Spring flowering bulbs can be planted until frost makes planting impossible. Late September to mid October is the most desirable time in our area. Daffodils and Hyacinth should be planted before the first of October. Bulbs need at least four weeks in the soil before the ground freezes to develop a good root system.

Plant small bulbs such as crocus and grape hyacinth about 2 inches deep (to bottom of hole) and 3 inches apart. The larger bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths should be planted 4 to 6 inches deep depending on bulb size and 6 to 8 inches apart. Plant all bulbs of the same variety at the same depth to insure that they will all bloom at the same time. Bulbs can be included in your foundation plantings, flower borders, or in front of shrubs. A clumps of 6 to 18 bulbs of a particular variety usually will give the most effective show of color next spring.

Spring flowering bulbs prefer a light, well drained soil. They will not thrive in low, moist area where water is likely to stand. In our area, they can be grown successfully if good drainage is provided. Spade the future bed 10 to 12 inches deep before the bulbs are planted. Well worked soil is essential to good bulb performance.

Spring flowering bulbs are much more likely to over winter if covered with some sort of mulch as soon as the soil begins to freeze. Lawn clippings, clean straw, marsh hay or similar light materials are satisfactory. Take off the mulch as soon as snow melts since these bulbs emerge very early.

This page was last updated May 2003

Back to Information Page

Back to Horticulture Page