Above- Tulip 'Antoinette '

It's Time to Plant Bulbs!

Bulbs are a great way to bring vibrant, seasonal color to your spring and summer garden. By selecting varieties with staggered bloom times, you can extend the flowering season. Be sure to shop early, as popular varieties tend to sell out quickly.
 
If you order bulbs by mail, they will arrive at the right time for planting. If you purchase bulbs locally, before it's time to plant, store them in a cool, dry spot, such as an unheated garage or a refrigerator. Avoid storing bulbs near ripening fruit, as the ethylene gas emitted can damage the bulbs and affect their growth.
 
When to Plant Bulbs:

The best time to plant spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, alliums, and lilies, is traditionally in October and November. However, you can plant them later as long as the ground hasn't frozen. For optimal results, wait until the soil temperature at planting depth is consistently below 60°F, or nighttime temperatures are between 40-50°F. Most bulbs need a chilling period of 12-16 weeks to encourage blooming and allow them time to develop strong roots.
 
Planting Tips:

Prepare the Site: Choose a location with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. If your soil is poor, amend it with organic material, compost, or sand. The soil should be moist but not soggy.
 
Dig the Right-Sized Holes:

Dig a hole that is 2-3 times deeper than the height of the bulb. You can either dig individual holes or create a larger one for planting multiple bulbs.
 
Add Amendments (Optional):

Although not required, adding a small amount of Bulb Tone, bonemeal, or another soil amendment to the bottom of the hole can enhance root development.
 
Plant Properly:

Place the bulb with the root side facing down and the pointed tip facing up. Space the bulbs according to the recommended guidelines on the package. Fill in the hole with the original soil and gently press it down.
 
Water Well:

After planting, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Most bulbs won’t require additional winter watering unless there’s a prolonged dry spell.
 
Control Weeds:

Apply 2 inches of mulch over the planting area to suppress weeds. The bulbs will easily push through the mulch, but the majority of weed seeds won't.
 
Protect from Rodents:

Bulbs are a tempting treat for squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters. To protect them, you can place a piece of mesh or chicken wire over the soil, removing it when the bulbs start sprouting. Some gardeners also recommend dipping bulbs in castor oil before planting or sprinkling the area with an animal repellent.
 
Label the Site:

Drawing a garden map or using garden markers with outdoor-proof paint pens can help you remember the names and locations of the bulbs you've planted. Alternatively, you can note the planting location on the bulb packaging and save it for future reference.

Long-Term Care for Bulbs:
 
While many bulbs can remain in the ground for years, over time, their flowering may decrease as they become crowded. When this happens, it’s a good indication that the clumps need dividing. To rejuvenate your garden’s display, carefully dig up the bulbs after they’ve finished blooming and the foliage has died back. Separate and replant the bulbs in fresh soil, giving them space to thrive. This simple step will ensure that your garden continues to enjoy vibrant blooms year after year. 

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Tulip 'Flaming Spring Green'

Allium 'Globemaster'

Tulip 'Princess Irene'

Narcissus 'Jetfire'

Tulip 'Antionette' and T. 'Hans Andrud'

Crocus 'Jeanne D Arc'

I wandered lonely as a cloud, that floats on high o’er vales and hills, when all at once I saw a crowd, a host, of golden daffodils.
                                                                                         ~ William Wordsworth