How to Plant Spring Hardy Bulbs for Vibrant Early Spring Blooms

Planting Spring Hardy Bulbs: October to November Guide

October to November is a great time to plant spring hardy bulbs such as tulips, crocus, daffodils, bulb irises, and hyacinths, which provide explosive color during the otherwise dreary months of March and April. These bulbs need several cold winter months to produce good roots. If you plant too late, in January or February, the bulbs won’t have enough time to produce a strong root system.

Choosing Bulbs
Buy the largest bulbs — solid, plump, firm — you can find to get the best blooms. Skip the bulbs in the bargain basement bin, and also avoid ones with soft spots, blemishes, or mold. Once purchased, try to plant the bulbs as soon as you can. Otherwise, store them loosely in paper bags in your refrigerator or a cool and dry place.

Planting Location
Make sure you plant the bulbs in a location with good drainage. Most bulbs can’t tolerate wet feet and will rot. Add organic matter (compost or aged manure) to clay soils to improve drainage. Most spring bulbs require at least 5-6 hours of sun. Avoid planting them under large trees, where they won’t get enough sunlight.

Planting Depth
Plant according to the size of the bulb. Generally, this means digging a hole about two to three times as deep as the bulb is wide. For small bulbs such as crocuses and snowdrops, dig a hole about 4-6 inches deep. Meanwhile, larger bulbs such as tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils will need to be planted about 8 inches deep. Follow the directions on the package if available.

Fertilizing and Aftercare
Mix good fertilizer (10-10-10 or bulb fertilizer) into the hole when you plant. A bit of bonemeal or blood meal, which are high in phosphorus, will also help the bulb develop good roots. Fertilize again in the spring when the shoots break through the ground, but don’t fertilize once they have started flowering. After the bulbs are in the ground, soak with water to allow the soil to settle.