How to Care for Spring-Blooming Bulbs

Spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils and tulips are among the most reliable and colorful flowers. Care for them properly and many will bloom for years on end. Keep in mind, though, that tulips in particular have trouble lasting for more than a year in mild climates - replant them annually.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bypass Pruners
• Fertilizers
• Garden Hoses
• Spring-flowering Bulbs

1. Water bulbs whenever they are actively growing - usually from early spring to late spring. Keep the soil evenly moist; don't let it dry out or remain soggy.

2. Remove faded blossoms so the plants can direct energy into new flowers or next year's bloom.

3. Fertilize plants immediately after their flowering ends; use a complete fertilizer, containing nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

4. Let bulbs go dormant naturally. Don't remove foliage after bloom.

5. Allow the bulbs to dry out (just quit watering) after the foliage begins to turn yellow. Most spring bulbs prefer dry soil during summer.

6. Dig, divide and replant the bulbs when crowded (usually every three or four years).

7. Apply a light application of a high-nitrogen fertilizer just as the bulbs begin to grow in spring.

Tips & Warnings

• If post-bloom foliage is unsightly, gently pull the leaves together in a bunch; tie the leaves in a knot so they can be hidden under other plants.
• If you cut back leaves too soon after the bulbs have bloomed, you'll reduce the number of flowers in coming years.