Tips for Planting Bulbs
If you want your garden bursting with color after winter, planting before the first freeze is key. Some bulbs will give you just one glorious season, while others will return year after year. Either way, they’re a simple investment that pays off in beauty.
Here’s how to set your bulbs up for success:
- Choose a spot with well-drained soil and full sun.
Enrich the soil by mixing in compost. - Dig each hole to a depth about three times the width of the bulb.
- Plant generously, since not all bulbs sprout; more is better.
- For a more natural look, scatter bulbs instead of planting in straight rows.
- Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer and water thoroughly after planting.
- Top with a layer of mulch to lock in moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Types of Bulbs to Plant This Fall
With so many bulb options, it’s best to choose varieties that thrive in your local climate. In the DC area, here are some great picks:
- Late winter blooms: Grape Hyacinth, Winter Aconite
- Early spring color: Crocus, Daffodils
- Classic spring showstoppers: Tulips (lasting from early spring into late)
- Extended bloomers: Bearded Iris and Siberian Iris, continuing into summer
Preparing Your Garden for the Seasons Ahead
Rather than winding down your gardening routine in the fall, think of it as planting the first chapter of next year’s garden story. With the right bulbs, your spring landscape will come alive with color.
At Shorb Landscaping, our team of experts can help design and prepare your lawn and garden for year-round beauty. Call us today at 301-897-3503 to get started.
