Bulb Planting | Scotts Fafard

Want to add colour to your garden as soon as spring arrives? Planting bulbs is a great way to do it. Whether you’re planting them in crates right on your doorstep or in the flower beds at the base of trees, the idea is to use them wherever you want to spruce up your garden.

Now, it is important to know the differences between spring bulbs (which bloom in the spring) and summer bulbs (which bloom in the summer).

Spring bulbs

Hardy bulbs, also called perennial bulbs, are a welcome reminder that warmer weather and sunny days will soon return. Daffodils, irises, and tulips are good examples of spring bulbs. Of course, there are many varieties available on the market that offer different blooming periods, from April through June. Bulbs should be planted in the fall, usually in September and October. Remember, as long as they are in the ground before it freezes, they will thrive in the spring!

Summer bulbs

Summer bulbs are mostly planted between March and May. The best known are begonias, lilies, dahlias, gladioli, cannas and montbrétias. Once again, garden centers are full of species, each one more generous than the other. They will bloom between two and three months after planting.

How to plant spring bulbs in the ground

First, it is important to choose your bulbs carefully, making sure they are firm, heavy and of good quality. Also, take the time to think about the colors and varieties of flowers you want to use to enhance your landscape.

As mentioned earlier, hardy bulbs should be planted in the fall before the ground freezes. Another important thing to know is that you should plant them as soon as possible after purchasing them, as they are not intended to stay above ground for long. That being said, once you are ready to plant them, follow these simple steps:

Loosen the soil and add some Biosol compost. Mix Planter Starter Natural Fertilizer with bone meal into the soil under each bulb.
Make sure the soil is well drained so that the bulbs do not get moldy.
Dig 12 to 20 holes in a zig-zag pattern according to the depth indicated on the package.
Plant the bulbs in the holes with the pointed end up.
Cover bulbs with FLOWER+TREE+SHRUB 3/1 Planting mix and water.
Add a layer of mulch to add extra protection from the winter cold.

Spring flowering bulbs can also be planted in pots. Have you ever tried bulb lasagna? Find out how right here. Fall gardening ideas: Bulb lasagna!

Spring bulb conservation

If you enjoyed your landscape design and want to salvage your spring bulbs, you can! When your flowers have dried out, remove the bulbs from the ground, remove the foliage and soil, and store them in a dry place (without watering) to prevent them from rotting. They can then be replanted in the fall, to live again the following spring!

Storing summer bulbs over winter

Summer bulbs need much the same care during the cold season. In the fall, gently dig up your bulbs, remove the foliage and let them dry in the sun for a while. Finally, store them frost-free in a dry, airy place. As the months go by, inspect your treasure trove from time to time to remove any rotten bulbs. They could influence others to do the same…

Have a question? Visit a garden center near you and they will be glad to assist you. Happy gardening!

Language Switcher

When and how to plant bulbs

Spring bulbs

Summer bulbs

How to plant spring bulbs in the ground

Spring bulb conservation

Storing summer bulbs over winter