The Neglectful Gardener - Planting Fall Bulbs
There are many advantages to planting flowering bulbs in the fall. First, most bulbs are perennials. So, once you plant the bulbs they should return year after year. Also, you can plant the bulbs on a cool autumn afternoon, wait until spring or summer and enjoy. None of the heavy lifting involved with digging holes for potted plants.
Fall is the best time of year to plant bulbs, before the ground freezes. Depending on where you live that could be anywhere from early October to mid November.
Summer Casual went to the Farmer's Almanac website and found these great tips for planting bulbs (http://www.almanac.com/content/fall-bulb-planting-spring-blooms).
- Select high quality bulbs. Cheap bulbs will likely disappoint.
- Larger bulbs will usually provide a larger bloom.
- Weed the area where you plan to put your bulbs.
- Plant soon after purchase.
- Plant your bulbs in a sunny spot. In the ground or in a planter. Either is fine.
- Be sure the soil drains well.
- Plant lots of bulbs. Not all of them will sprout.
- Cluster the different varieties for visual impact. Meaning, put tulips together and daffodils together. Don't mix bulb types too much unless you want a wilder look.
- Space the bulbs well apart. The Farmer's Almanac suggest the width of 3 bulbs.
- Dig a little. The bulb should be placed at a depth 2-3 times the size of the bulb.
- Place the bulb pointy side up.
- Cover with good soil and give the bulbs a good soak.
- Cover with mulch to maintain moisture.
- Wait and enjoy in spring.
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| Many varieties of flowering bulbs are available at Canadian Tire. |
Wait! I've done this before and all kinds of critters eat my bulbs. What should I do? Some gardeners put down mesh or chicken wire that they pull up when the sprouts begin to come to surface. Another method that works for some is to mix red pepper flakes into the soil. It doesn't hurt the bulb but most animals do not like the hot taste and smell.
If you want more assurance than this the Farmer's Almanac has published a page on rodent-proof bulbs. Click here to read: http://www.almanac.com/blog/gardening/gardening/rodent-proof-flower-bulbs.
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| Crocus Bulbs - Available at the Home Depot.http://www.homedepot.com/s/flowering%2520bulbs?NCNI-5 |
Once you are done with your gardening enjoy a cool drink on your deck or patio. For some great recipe ideas, check out Summer Casual's Garden in a Glass. Enjoy!
