A field of yellow daffodils

Like the name implies, fall bulbs, including daffodils, tulips, crocuses and hyacinths, are planted in the fall. Unlike other flowers, these need a period of dormancy in the garden soil before they can bloom in the spring. And then in the spring, gardeners can look forward to the wonderful display of colour!

Planting fall bulbs is fast and rewarding. And it’s easy to do, even if you have never picked up a shovel before! Fall bulbs are low-maintenance, making them perfect for beginners! Here are some tips and tricks for planting those fall bulbs.

When to plant:

• The best time to plant those bulbs is after the first frost, so that the bulbs can stay cool during the winter
• frost time varies depending on where you live; check with your local garden center for the most reliable information
• bulbs should be planted as soon as you purchase them, to help establish the root system before winter

Choosing the right bulbs:

• usually, the smaller the bulb, the the earlier it will bloom and the more you will need to create an attractive garden display
• smaller bulbs, like crocuses, produce smaller flowers; larger bulbs produce larger and taller blooms
• choose bulbs that are firm, plump and clean and don’t show signs of rot
• choose a variety of bulbs to ensure the best range of colours for your garden and varied bloom times
• bulbs can be bought from reputable gardening centers, big box stores or nurseries

Planting conditions

• most fall bulbs prefers the sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Bulbs do not like wet soil.
• It’s always a good idea to follow the instructions on the packaging
• Use a shovel or trowel to dig holes; bulbs should  be planted upwards, with with the pointy tip or eyes/buds facing upward
• generally, the bulbs should be covered with double its own depth of soil; bulbs planted too deep will produce smaller, weaker blooms.
• give the bulbs enough water after planting
• be sure to fertilize the soil in the spring
• You may have to deal with squirrels and other wildlife eating the planted bulbs;

Fall Bulbs to Plant Now

• tulip
• daffodil
• crocus
• hyacinth
• Fritillaria

And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Gardening shouldn’t be stressful.

Related articles

• Time To Get Those Bulb’s Planted To Ensure A Beautiful Spring Garden! (scarboroughfairflorals.wordpress.com)
• Dig in: Plant bulbs in fall for spring show (redding.com)
• Fall Lawn and Garden Tips (kake.com)
• Refrigerate Your Bulbs Now to Increase Blooms in the Spring (learningasigotips.wordpress.com)
• Fall Tulip Bulb Planting (scarboroughfairflorals.wordpress.com)
• Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs Now (glenns-garden.com)