As we embrace the cooler days of fall, it's the perfect time to start thinking about your garden's future. Yes, now is the ideal moment to plant those bulbs to ensure a vibrant display of flowers from early spring to late summer. Whether you're looking to enhance your home's curb appeal or simply enjoy a garden full of color, understanding which bulbs to plant and when will set you up for success.
Choosing the Right Bulbs for Continuous Blooming
1. Early Spring Bloomers: Kick off the season with a pop of color. Crocuses, snowdrops, and early daffodils are among the first to greet the spring. Plant them in clusters in your flower garden, under trees, or along pathways to enjoy their cheerful blooms.
2. Mid-Spring Flowers: As the season progresses, tulips, hyacinths, and mid-season daffodils take center stage. These bulbs come in a dazzling array of colors and shapes, offering endless possibilities for creativity in your garden layouts.
3. Late Spring to Early Summer: Bearded irises, alliums, and late tulips will keep your garden lively as the early bloomers begin to fade. These plants not only add variety in height and form but also attract pollinators to your garden.
4. Full Summer Flowers: For a garden that remains vibrant through the summer, consider planting bulbs like lilies and gladiolus. These taller flowering plants can create a dramatic backdrop for earlier bloomers or stand alone as stunning focal points.
Where to Buy Bulbs in Bulk
Planting a variety of bulbs can be cost-effective, especially when purchased in bulk. Here are some websites that offer quality bulbs at competitive prices:
DutchGrown: Renowned for their high-quality bulbs shipped directly from Holland, they offer competitive bulk pricing, perfect for larger garden projects.
Eden Brothers: A great source for a wide selection of bulbs. They often have sales and bulk discounts, making it easier to buy more and save.
Van Engelen: This wholesale supplier has a vast array of bulbs at very reasonable prices, ideal for filling large spaces or for commercial landscaping needs.
Costco: If you're a member, keep an eye out for their seasonal garden offerings. They sometimes offer bulb packages in bulk at very attractive prices.
Tips for Planting Your Bulbs
Timing is Everything: Plant your bulbs as soon as the ground is cool, when evening temperatures average between 40° to 50°F. In many zones, this is typically during October and November.
Location, Location, Location: Most flower bulbs prefer full sun (at least 6 hours daily) and well-draining soil. Avoid areas where water collects, as this can cause bulbs to rot.
Planting Depth and Spacing: As a general rule, plant bulbs at a depth three times the height of the bulb. Space them about twice the bulb’s width apart. This prevents overcrowding and allows for ample growth.
Water Wisely: Give your newly planted bulbs a good watering to settle the soil around them. After this, you can ease up, as fall and winter rains will generally provide enough moisture.
By planning ahead and planting in the fall, you're setting the stage for a garden. Happy planting, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with your gardening successes and questions!
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