Planting Fall Bulbs

A common misconception held by those who are not familiar with gardening is that all the flowers that bloom during the growing season are planted in the early spring. However, for flowers such as tulips and daffodils and other bulb flowers, the fall is the time to plant in order to insure a spring time bloom. By following these few simple tips, you can be a fall bulb-planting expert.

1. The size of the flowering when it blooms in the spring is directly related to the size of the bulb you plant in the fall. The bigger the bulb the bigger the flower and vice versa. A small tulip bulb is generally 10 to 11 centimeters in diameter, medium is 11 to 12 and a large one is 12 or more centimeters. Depending on your preference any size of bulb can be purchased online or at your local nursery.

2. It is important to inspect the bulbs you are buying prior to planting. A healthy bulb will feel strong and firm. If this is not the case, it is likely that they were not stored properly. Although bulbs will have a few marks on them, do not buy or plant bulbs that have mold and fungus growing on them. Many bulbs have an onion like coating on the outside known as a tunic. This tunic is often cracked or peeling and is of no concern to you because it has no relation to the bulbs health.

3. When planting your bulbs, it is very important that you do so at the right time. This must be done before the ground freezes in the fall. The general consensus being that the optimal planting time is when the average night temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees. Planting early encourages fungus growth and disease.

4. When planting your bulbs, it is important to know the correct depth to put them at. If you plant to close to the surface they will freeze and die. Most bulbs should be planted about 6 inches below the surface, but it is important to do your research because some smaller bulbs should be planted at lower depths.

5. Unlike some seeds, bulbs do not survive out of the ground indefinitely. If you miss the optimal planting time don't wait till next spring or fall. Rather, take your chances and plant them even if it is in the middle of winter.

6. Winter mulch is very important to the health of your bulbs. Not only does it provide nutrients to the soil, but also aides in thawing the ground. Your bulbs will thank you for it in the spring.

By following these few simple tips, you should have no problem finding success in planting and then growing excellent bulbs.