Tips for Growing Spring Garden Bulbs

There are many tips for growing spring garden bulbs that will make your garden really pop in the spring time. Growing bulbs is effortless, and there are many flowers that make a lovely addition to your spring garden. This article will provide you with detailed tips for growing spring garden bulbs.

Timing

Just like with life, timing is everything when planting spring garden bulbs. Deciding when to plant your bulbs depends completely on where you live. Bulbs will need a few weeks to develop a root system, but you do not want them to sprout before it is their time. Colder zones should plant in late August or early September, and warmer zones can plant from October to November. As long as your bulbs have about 4 weeks to develop some roots before the ground freezes you are on the right path.

Planting the Bulb Correctly

It is easy to tell which side of the bulb should be facing upward on many bulbs, but tubers and corms can be a little more difficult. These types of spring bulbs will develop a gradual slope to a smaller size, and they will have roots attached to them. Also look out for areas that roots might have snapped off from to determine which side to plant up or down. If you miscalculate the correct side when planting your plant will probably still sprout, but it may have some difficulties because it is growing in an awkward direction towards the sun and warmth.

Feeding and Mulching

Bulbs naturally store nutrients inside the bulb itself, but they will do well when fertilized as well. Add fertilizer or compost to bulbs in the fall when they become dormant and again right before spring. Mulching bulbs is a good way to make sure the ground around them does not freeze, than, and refreeze. This can be very harmful to your plants; it may force your bulbs to come out of the ground and die. Mulch your bulbs after the ground has frozen in cold areas to maintain the temperature. If you live in warm climates you can mulch after planting.

Propagating Bulbs

You can dig up and transplant your bulbs easily to propagate them. Start by digging several inches away from your plant. When bulbs form they will spread out from the original plant. Loosen the dirt around the roots, and use a shovel to lightly pop the bulb out of the ground. Shake dirt loose and gently pull bulbs apart.

These easy tips for growing spring bulbs will make you garden stand out in the spring time. Spring bulbs are a great way to get involved in gardening at the end of the season. They will add beauty and delight to your garden as soon as the temperature starts to warm up.