Planting bulbs for spring blooms
Benefits of Planting Spring Bulbs in the Fall
As summer fades and autumn approaches, now is the ideal time to plan for a vibrant,
blooming garden next spring. Planting spring bulbs now ensures that your garden bursts
with color after the winter frost melts away. Here’s how you can plan for success and
enjoy a beautiful succession of blooms throughout the spring season.
Why Plant Bulbs in Fall?
The fall offers the perfect conditions for planting spring bulbs. The soil is still warm,
encouraging root development before the colder weather sets in. Early planting gives
your bulbs a head start, allowing them to establish strong roots that will help them
bloom at their best once spring arrives.
Planning for Bloom Succession
One of the joys of spring gardening is experiencing a continuous wave of blooms,
starting with early risers like crocuses and leading all the way to late bloomers such as
alliums. By carefully selecting bulbs with different bloom times, you can enjoy an
uninterrupted succession of color throughout the entire season.
Here’s a simple guide to planning your bloom succession:
Early Spring: Plant crocuses and snowdrops for the first signs of life as early
as late February.
Mid-Spring: Introduce daffodils and hyacinths for bright, fragrant blooms in
March and April.
Late Spring: Finish strong with tulips, alliums, and late-blooming daffodils for
dramatic color well into May.
By choosing a variety of bulbs that bloom at different times, you can create a stunning,
long-lasting display that evolves from early spring to late spring.
Planting Techniques for Success
1. Location: Select well-drained soil in a sunny to partly shaded spot. Avoid
waterlogged areas, as bulbs dislike excessive moisture.
2. Depth: Plant bulbs at a depth three times their height. For instance, plant a 2-
inch bulb 6 inches deep.
3. Spacing: Space bulbs appropriately to allow for full, healthy growth, with about
3-6 inches between bulbs.
4. Fertilization: Use Espoma Bulb-tone to provide essential nutrients. This slow-
release, organic fertilizer supports root development over the winter and
encourages robust blooms in the spring.
5. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and kickstart root
growth. Afterward, fall rains should provide adequate moisture.
Caring for Your Bulbs Through Winter
Once planted, bulbs require minimal care through the winter. Applying a light layer of
mulch helps regulate soil temperature and retains moisture, ensuring your bulbs remain
insulated and ready for their springtime debut.
Adding Bulbs to Planters
Spring bulbs can also be planted in containers that are overwintered outdoors. Use
frost-resistant planters and layer bulbs for a succession of blooms in small spaces.
Larger bulbs like tulips can be placed deeper in the container, while smaller bulbs like
crocuses can be planted closer to the surface. Make sure the planters are well-drained
and placed in a sheltered spot to protect them from the worst winter weather.
Final Thoughts
Planting spring bulbs in the Fall is a simple yet impactful way to ensure your garden
comes alive with color after winter. With thoughtful planning for bloom succession and
proper care, you can enjoy flowers from the first crocus to the last allium. Be sure to use
Espoma Bulb-tone to give your bulbs the best start for a stunning display next spring.
Visit Scenic Roots Garden Center to explore our selection of spring bulbs and get
everything you need to start planning your vibrant spring garden today!
