The second system uses 10-10-10 in the fall, followed by a repeat application of the same fertilizer as soon as you see new shoots breaking through the ground in late winter. Incorporate the fertilizer into the rooting area. The first system utilizes a single application at planting using a slow release bulb fertilizer. There are two fertilizer methods available for spring-flowering bulbs. In addition, fertilization encourages bulbs to naturalize. If the fall is dry, water as needed.įertilization improves bulb performance.

Most bulbs are sensitive to hand weeding, mulch and grass weed killers. After covering the bulbs with soil, water thoroughly. Plant dozens of bulbs in an area to create a more effective flower display. Be certain to thoroughly loosen the soil under the bulbs. These planting depths will help protect the bulbs against frost, animals and physical damage due to hoeing or other gardening chores. Space large bulbs (tulips and daffodils) 3 to 6 inches apart. Large-size bulbs (2 or more inches in height) plant 8 inches deep. Space small bulbs (crocus and snowdrop) 1 to 2 inches apart. Small-sized bulbs (1 inch in height) plant 5 inches deep. Measure from the base of the bulb to soil level: This improves aeration and drainage for the roots. Before replanting, excavate new beds deeply, to as much as a one-foot depth. In established bulb beds, summer is a good time to divide old plantings to ensure continuous flowering and bulb health. Some bulb types, such as crocus, muscari and allium, can be inter planted in the same area based on time of flowering and plant heights. They do best in areas that receive light shade during midday, especially in hotter zone 8 gardens.

Use spring-flowering bulbs in borders with annuals or perennials, groundcovers, rock gardens and wooded areas. If you need assistance in this area contact your county Extension Center for a soil test kit. Studies at NC State University indicate that commercial bulb fertilizer is the preferred method of supplying nutrients. One of the myths with bulb planting is that bonemeal gives better results. Frequently, both limestone and phosphorus fertilizer are deficient in new planting beds. The pH of the planting area should be in the 6-7 range. Soil pH is another critical issue for longevity of bulb plantings. If the soil is sandy, add an organic amendment to increase water and nutrient holding capacity. Or plant in raised beds that are well prepared. If the soil is mostly clay, mix in an organic amendment such as compost or aged pine bark, 25 percent or more by volume. Poorly aerated soil is probably the biggest factor in bulbs that fail to naturalize and return year after year. Good soil drainage is essential for spring-flowering bulbs. For most of North Carolina that is October or November. It is best to wait until the ground has cooled to below 60 degrees before planting. Bulbs are planted in the fall in order for them to develop a root system and to satisfy the cold requirement necessary for the robust, colorful flower buds.

Thousands of tulips and daffodils find their way into gardens each year. Fall is the best time to plant spring-flowering bulbs to create a kaleidoscope of color next spring.

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