It’s tough to think about spring flowers when we are just starting to feel like it’s fall, but it’s time to put the planning in, and there will be a big pay off. Trust me on this, you will be happy that you did! A big part of being a gardener is planning and patience. Right now it’s time for Fall Bulb Planting!! And I’m all about the Daffodils & Tulips.

If you read our article about selecting the best bulbs then you probably have have an excellent selection and are ready to start planning and planting. Let me give you the WHEN, WHERE, HOW & WHY of Daffodil & Tulip Bulb Planting.

When Should I begin Planting my Bulbs?

Timing is everything here. Fall is bulb planting time! Planting time is September, October and November (up until we can’t dig anymore). As late as the soil can be worked.

Where are the best spots to plant your bulbs?

Select your location. Sun to part sun is optimal, a spot that has good drainage, and soil that is slightly acidic. You can plant groups of spring bulbs in an existing garden or put them in a bed of their own. Wherever I plant them, I like to plant in groups of odd numbers (garden design tip here). No singles…or rows of little soldiers. Groups of bulbs will look more naturalized.

How to Plant your bulbs?

Start by digging a hole about a foot in diameter, and plant 7-9 bulbs in it so it looks like a little mass planting/group of flowers. Dig the hole at a depth 2-3 times taller than the bulb, place them tips up (they look like fat Hershey kisses) giving them roughly and inch space from one another. If you want some extra insurance, you can incorporate some bulb fertilizer in the bottom of the hole right before you place the bulbs. Cover with the soil that you put aside from the hole, tamp down and put them to bed for the winter! No need to water them at this time…. they are sleeping 🙂

Why Plant your bulbs in the Fall

BECAUSE I WILL BE SO HAPPY IN THE SPRING THAT I DID! For me, its a sign that winter is over. It’s tough when it’s the end of the season if your out there gardening all year. You kind of lose momentum. But….when winter is over and I’m so looking forward to seeing flowers, I am so happy I put in the time and effort!! Daffodils=pure spring joy. Put some time aside now and the planning will pay off in the spring.

Ok, so now the tough part. The patience! That’s where you come in….A little planning goes a long way