Bring Spring to Life by Planting Your Bulbs in the Fall

Fall is a time for cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and… planting bulbs? While it might seem counterintuitive to plant flowers when the weather is cooling down, autumn is actually the ideal time to get your garden ready for a vibrant spring display.

Planting bulbs in the fall allows them to establish strong root systems before winter sets in. This gives them a head start for a spectacular bloom come springtime. Here’s a guide to help you plant your bulbs successfully:

Choosing Your Bulbs
There are many beautiful spring-blooming bulbs to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Popular options include:

• Tulips: These classic blooms come in a dazzling array of colours and shapes.
• Fritillarias: These elegant flowers boast bell-shaped blooms with intricate patterns.
• Ornamental Alliums: These spherical flowers add a touch of drama and texture to the garden.
• Crocuses: These cheerful little flowers are among the first to emerge in spring, bringing a burst of colour to the landscape.

Planting Depth and Timing
The general rule of thumb for planting bulbs is to dig a hole two to three times the depth of the bulb. This ensures the bulb has enough space to develop its root system.

The best time to plant bulbs is before the ground freezes. This allows the bulbs to settle in and develop roots before the cold weather arrives.

Perennial vs. Hybrid Tulips
Most hardy bulbs, like daffodils and hyacinths, will come back year after year with minimal care. However, hybrid tulips are an exception. These varieties tend to decline in vigor over time.

To enjoy their vibrant blooms each spring, you can choose one of three options:

• Pull up the bulbs after they have finished blooming. This allows you to store them in a cool, dry place and replant them in the fall.
• Replant new tulip bulbs each fall. This ensures a fresh, vibrant display year after year.
• Choose species tulips. These varieties are more likely to naturalize and return year after year.

Planting Tips

• Prepare the soil: Before planting, loosen the soil and incorporate some compost to improve drainage and fertility.
• Space the bulbs: Leave enough space between bulbs to allow for air circulation and growth.
• Water thoroughly: After planting, water the bulbs well to help them settle in.
• Mulch the area: Applying a layer of mulch over the planted bulbs helps to insulate them and protect them from frost.

Enjoy the Springtime Show
By planting bulbs in the fall, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful display of colour and fragrance come springtime. So get out there and start planting! Your garden will thank you for it.