One of nature’s wonders….. Bulbs!

October 2, 2014

Holland is now the world’s largest producer of bulbs. However, their history in Europe is legendary. Bulbs, at one time, could run you the cost of a house or horse!

In 1900 the new and highly sought after King Alfred Daffodil cost the equivalent of a month’s salary for just one single bulb.

Fortunately, bulbs are far more available and affordable today. New exciting varieties are developed each year. Fall flower bulbs should be planted six weeks before the ground freezes; as soon as the ground cools. So, this is the perfect time to start planning the design for your spring garden! A few tips to keep in mind:

1. Once you have selected the variety you plan to incorporate into your garden design it is very important that you choose the right area to plant your bulbs. Some will prefer shade and others the sun.
2. Keep in mind that your bulbs will come up in the Spring, before the deciduous trees leaf out. So an area under a tree may be shady now, but when it looses its leaves over the winter that will change dramatically.
3. When selecting bulbs look for early, mid and late blooms so you can extend the bloomtime through February, March and April.
4. Look for large firm bulbs with a clean surface and no root growth.
5. The earlier you shop the more likely you will find high quality bulbs.
6. When planting be sure to loosen the soil and add fertilizer that is specifically used for bulbs.
7. Once the bulbs are planted cover them with water and soil.
8. Drainage is essential. If the area is too wet the bulbs will rot over the winter.
9. Be sure to pay attention the the instructions on the package. It will tell you how deep and wide to plant the bulbs.
10. Plant short flowers in front of the tall ones or you can layer them in a container…just be sure to plant the larger bulbs a bit deeper.
11. You can plant your bulbs that need shade with your hostas and the bulbs that require sun with your day lillies
12. Make sure you pick a design that you really like! With the exception of tulips, most bulbs will come back year after year and spread throughout your garden.
13. Lastly, for my procrastinators, please be sure to plant before the ground freezes!!

Follow these simple tips and before you know it a beautiful medley of flowers will fill your garden. As always, happy gardening.

Melwood’s Horticulture Therapy program was established in 1963. Sheila Gallagher, the Manager of Horticulture Programs and Melwood’s Garden Center is a Certified Professional Horticulturalist (CPH) and Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR). Visit Melwood’s Garden Center to purchase your next tropical plant! Proceeds from plant sales go towards supporting Melwood programs including horticulture therapy for individuals with disabilities.