is which when planting begins.

Spring bulbs can be clustered or spread out, depending on the effect that you would like to have. Clustered bulbs are good for garden beds, and spread out is better for a more natural appearance. As with many other plants, when planting spring bulbs, ensure the area has decent drainage. Some popular bulbs include: Anemones (Windflower), Crocus, Gladiolus, Hyacinths, Irises, Lilies and Tulips just to name a few. The deer resistant bulbs include daffodils, grape hyacinth, allium and narcissus. Do you have favorites?

Here is an example of spring bulbs clustered as container gardens:

Colorful container gardens

Here is an example of spring bulbs spread out to look more natural:

Great accent to a landscape!

Different bulbs require different planting depths. Here is picture demonstrating the suggested planting depth range for different bulbs:

Photo credit: americanmeadows.com

Use some bulb tone in the bottom of your planting hole. I like using a hori to plant bulbs because it’s easy to get the bulb to the depth needed. Just a reminder that fall is the best time to plant your bulbs for next spring!

Forcing Bulbs:

You can chill the bulbs to force them to bloom early and now is the perfect time to start forcing your bulbs. To properly chill the bulbs, loosely plant the bulbs in the pots that you would like them in. If you can, leave the tips of the bulb exposed. After planting the bulbs, you can chill them in the fridge away from the fruits and vegetables or in cold areas in and around your home, such as the garage, unheated basements or attics, or the pots can be left outside. Indoor forcing is preferred because it will provide for more constant temperatures. If you are chilling your bulbs in the fridge, make sure to cover the pot in plastic with some breathing holes punched in the top. If you are chilling them outside, make sure the pot is in place where it will drain well and bring inside if temperatures get below freezing. Different bulbs will require different amounts of time for chilling. Once the bulbs begin to grow shoots, the pots can be taken out of storage areas and displayed. To prolong the blossoms, avoid direct sunlight and avoid placing pots near heaters.

Some common bulb chilling and blooming time –

Daffodils: 12-15 weeks chilled, 2-3 weeks for them to bloom after being chilled

Tulips: 10-16 weeks chilled, 2-3 weeks for them to bloom after being chilled

Crocus: 8-15 weeks chilled, 2-3 weeks for them to bloom after being chilled

Here is some pictures for inspiration: