Fall Bulb Planting Guide
As the heat of summer gradually gives way to the crisp coolness of autumn, gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike find themselves drawn to the enchanting world of fall bulbs. These dormant beauties have the power to transform your garden into a breathtaking tapestry of colours, shapes, and fragrances. In this guide, we’ll delve into the captivating realm of fall bulbs, exploring when and how to plant them and suggesting a variety of bulbs to consider for a stunning seasonal display.
When to Plant Fall Bulbs:
Fall bulbs are unique in that they’re planted well in advance of their blooming season, allowing them time to establish roots before the ground freezes. The ideal time to plant fall bulbs typically ranges from late summer to early autumn, depending on your climate zone. As a general guideline:
- Early Fall (Late August to Early September): If you reside in a colder climate, it’s advisable to start planting your bulbs early. This ensures they have enough time to develop strong root systems before the onset of frost.
- Mid-Fall (Mid to Late September): For regions with milder autumn temperatures, mid-fall is an excellent time to plant fall bulbs. The soil is still warm enough to facilitate root growth, while the risk of early frost is relatively low.
- Late Fall (October): In warmer climates, where frost arrives later, you might be able to plant fall bulbs as late as October. However, be mindful that the later you plant, the less time the bulbs have to establish themselves before winter.
How to Plant Fall Bulbs:
Planting fall bulbs requires some care and attention to detail to ensure they thrive and create a breathtaking display in the following spring. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Choose the Right Location: Most fall bulbs thrive in well-draining soil and prefer locations with ample sunlight. Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches, incorporating compost or well-rotted organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Planting Depth: As a general rule, plant bulbs at a depth that’s about two to three times their height. Larger bulbs should be planted deeper than smaller ones.
- Spacing: Space bulbs according to the guidelines on the packaging, typically a few inches apart. This prevents overcrowding and allows each bulb sufficient space to grow.
- Proper Orientation: Place the bulbs with their pointed ends facing up and their flatter basal ends facing down.
- Cover and Mulch: Gently cover the bulbs with soil, patting it down to eliminate air pockets. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate the soil and help regulate temperature fluctuations.
- Watering: Water the area thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment.
Chart Source: www.almanac.com/planting-fall-bulbs-spring-flowers
There are many types and species of fall bulbs. There are different colours, heights and flowering times. So the first question to ask yourself is, what colour do you prefer? When do you want the flowers to be blooming? Where do you want the flowers to go – are they at the front of a garden or behind other plants? Is there a particular flower shape that appeals to you? All of these considerations will help you create the look you want using fall bulbs.
Bulbs to Consider for Your Fall Garden:
When venturing into the realm of fall bulbs, one is greeted by a captivating array of types and species, each with its own unique charm. From the regal Tulips to the cheerful Daffodils/Narcissus, the delicate Crocus that ushers in the spring, the striking Allium, and the fragrant Hyacinths, the world of fall bulbs is a tapestry woven with botanical marvels. And that’s just the beginning, as there are also lesser-known yet equally enchanting varieties like the ethereal Scilla (bluebells), the dainty Leucojum (summer snowflake), the captivating Eremurus (foxtail lily), the graceful Anemone, the charming Muscari (grape hyacinth), and the exquisite Fritillari, among others.
Each of these floral wonders boasts its own palette of colours, a unique timing of blooms, and a distinct stature in terms of height. Thus, before embarking on your planting journey, the wisdom of planning your design becomes an invaluable tool. With a thoughtfully crafted blueprint, you can ensure that the symphony of colours, the choreography of bloom times, and the harmonious play of heights unite to create a garden that’s not only visually breathtaking but also a testament to the wonders of nature’s artistry.
Tulips
Within the Tulipa genus, there are many varieties, colours (ranging from white to pink, yellow and even blue), heights and even flowering times. The most common tulips for mass plantings normally are Triumph, Darwin Hybrid, Single Early and Landscape types. The other types of Tulips (Doubles, Botanical, Kaufmanniana, Parrot, etc.) are usually novelty or special interest types.
