There is virtually no limit to the various ways you can utilize bulbs in your garden. They can add a splash of colour to any corner, pot or container and can be used alone or in concert with other flowering plants for a beautiful spring or summer show.

Spring Bulbs or Fall Bulbs?

If you’re wondering what the difference between spring and fall bulbs are, it’s fairly straightforward: Fall bulbs, which commonly include crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths, irises, and tulips, are planted in the fall and will flower the following spring.

Conversely, spring bulbs cannot tolerate the frigid temperatures of deep winter, and are instead planted in the spring. They will flower the same year, often late in the spring or during the summer months. Common spring bulbs include dahlias, elephant ears, gladiolus, and liles (asiatic, calla, canna, and oriental).

Planting Spring Bulbs

The best time to plant spring bulbs is after all risk of freezing temperatures and hard frosts has passed. A good rule of thumb is: if it isn’t safe to plant tomatoes, it isn’t safe to plant spring bulbs. Alternatively, start your spring bulbs indoors in a sunny window and take them outside when it is safe to do so. Most bulbs require lots of sun – at least six hours of direct sun each day, and good drainage is (usually) important. When picking out bulbs, ensure you pick the largest ones – bigger is almost always better when it comes to bulbs.

If your bulbs come with instructions, follow the recommendations on the label of each type of bulb. If there are no instructions, a general rule is to plant your bulbs at a depth that is three times the diameter of the bulb.

It’s advisable to sprinkle some bone meal (2-14-0) in the bottom of your planting hole. Bone meal promotes root and flower production. Make sure to place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end up. Water your bulbs immediately after planting, but don’t water them again until you see shoots appear.

Want more helpful bulb tips, including instructions on winter storage? Check out our All About Bulbs resource for further advice.

Sick of squirrels digging up your bulbs? Read our Common Critters and Repellants tip sheet for some helpful tips.