Let’s Plant Bulbs

Let’s Plant Bulbs

Most of the flowers we treasure in the spring emerge from bulbs, and fall is the time to get those bulbs planted so we can reap colorful rewards come spring. Flower farmers know that tulips and daffodils are among the springtime stars in high demand as the cold winter months are waning. Everyone, especially customers, are anxious for spring blooms as temperatures warm and spring arrives. Be sure to plant a plentiful crop—and take steps to ensure they’re planted as required for a bountiful season.tulip flowers

If you haven’t already done so, get your soil ready for the arrival of your bulbs. Don’t hold off until temperatures drop and autumn rains fall—if you wait, it will be harder to motivate yourself to work outdoors.

And if you haven’t already ordered your bulbs, check out the selection here at K. van Bourgondien. Some varieties are still available. Remember, the clock is ticking. Your spring season could be greatly affected by what you didn’t order. I speak from experience.

Fall-planted bulbs need a period of cold temperatures to ensure spring blooming. September through November is the general time frame for getting bulbs in the ground. However, the optimal planting window varies by USDA garden zone, so follow planting recommendations for your zone. Sometimes, you can get away with planting later if the ground hasn’t frozen. Based on my experience, the ideal time to dig trenches or single holes for fall-planted bulbs is about six weeks before a good freeze.flower Bulb

Keep three things in mind when planting bulbs: location, drainage and planting depth. Plant your bulbs in well-draining soil in a location where they’ll receive the recommended amount of light. One general rule about planting depth is to plant two to three times as deep as the bulb is tall. Most large bulbs such as tulips and daffodils should be planted 6″ deep, while smaller bulbs should be planted 3–4″ deep. Be sure to measure from the surface of your soil to the top of the bulb.

On another note, fall is also the time to gather your garden tools for winter storage. Winter weather can take a toll on tools left out in the elements. Here at the farm, we bring our tools inside the garden shed and push spades, shovels, shears and such into a large bucket filled with sand and mineral oil. This helps extend the life of our tools and keeps farm expense down.

I hope this blog post finds you ready to plant bulbs and looking forward to gorgeous spring blooms.

 

Happy Gardening!

Pamela Anthony

Beehind Thyme Farm & Garden