Best Planting Time by Growing Zone
Zone 2 (-50 to -40°F)
Early September
Zone 3 (-40 to -30°F)
Mid-September
Zone 4 (-30 to -20°F)
Late September to early October
Zone 5 (-20 to -10°F)
Late September to early October
Zone 6 (-10 to 0°F)
Mid-October
Zone 7 (0 to 10°F)
Early November
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If you’re in zone 3 and you’ve missed the optimal time frame for planting your spring bulbs, are you doomed for next season? Montgomery says probably not.
While these time frames outline the best time to plant spring bulbs, they can be viewed as a general guideline. In fact, she says her own husband (who is also a horticulturist) regularly plants his spring bulbs later than recommended (up until the end of December in their zone 7 garden), and always with outstanding results.
So don’t be afraid to play a little catch-up in October if you’re in a growing zone where you should have planted your spring bulbs in September. One of the great things about spring bulbs is how resilient and low-maintenance they are.
How to Plant Spring Bulbs Like a Pro
Credit:
Ian Laker Photography / Getty Images
Planting spring bulbs is a relatively straightforward process. However, Montgomery has a few tips to help you make the most out of your early spring garden, and it all comes down to planting the bulbs properly.
This includes preparing the soil, correct spacing, planting them at the right depth, watering, fertilizing, and mulching.
Prepare the Soil
According to Montgomery, amending your soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and boost available nutrients is always a good idea before planting.
Bulbs require well-draining soil to grow, so heavy clay soils need to be amended well. Standard garden soil is sufficient for tulip and daffodil bulbs, but some added drainage can never hurt.
Plant Depth and Spacing
As a general rule, plant bulbs three times as deep as they are tall, says Montgomery. For example, if a bulb is two inches tall, it should be planted six inches deep. This helps ensure the plants are secure in the ground and deters animals from digging up shallow bulbs.
“Always plant bulbs with the pointy end facing upwards,” Montgomery says. “If it doesn’t have a pointy side, plant it anyway. It will automatically grow upward.”
Bulb spacing is more objective. Some growers prefer to plant bulbs in straight lines (especially if you are growing flowers for harvest), while others prefer to plant bulbs in groups for a more natural look.
Regardless of how you decide to plant them, ensure that your tulip and daffodil bulbs are spaced about 3 inches to 6 inches apart, says Montgomery. Smaller bulbs like snowdrops and crocuses can be planted closer.
Water Well
After planting, water thoroughly to help the soil settle snugly around the bulbs. After that, Montgomery says that regular fall rainfall should be enough to sustain the bulbs as they acclimate and begin growing roots.
However, if you live in an especially dry area or are experiencing a prolonged drought, supplemental watering is a good idea. A deep watering every two weeks is all spring bulbs need in the fall.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is not required, but it can be beneficial to ensure the best blooms come spring. However, using the right fertilizer is essential. According to Montgomery, an organic bulb fertilizer is best.
“Regular fertilizers won’t cut it; bulbs have unique nutrient needs,” she says. “For the best results, apply an organic bulb fertilizer at planting time in the fall and again after flowering in the spring.”
Mulching
Lastly, applying a layer of mulch after planting can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, according to Montgomery. If you are planting bulbs in a lawn, there is no need to add mulch as the surrounding grass will protect the bulbs and retain moisture.
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