The Brightest Bulbs on the Block: Planting for Spring Flowers

by Karen Lawson
HomeOwnerNet Columnist

Spring-flowering bulbs including crocus, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths require cold weather in order to bloom in spring. If you live in temperate climates, you'll need to keep your bulbs cold in the freezer for several weeks before planting them. Bulbs produce brightly colored flowers, and some also have attractive scents. If you don’t have a garden, don’t despair. Some bulbs, such as daffodils, paper whites, and hyacinths, can be grown indoors or outdoors in containers.

Selecting and Planting the Right Bulbs

Bulbs are widely available in home and garden supply outlets, home and garden shows, and local nurseries. You can also buy bulbs online. It's important to make sure that the bulbs you choose can grow well in your area. Know your USDA zone, and ask vendors if recommended growing zones aren't indicated for the bulbs you want to buy.

Typically, bulbs should be planted shortly after you buy them. Follow package or vendor's planting instructions. It can be tempting overcrowd bulbs, but this can impede growth and potential naturalization. Providing bulbs wit enough room to absorb light and nutrients is important. Planning your garden to provide maximum visibility by planting bulbs that will grow to different heights can help display your garden to best effect. Crocuses and dwarf daffodils work well as borders or in rock gardens, while taller tulips and daffodils can "show off" from the middle or back section of your lawn and garden. Sporadic placement of bulbs within garden areas achieves a natural effect that is pleasing to the eye. Spring flowering bulbs do well in well drained soil, but will need plenty of water once they bloom. Covering bulbs with mulch can help protect them during harsh winter conditions. Buy your bulbs early, as garden supply centers and nurseries may run out of popular bulbs.

About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about nature and the environment. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

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