How to Plant Perennial Bulbs

Before planting perennial bulbs several things must first be done. The planting site needs to be cleared, the soil needs to be prepared, proper spacing should be planned, and holes need to be dug. The best time to plant most perennials is in the spring so that the root systems will be established before winter.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• perennial bulbs
• a shovel for digging
• an area for planting

Use this guide when planting perennial bulbs.

1. Check to see if the planting site meets the requirements according to the instruction label. The site should be cleared of any weeds before planting. Once the plants are established, the perennial weeds will be difficult to remove. The entire planting area may need to be treated with an appropriate weedkiller in advance. If, however, there are only a few weeds, they can be removed quite easily either by pulling and removing the root system or by using a garden fork.

2. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter or compost to the bed and mixing it to the existing soil. By adding organic matter, the use of fertilizer is usually not necessary during the first growing season. In addition, the use of organic matter or compost aids in water retention and improves drainage.

3. Plan out your planting pattern. This planning stage is often overlooked by novice perennial gardeners and often results in a collection of haphazard collection of plant materials. Be sure to read the accompanying label for suggested placement ideas. Taking the time for this important step will result in a beautiful and satisfying display.

4. Plant the perennials as soon as possible. Do not leave plants sitting around in their original containers long after buying them. Remove the plants from their containers by gently tapping and flexing the pots until they become loose.

5. Dig a hole approximately 1 1/2 times wider and deeper than the plant's root ball. Carefully tease out the roots around the sides and bottom of the root base. This gives the roots a little head start in their new location. Set the plants at the same level in the ground as they were in the containers. Gently firm the soil around the plants and water thoroughly after planting.

6. Add a slow-release fertilizer if planting perennials in containers. Be sure that the container is stable and is large enough for the root systems to develop. Proper drainage is also very important for healthy plants.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that the plants have adequate water throughout the summer. Most plants require about an inch of water per week. This may need to be increased in hotter, dry climates.
• Fertilizer is usually not needed during the first year if the soil was prepared properly with organic matter or compost.
• Keep weeds as bay by mulching or applying herbicides.
• Some perennials may need to be staked for added support during harsh weather conditions.
• Avoid light watering, which encourages shallow roots and less stable plants.
• Use care when using fertilizer. Over-fertilization can result in spindly, weak plants. Over-fertilization can also cause scorching or yellowing of the leaves.