Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
Fall weather brings fire pits, flannel, and football. For gardeners, cooler temperatures also mean it’s time for one of the season’s best tasks—planting spring bulbs. Even beginner gardeners can have success planting bulbs and enjoy a burst of blooms come spring. The only challenge with spring bulbs is the wait. For those who prefer instant results, it can be a test of patience. But trust me, once you see those flowers, you’ll wish you had planted even more.
This year’s warm fall weather caused a slight delay in planting. Planting bulbs too early can result in premature sprouting. Now that November has ushered in cooler temperatures, it’s safe to begin planting. Tulips are a personal favorite, offering a range of varieties such as single early, double, Darwin hybrid, fringed, and parrot tulips. Once bitten by the tulip bug, you’ll understand the obsession known as “tulipmania” in the 1600s. If you’d like to learn more about this fascinating history, I recommend Tulipomania by Mike Dash.
If you grow tulips, be prepared for a battle with squirrels, who treat tulip bulbs as a delicacy. I’ve found that covering the soil with chicken wire after planting keeps these critters at bay.
To avoid pest problems, consider planting bulbs that squirrels, rabbits, and deer dislike. Daffodils, hyacinths, grape hyacinths, and alliums are great options. While planning your spring garden, keep in mind that each flower blooms at different times—daffodils may fade before tulips bloom, while alliums might wait until late spring. Flower packaging typically indicates bloom times, so you can plan color combinations accordingly. Plant tulips in clusters of five or more of the same color to achieve a bold, vibrant display.
Most spring bulbs need a sunny location, but deciduous trees losing their leaves in fall allow more sun to reach garden beds. By the time trees start leafing out, the bulbs are already well on their way. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil to prevent rot, with sandy soil providing the ideal conditions. Plant bulbs at a depth about three times the height of the bulb, and always place the pointed end facing up. If you’re planting tulips, lay a piece of chicken wire over the soil and secure it with a flat rock to deter wildlife.
Spring bulbs require a period of cold dormancy to bloom, a reminder that sometimes growth comes after a season of harshness. Planting bulbs in the fall is like burying treasure. When spring arrives, those hidden gems will burst forth, marking winter’s end with vibrant blooms.
If you’ve never planted spring bulbs, give it a try. They’re easy to grow and a delight to discover when spring returns. We’d love to hear from our readers: What’s your favorite spring bulb? Send your comments and questions to shorelocalgardener@gmail.com.
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
