How to Plant Bulbs in Fall

Spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips and hyacinths are generally planted in fall. Here's how to do it right and ensure a wonderfully colorful spring.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bulb Planters
• Fertilizers
• Garden Hoses
• Spring-flowering Bulbs

1. Select bulb types as described in "eHow to Shop for Flowering Bulbs.'
2. Arrange for delivery, or make your purchase, so you can plant in fall. If necessary, chill bulbs such as tulips and hyacinths (which need a certain amount of cold weather to bloom properly) by storing them in the refrigerator for six to eight weeks before planting.
3. Improve the soil, if necessary, by incorporating ample organic matter. Soil preparation is not always necessary as long as drainage is good.
4. With a shovel or trowel, dig holes the appropriate depth for your bulb type. Consult packaging, catalogs or a book on bulbs for planting depth. A depth of two to three times the width of the bulb is a good rule of thumb.
5. Add bulb fertilizer to the bottom of the hole and roughly mix it into the soil.
6. Place the bulb in the hole. Make sure you have the right side up (usually point up, roots down). The bottom of the bulb should rest firmly on the bottom of the hole.
7. Refill the planting hole, tamping the soil lightly.
8. Water the bulbs thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Many spring-flowering bulbs can be planted under deciduous trees. They will bloom before the tree leafs out and shades the planting area.
• There are many tools to help you when planting a lot of bulbs. Some make perfect holes by removing small cylinders of soil. Others are augerlike and can be attached to electric drills. Alternatively, dig a long trench instead of individual holes.

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