Fall Survival Checklist: Planting Bulbs for Spring: Which End Up?

Most spring-blooming bulbs need to be planted in the fall, usually from mid-October until the ground freezes. Many bulb varieties are perennials: they bloom year after year. 

Our Favorites:

Allium: Deer-resistant. Heights vary from a few inches tall to 3–4 feet tall. Common colors are purple and white, with some varieties in yellow.

Daffodils: Deer-resistant, resilient, with many varieties, including white, yellow, orange and pink. Early, mid and late blooming.

Fritillaria: Deer-resistant, tall, umbrella-like flower. Common colors include yellow, red and orange.

Muscari: Look great in masses; vibrant blue color.

Tulips: Amazing color choices, but deer’s favorite, too.

Follow the specific planting directions for the type of bulb you’re planting. In addition, here are some general guidelines:

• Plant in groups close together or in a naturalized pattern (simply toss the bulbs in the area you want and plant them where they land).
• Dig individual holes using a trowel or bulb planter.
• If you’re planting a lot of bulbs, dig a long trench.
• Plant bulbs soon after purchasing.
• Choose bulbs that are firm.
• Rule of thumb: Plant bulbs two to three times as deep as the bulb is tall.
• Plant large bulbs 6 inches apart, small bulbs 3 inches apart.
• Place bulbs with pointed ends up.
• Cover with 2–3 inches of mulch to protect the bulbs and retain moisture.

Did you know?  In the first spring after planting, many bulbs bloom later than established bulbs.

Courtesy of Sue Dean at NatureScapes, 2 MacDonald Ave., Armonk

More useful tips from What To Do’s Fall Survival Checklist.

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