Planting Spring-Flowering Bulbs

Where to Plant Spring Bulbs?

Most spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths, prefer a position in full sun. A good amount of direct sunlight stimulates their flowering and promotes healthy growth. However, some more tolerant varieties, like daffodils and fritillaries, also thrive in partial shade, especially if they receive at least some afternoon sun. Observe the sunlight in your garden at different times of the day to choose the ideal spot. A location that benefits from at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day is recommended for these bulbs.

There are, however, exceptions. Some species, often woodland bulbs, prefer shadier areas. These varieties include Camassias, Erythroniums, squills (Scilla nutans and Scilla siberica), Eranthis hyemalis, and Wood Anemones. They adapt well to shaded or semi-shaded areas of your garden, such as the base of trees or sheltered spots near hedges.

Flowering bulbs particularly dislike excess moisture, especially during winter, as this can lead to rot. This is why it is crucial that the soil is well-drained. Bulbs thrive in loose, aerated soil where water drains easily. They also do well on slightly sloping ground or even in pots, as this helps prevent waterlogging.

If your soil is heavy (clay-based) or very humus-rich (like woodland soil), it may tend to retain moisture. In this case, it is advisable to mix sand or fine gravel into the garden soil to improve drainage and lighten the soil. This helps the bulbs’ roots to breathe and reduces the risk of rot.

When to plant them?

Spring-flowering bulbs are planted in autumn, between September and November, before the first frosts. This period allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures. Plant them approximately 4 to 6 weeks before the frost to give them time to develop their roots. In regions with mild winters, you can extend planting until December, as long as the soil is not frozen. Timely planting ensures a beautiful spring bloom!

How to Plant Them?

• Dig a hole with a depth equivalent to about 3 to 5 times the height of the bulb. Large bulbs (like tulips) should be planted deeper, while smaller ones (like crocuses) can be placed closer to the surface.
• Fill the bottom of the hole with a mix of garden soil and compost, optionally adding coarse sand for drainage, then lightly firm it down.
• Place the bulbs in the hole, pointy end up and roots facing down. Make sure to space them at least half their width apart to avoid crowding as they grow.
• Once the bulbs are positioned, cover them with soil until they are buried under twice their height of soil. Lightly firm the soil.
• If your soil is dry, water (moderately) to help the bulbs establish roots.

Planting tulip bulbs

Mass Planting Techniques

• For a spectacular effect, plant your bulbs in mass, with about 80 to 150 bulbs per square metre depending on the varieties. A practical method is to dig out the entire planting area, arrange the bulbs, then backfill the soil over them.
• If you want to plant bulbs in a lawn, use the same method: cut out sections of turf, place your bulbs, then replace the turf over them. They will grow through the lawn in spring.
• For a more natural look, mix different varieties of bulbs in a basket before planting. This will create a varied and spontaneous display of blooms.

Remember to mark your planting areas to avoid damaging them during winter gardening tasks.

Planting in a lawn

How to Care for Bulbs After Flowering?

Once flowering is over, you can cut back the faded flower stems to prevent the plant from expending too much energy on seed production. This allows the bulb to focus its resources on replenishing its reserves.

However, it is essential to leave the foliage in place until it turns yellow and dries out completely. The leaves continue to produce energy through photosynthesis, which nourishes the bulb for its future flowering. Only cut them back when they are entirely dried out, often several weeks after flowering has ended.

You can also apply a flower bulb fertiliser just after flowering. A nutrient boost at this time will help the bulb strengthen its reserves for the following spring. Choose a fertiliser rich in potassium and phosphorus.

Finally, in particularly rainy areas or if your bulbs are planted in pots, be careful not to overwater after flowering to avoid rotting. Let the bulbs rest and enter dormancy until the next growing season.