How Deep to Plant Flower Bulbs

Plant gladiolus corms 4 to 6 inches in depth.

"Bulb" loosely describes fleshy, underground structures that some plants use to store nutrients during winter to fuel spring growth. Avoid planting soft, moldy, bruised bulbs or those showing other signs of damage or disease.

Spring Bulbs

Plant spring bulbs---bulbs for plants whose flowers bloom in spring---two to three times as deep as the bulb is tall, according to the University of Illinois Extension. For example, plant large bulbs, such as tulips or daffodils, about 8 inches deep; plant smaller bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep. Measure the hole's depth from the bottom of the bulb.

Summer Bulbs

Summer bulbs---bulbs for plants whose flowers bloom in summer---have different planting requirements. Information on planting depth is supplied with purchased bulbs. For example, plant gladiolus bulbs, which are technically corms, in early May at a depth of 4 to 6 inches, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service recommends.

Deep vs. Shallow Planting

If a judgment is required, it is better to plant bulbs too deeply than too shallowly, the Ohio State University Extension says. Water bulbs immediately after planting. Watering settles the bed's soil and provides moisture for bulbs to begin rooting. Don't over water, as bulbs can rot.

References

• Cornell University Home Gardening: How to Plant Bulbs
• Cornell University Home Gardening: Planting Options
• University of Illinois Extension: Bulbs and More
• North Carolina Cooperative Extension: Summer and Fall Flowering Bulbs for the Landscape
• Ohio State University Extension: Herbaceous Ornamentals---Perennials, Annuals and Bulbs

Resources

• Unversity of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service: Forcing Spring Bulbs