How to Shop for Bulbs by Mail Order

For the most glorious flower display in spring, you need to order and plant great bulbs in fall. Mail-order catalogs provide the biggest selection. Here's how to shop wisely and get the best show possible.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pencils
• Pencils
• Pencils

1. Send for two or three mail-order bulb catalogs. If you don't have favorites, look for ads in garden magazines or check books on bulbs.

2. Peruse the catalog, jotting down possibilities based on color, bloom time, height, ability to grow in sun or shade, and climate adaptation.

3. Make sure to note how close the bulbs can be planted (the catalog may say, but you might have to double-check in a bulb book) so you know how many you need for each planting area.

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

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

6. Double-check catalog information on delivery times. Make sure they're right for your area.

7. Fill out the order form as described in the catalog. If you have questions, call the 800 number.

8. Mail in your order or order by phone. Pay by check or credit card.

Tips & Warnings

• Bulb catalogs generally start arriving in late spring and early summer. That's when you'll get the best deals and greatest selection - some varieties may be sold out later.
• If you order bulbs like tulips and hyacinths, which usually need chilling, make sure they'll be delivered early enough for you to store them in the refrigerator for eight weeks before planting. Or order 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.