If you've always wanted to enjoy tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, iris and many others in colorful displays in your yard every spring, fall is the time to plant. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about planting bulbs.

When Should I Plant Bulbs?

The best time to plant fall bulbs is when soil begins to cool and evening temperatures reach 40 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting too soon may increase the risk of fungus and diseas.

What if I Forget to Plant Bulbs in the Fall?

If the fall months pass you by and you have bulbs you would still like to plant, it’s best to get them in the ground during the cold winter months. Unplanted bulbs only have a shelf life of about 12 months, with the ideal planting time being within 6 months. You can even slip bulbs into the ground during a late-winter warm spell during February and still enjoy spring blooms. 

Where Should I Plant Bulbs?

All spring-blooming bulbs do well in sunny locations and in well-drained soil. Certain bulbs tolerate a little shade, like daffodils and crocus, but all will require good drainage. Modify any poor drainage by ensuring there is plenty of organic material mixed into the soil when planting.   

Spring-blooming bulbs make excellent planting partners with perennial plants, which tend to grow in as bulbs are winding down. 

How Should I Plant Bulbs?

Keep the following basics in mind when planting bulbs:

  • Check the bulb packaging for planting depth and spacing between bulbs. Different varieties require different amounts of space around them.

  • To maximize color in your garden, pay attention to bloom dates and growth heights so blooms will work with other plants.

  • Plant bulbs in clusters to make a statement!  If you plant your bulbs in single-file rows, you'll lose that mass of color we adore.

  • Don’t cut corners on bulb prices. Keep in mind that the bigger the bulb, the more vigorous the flowers will be. Bulbs purchased in box stores are several sizes lower than what is offered in-store at Betty’s.

  • Fertilizing bulbs and conditioning the soil at the time of planting will allow your bulbs to put on the best show. We recommend “Betty’s Sweet Earth”, compost, and Bulbtone fertilizer.

If you're thinking of planning ahead to enjoy some spring color, visit Betty's for everything you need from prepackaged bulb combos to tools to fertilizer. Our staff will walk you through everything you need to know.