Fall Bulb planting for Spring Blooms

10/2/2020

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by Jill Selinger, Chicago Botanic Garden

at the Shirley Meneice Virtual Conference, Sept 22-23, 2020

submitted by Pam Wiley

(conference video here)

Tips on Planting Fall Bulbs for Spring Bloom

Plant your bulbs as soon as the weather turns consistently cool but before the ground has frozen. Soil that is rich in organic matter with a neutral pH will provide the best environment.
Since most bulbs prefer to be relatively dry during their dormant period, most perform best when planted in welldrained soil or in elevated beds. Most bulbs will not thrive in areas with poor drainage. Read the labels on individual bulb packages for specific instructions.
Ideally, you should space your bulbs about 6" apart. If you're looking for a lush display, you can plant 4" apart. Use the chart below as a guide to the proper planting depth for each variety. For bulbs not listed on this chart, a general rule of thumb for planting depth is three times the height of the bulb. Tulips are generally planted 6" deep and daffodils are planted between 6 and 8" deep. Loosen the soil 2 to 3 inches below the approximate planting depth to allow for optimum root development. Firmly place each bulb in the hole with the pointed end upright. If it is difficult to determine which is the top of the bulb, plant it on its side; it will grow upward and perform normally.
Carefully cover the bulbs with soil to prevent breaking off any sprout growth. Do not put fertilizer in the hole with the bulb, as it may burn the tender new roots as they develop. Top-dress with a bulb fertilizer upon planting and each autumn thereafter for best continuing spring bloom. A cover of mulch 2 to 3 inches thick helps to retain ground moisture, reduce weeds, and protect the bulbs from heaving when temperatures spike.
Water at least once after planting and at least once a week in spring if the garden does not receive a half-inch of rainfall per week during the growing season. Avoid planting bulbs in the path of daily dousing from an irrigation system. Dormant bulbs are susceptible to fungal diseases when subjected to constant dampness.
In spring, remove flowers when they have faded, leaving foliage to photosynthesize, a process necessary if flowers are to bloom again the following year. Never cut, tie, braid, or bend foliage; instead, remove it when it begins to yellow and fall over. Bulbs are best if left in the ground to refrigerate for the following year.

Plant List for Bulbs from Jill's Presentation

Early Species
Darwin Hybrid Tulips - Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, and you can expect two or three years of sizable flowers.