Spring Flower Bulbs Sprouting in Fall
Johner Images/Getty ImagesDon’t panic if your spring flowering bulbs start sprouting in fall.
“I planted some fall bulbs for spring, but my crocuses are already growing leaves! What should I do now, and how can I protect the bulbs through the winter and cold temperatures?” asks Birds & Blooms reader Sharal Whitecliff of Hoquiam, Washington.
Horticultural expert Melinda Myers says, “This is a common occurrence when we have unusually warm weather after planting our spring-flowering bulbs in fall. The bulbs usually survive, but the leaves may be damaged by cold winter temperatures.
You can cover the sprouted bulb leaves with evergreen boughs or straw after the ground freezes. Remove this covering in late winter or early spring when temperatures hover above freezing and new growth begins.”
Check out the different types of flower bulbs that gardeners should grow.
How to Keep Bulbs From Growing Too Soon
Melinda says, “Waiting to plant your bulbs until the soil temperatures reach 45 to 50 degrees—but before the ground freezes—helps reduce the risk of untimely sprouting. Use a soil thermometer or even a meat thermometer to measure the soil temperature.
You can further reduce the risk of fall planted bulbs sprouting too soon by planting them in the best possible location. Avoid planting them next to your home’s foundation, under dryer vents or any other areas subject to warmer than normal temperatures that can stimulate bulbs sprouting in fall or during a warm spell in winter.”
Next, find out the best time and place to plant lily bulbs.
About the Expert
Melinda Myers is the official gardening expert for Birds & Blooms. She is a TV/radio host, author and columnist who has written more than 20 gardening books. Melinda earned a master’s degree in horticulture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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