On our Facebook page, one of the most popular questions we get is regarding the ideal planting time for bulbous flowers. And, rightly so, because they can be a pain in the bum to time correctly.
In this article, not only will I take you through the ideal planting time for common bulbs, but also share with you some very important tips and tricks that should help you achieve better, healthier blooms.
Let’s take a look at it, shall we?
Wait Before You Plant Your Bulbs…Timing Is Everything!
Like most of you might already know, when it comes to bulbs, timing is everything!
While there aren’t any “exact dates” or specific time periods for planting bulbs, the so-called “optimal” planting window for bulbs is relatively shorter compared to other plants, so agility and quick action are necessary.
In colder climates (Zones 3 to 5), fall planting should be done earlier, often by mid-September, since the ground freezes sooner and the bulbs need time to root before winter!
When To Plant Spring-Flowering Bulbs:
Tulips:
Tulips are best grown in zones 3-8. Plant them in fall, between September and November, ideally 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes.
Daffodils:
Plant daffodils in zones 3-9 in the fall season. Between September and October works best. In warmer zones, you can plant them slightly earlier though.
For even more inspiration, check out these bulbs you should plant this fall for spring blooms.
Hyacinths:
Another common bulbous flower that thrives in zones 3-9 and should be planted between September and November. Hyacinths need some exposure to the cold before they start blooming.
Crocus:
Plant crocuses in fall in zones 3-8. September through November is the best planting window, making sure bulbs go into the soil at least 6 weeks before the first hard frost.
Do not plant them very deep since they tend to do better with shallow planting.
Alliums:
Alliums grow best in zones 4-9. They have a shorter planting window, often between September and October, and mostly bloom late in spring.
Want the most bang for your buck? Here’s a list of the longest-flowering bulbs you can grow in spring.
When To Plant Summer-Flowering Bulbs:
Lilies:
Plant lilies in zones 3-9, ideally in spring between the months of April and May. Fortunately, they can even be planted in fall if temperature conditions are on the milder side.
Unlike tender bulbs like dahlias or gladiolus, true lily bulbs are hardy and can usually overwinter in the soil in most regions
Dahlias:
Dahlias thrive in zones 8-11 as perennials. In cooler zones like 3-7, they’re grown as annuals. You can plant them in spring once the risk of frost has passed.
To save tubers from year to year in colder zones, dig them up after the first frost, cure them, and store them indoors over winter. Here’s a full guide on how to overwinter dahlias: dig, store, and replant them!
Gladiolus:
Gladiolus are best suited for warmer zones like 7-10. You’re free to plant them anytime in spring once the risk of frost subsides. In colder zones, you can grow them as annuals or dug up!
In colder zones like 3 to 6, gladiolus corms won’t survive winter outdoors, so you’ll need to dig and store them after the first frost if you want to replant next year.
And if you’re already moving plants around, don’t miss these perennials you can safely divide in early fall.
Canna:
In warmer zones like 8-11, cannas grow as perennials, meaning they’ll return every year as long as the conditions remain favorable. Plant them in late spring after the last frost.
Caladiums:
This bulbous perennial thrives in zones 9-11, though it may be grown as an annual in cooler zones. Plant caladiums while the soil is still warm in late spring.
When To Plant Fall-Flowering Bulbs:
Colchicum:
Colchicum, also known as autumn crocus, is best grown in zones 4-8. Ideally, one should plant this bulb in late summer between August and September to achieve blooms in fall.
Fall-Blooming Crocus:
Fall-blooming crocus varieties like ‘Crocus sativus’ or ‘saffron crocus’ grow best in zones 6-9. Between August and September is the ideal time to plant them.
September is also the perfect month for more than bulbs, here are flowers you can plant in September for a beautiful spring display.
Which Bulbs Should You Plant In Fall For Spring Blooms?
While there are tons of bulbs you can plant in the fall season to achieve spring blooms, you can’t really ever go wrong with the classics. These include tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, alliums, and crocuses.
They produce beautiful but still familiar flowers that just uplift the whole vibe of the garden or indoor space they’re planted in.
If you’re unsure when your region’s planting window really begins, here’s a handy guide on flowers to sow in fall for spring blooms by zone.
Are There Bulbs That Bloom In Fall?
Although fall-blooming bulbs are somewhat uncommon, colchicums and fall-blooming crocuses are two of the best planting options you have that can get you full and vibrant blooms in the fall season.
Let’s Conclude
When it comes to planting bulbs, timing is legitimately everything!
Now, that doesn’t mean you won’t have to care for the bulbs or look after them, but planting at the right time is a very important part of the process that will determine if your bulbs grow well and are able to bloom eventually.
If you’re still confused about planting bulbs in your garden, this is your sign to give them a shot and see if they are a good choice for you. There is a cost to inaction, so at least be willing to give them a try before you dismiss them.
And don’t forget that not everything needs to be started from bulbs, you can also direct sow flowers in spring for incredible summer color
