Create a Show Stopping Spring Display

One of the great things about spring is the early burst of color that we get from bulbs after the long days of winter. Sunny yellow daffodils, tulips in a rainbow of colors, fragrant hyacinths are all familiar spring flowers. By spending some time planning this fall, you can have a spectacular spring display to enjoy after the dreary days of winter. The following guidelines will help you with your planning.

1. Spring flowering bulbs must have a period of cool temperatures to bloom. The recommended growing zones are 3-7. If you live in a warmer zone, you will need to prechill the bulbs before planting. Place them in a refrigerator in October for 8-10 weeks before planting. If you live in the northern states, this is not necessary as our temperatures get cool enough.

2. Choose the site where you want to add spring blooming bulbs. Most bulbs need ample sunshine. However, if they are an early bloomer, you can plant them under deciduous trees and the bulbs will have saved enough energy before the trees leaf out. The other important consideration is drainage. Bulbs need good drainage. If the soil stays too wet, the bulbs will rot.

3. The bulbs can be planted two ways, by excavating the entire area (this works well if you are planting a large number of bulbs) or individually. Follow the recommended depth guidelines for the type of bulb you are planting. If the soil is dry, be sure to water well after planting. And don’t worry too much about which end of the bulb is up. The bulbs know to send shoots up and roots down so they will adjust.

4. Sit back and wait to enjoy the beauty next spring!

Having a bulb planter can make this fall task go much quicker. Click HERE to purchase one from Natural Havens.