How to Dig a Hole for Perennial Bulbs

Planting perennial bulbs is easy and rewarding when you know how to plant for successful blooms.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spade
• Topsoil
• Bulb

1. 
   Crocus angustifolius bulb

   Start with good topsoil, choosing a flower bed with good water drainage. If possible, prepare the bed by working fertilizer or compost into the first foot (12 inches) of soil.

2. 
   Sprouted bulb

   Measure your bulbs. The rule for depth is that a bulb should be planted at least 3 times as deep as the bulb is wide. If your daffodil or tulip bulb is 2 inches wide, plant it at least 6 to 8 inches deep.

3. If you are planting multiple bulbs in a larger plot, it's best to dig 1 large hole, rather than individual holes for each bulb. Dig a long trench or a squared-off hole and use a ruler to check the depth.

4. Flowers look best arranged in a cluster formation rather than a straight line. Place your bulbs in a random cluster, and make sure they are placed pointy side up.

5. 
   Plant with bulb

   When your bulbs are arranged to your satisfaction, fill your hole back up with soil, being careful not to displace or overturn the bulbs. Water them to allow the soil to settle and get moisturized.

Tips & Warnings

• Some bulbs benefit from the addition of a little limestone or bone meal.
• Bulbs must be planted pointing upwards.