- A fertilizing program helps bulbs stay healthy. Add compost or manure to enrich the soil and organic supplements to nourish your bulbs.
- Planting bulbs where water puddles is a sure way to have a disappointing spring. Hollows, low spots, under drain spouts and other soggy locations will cause bulbs to rot.
- Note the flowering times. Not all tulips, for instance, will bloom at the same time. A little planning will greatly increase the number of months you will enjoy bulb flowers
- Flower bulbs make the most striking display if you plant them in large groups. A large clump of one color or a mix attracts more attention than if you plant just a few here and there.
- Plant low-growing bulb varieties up front and taller ones at the back of your beds
- Freezing temperatures can crack terra cotta pots and ornamental planters. By first planting bulbs in plastic pots then placing the plastic pot inside the earthen one, you’ll create a natural insulation between the two.
- Lay out your bulbs on top of the soil where you want to plant them. After, poke a twig into the soil to mark where you’ve already planted.
- Making your own plant markers can be a beautiful way to add a personal touch to your bulb garden. Or buy ones made of wood.
- Choose a variety of colors: Tulips come in a wide range of colors, so consider selecting a mix of shades and hues to create a dynamic and visually appealing display.
- Plan for succession: Tulips bloom for a relatively short period, so plan your planting to ensure that you have a succession of blooms throughout the spring. This can be achieved by planting early, mid, and late-blooming varieties, so that as one type of tulip fades, another type will take its place.
- Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix different varieties of tulips together, or to combine them with other spring flowers such as daffodils or hyacinths. This can create a more varied and interesting display.
- Consider the backdrop: Think about the colors and textures of the other plants in your garden, and how they will complement or contrast with your tulips. For example, if you have a lot of green foliage, bright yellow or pink tulips can stand out beautifully against it.
- Experiment with different planting methods: Tulips can be planted in traditional garden beds, but they can also be planted in containers, raised beds, or even in a naturalized setting like a meadow or woodland. Consider your space and experiment with different planting methods to see what works best for your garden.
