Bulbs for the Winter and Spring Garden

Fall is the season for planting winter and spring blooming bulbs. Nothing brightens my spirits more on a cold winter day than the site of crocuses blooming in the snow. I know I am not the only one who welcomes the site of the first late winter and early spring blooms.

Two years ago, my block association planted daffodils (free from New Yorkers for Parks) in our tree beds. Upon seeing them, everyone walking down our block had a smile on their face and a pep in their step. 

When planning the winter and spring garden, don’t limit yourself to daffodils and tulips; there is a larger variety of plants to chose from. Some of my favorites are: alliums, astilbes, hyacinths and peonies. 

Also, take note of blooming times. With the right mix of plants, you can have continuous blooms, from early winter, to early summer. I like to shop for bulbs from online retailers, as they offer a greater variety of plants, as well as packages containing an assortment of different plants.

Bulbs are easy to plant and do not require any special care or fertilizer. Plant bulbs in well-drained soil, following the spacing and depth requirements on package. Water well, and add a two to three inch layer of mulch. 

Bulbs look best and are more impactful when planted in clusters. You can make quick work of planting by using a bulb planter for large bulbs and dibble for smaller bulbs.

Two special notes when planting bulbs:

1. Tulips bulbs are a favorite food for squirrels and need some added protection. After planting the bulb  cover with ½ inch grid chicken wire or deer mesh before covering with soil.   

2. Bulbs will rot in soggy soil. If you are planning bulbs in a container, add some garden sand to the potting soil mix. A mix of four parts potting soil to one part sand will ensure that proper drainage and keep the bulbs from rotting.