Tulips: Flowering Times and Heights
| Mid-Spring Flowering(April – May) | Height cm (“) | Late-Spring Flowering(May) | Height cm (“) |
| Landscape | 50-70 (20″- 28″) | Lily Flowering | 40-60 (16″-22″) |
| Single Early | 30-50 (12″-20″) | Single Late | 50-70 (20″-28″) |
| Double Early | 25-30 (10″-12″) | Giant Single Late | 70-75 (28″-30″) |
| Triumph | 20-60 (8″-22″) | Double Peony | 45-60 (16″-24″) |
| Botanical | 10-25 (4″-10″) | Parrot | 35-70 (14″-28″) |
| Kaufmanniana | 20-25 (8″-10″) | Darwin Hybrid | 45-70 (18″-28″) |
| Greigii | 20-50 (8″-20″) | Fringed | 45-70 (18″-28″) |
| Multiflowering | 35-50 (12″-20″) | ||
| Fosteriana | 35-45 (14″-18″) |
Daffodils and Narcissus
Daffodils and narcissus are a bright, cheerful welcome of warmer weather. They come in hues of yellow, white and even pink. These types usually flower at about the same time, typically in mid-spring (April-May). The difference between the types is height and colour combinations.
Daffodil/Narcissus: Heights
| Type of Daffodil/Narcissus | Height cm (“) |
| Trumpet | 35-50 (14″-20″) |
| Double | 35-40 (14″-16″) |
| Cupped | 35-45 (14″-18″) |
| Split Corona | 35-50 (14″-20″) |
| Poetaz | 35-40 (14″-16″) |
| Rock Garden | 20-40 (8″-16″) |
| Dwarf | 15-25 (6″-10″) |
| Miniature | 10-25 (4″-10″) |
| Novelty | 40-45 (16″-18″) |
Spring Flowering Crocus
Spring flowering crocus is always one of the first signs of spring as they mostly flower in early spring, sometimes even through the snow. Spring flowering crocus/snow crocus come in colours from white to purple, yellow and mixtures of those. They are fairly small in size, not normally reaching more than 4″ tall. They are also great for naturalizing, which means spreading or multiplying on their own. They are quite stunning when they are planted in a lawn area.
Alliums
Most Allium flower later on, in the summer months, making it a great way to extend the season of colour. They vary in size from 10-120 centimetres tall (4″-48″) and can have very large flowering heads. They range in colour from white to purple, even blue. Alliums are great at the back of the garden for the taller types, planting in containers and being used for cut flowers.
Hyacinth
Hyacinths flower in the mid-spring, which is April-May. They are normally about the same height, around 25 centimetres tall (10″). Hyacinths also come in a variety of colours ranging from white, purple and pink and even apricot hues. Hyacinths are also very fragrant, making them a great cut flower and are very effective for forcing indoors.
How To Keep the Squirrels & Pests From Feasting on Your Bulbs
As you embark on your journey to cultivating a mesmerizing garden adorned with fall bulbs, it’s essential to anticipate the presence of squirrels and other garden pests that may see your bulbs as a tempting feast. To ensure your botanical treasures remain undisturbed, consider these effective strategies to fortify your garden against these determined intruders:
Choose Unappetizing Bulbs:
Opt for bulbs that are less appealing to squirrels and pests. Daffodils (Narcissus) and Alliums are known for their unpalatable taste, deterring many critters from feasting on them. While no bulb is entirely immune, starting with these less attractive options can help.
Use Physical Barriers:
Employ protective barriers to shield your bulbs. Placing wire mesh, hardware cloth, or chicken wire over the planting area can create a barrier that prevents squirrels and pests from accessing your bulbs while still allowing them to grow through.
Utilize Repellents:
Scent-based repellents can deter pests from approaching your bulbs. Sprinkling crushed red pepper, garlic powder, or commercial animal repellents, like Blood Meal or Bone Meal, around the planting area can create a smell that squirrels and other animals find unpleasant.
Plant in Layers:
Plant your bulbs in layers by adding a layer of bulbs and then covering them with soil before adding the next layer. This makes it more challenging for pests to detect and reach the bulbs, reducing the chances of them being disturbed.
Try Companion Planting:
Introduce companion plants that naturally repel pests. For instance, planting daffodils alongside garlic or onions can discourage squirrels and other animals from digging near the bulbs.
Mulch Strategically:
Apply a layer of mulch over the planting area to deter squirrels from digging. Opt for materials like gravel, crushed shells, or coarse bark that can be uncomfortable for them to dig through.
Regular Maintenance:
Keep your garden tidy and remove fallen leaves and debris regularly. Squirrels often dig in loose soil looking for food, so maintaining a clean garden can discourage their presence.
Observation and Adaptation:
Regularly monitor your garden to identify signs of pest activity. If you notice digging or disturbances, adjust your protective measures accordingly.
By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of squirrels and pests wreaking havoc on your fall bulbs. With determination and a bit of ingenuity, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a garden that flourishes with the beauty and grace of your carefully planted fall bulbs.
