How to Shop for Flowering Bulbs

Local nurseries and garden centers are convenient places to buy standard flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils. Generally, though, you'll find a wider selection in catalogs and online.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spring-flowering Bulbs
• Summer Bulbs

1. 
    

   Select bulb varieties and types based on color, bloom time, height, ability to grow in sun or shade, and climate adaptation. Much of this information will be on the packaging or in catalog descriptions.

2. 
    

   Choose healthy, firm bulbs, free of blemishes, bruises or soft spots. Usually bigger is better.

3. Choose the highest grade of bulb (if the bulbs are graded) unless cost is a major factor, as when purchasing large quantities. Higher-quality bulbs generally produce more flowers.

4. 
    

   Make sure to note how closely the bulbs can be planted (the descriptions may say, but you might have to double-check in a book on bulbs or ask the nursery salesperson). Spacing helps determine the quantity of bulbs needed for each planting area.

5. Select hardy spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, crocus and hyacinths, for fall planting.

6. Choose tender summer-flowering bulbs, such as begonias and gladiolus, for spring planting.

Tips & Warnings

• If you buy bulbs like tulips and hyacinths, which usually need chilling in mild climates, make sure you get them early enough to store in your refrigerator six to eight weeks before planting. Or purchase prechilled bulbs.
• Bargain bulbs are not always as good a deal as they may seem. They're often smaller or lower-quality bulbs that don't bloom as well as more expensive choices.