Best Flower Gardening

There are many varieties of bulbs available in the market today but not all are shipped within the same timeframe. For example, spring flowering bulbs are shipped in the fall because they need a cold period during the winter to begin their growth cycle. Summer flowering bulbs are shipped in the spring. The fall is upon us, the time to plant your spring blooming bulbs is now. Listed below are some the most common flowering bulbs that are shipped during the fall season.

Tulips

Tulips are very easy to grow. Perennial tulips are preferred over hybrids because these come back faithfully year after year. To ensure the highest level of performance from perennial tulips, plant the bulbs in well drained soil. This will help prevent disease and fungus directly on the bulbs. Be sure the bulbs are planted deep. If you measure from the base of the bulb, plant them about 6 inches deep. It is recommended that you water them after planting. This will ensure that the bulbs develop strong root system before going into their winter dormancy.

Daffodils

An old time favorite, daffodils bloom forever. It has been said that daffodils can bloom for up to 30 or even 50 years. That is awesome! To grow gorgeous daffodils, plant them in an area where the grass can be left un-mown until the foliage has matured. This area should be sunny and with good drainage. For a dramatic look, plant drifts of the same kind and the same color. You can do this by taking a handful of bulbs and throwing them about for a natural feeling distribution and just dig where the bulbs land.

Hyacinths

History tells us that Dutch bulb growers have cultivated hyacinths since the 17th century and more than 2,000 varieties were available by 1838. The unique upright shape of the flower spike and gorgeous colors made hyacinths a favorite for Victorian gardens. These are a member of the lily family and the only connection might be that hyacinths are tubular and very fragrant. For a dramatic look in your spring garden, plant an entire bed of the same hyacinth variety and color. Hyacinths return year after year adding beauty to a garden.

Lilies

Lilies are very easy to grow and those that ship in the fall are in the perennial family which means that they come back every year and require very little care. Lilies have beautiful robust flowers and you can get them in a wide array of colors, different shapes and sizes. If I was to describe lilies, I would say that the flowers are clump-forming with fibrous or tuberous roots. Lilies are also excellent as cut flowers and a favorite of most florists.

Crocus

Crocus usually blooms very early in the spring. It is amazing to see these beauties pop up in February from a mound of snow. Their timing is perfect and bloom well before any grass starts to grow. By the time the grass is ready to be mowed, the crocus are finished for the season. For an impressive look, plant them in masses. Choose a sunny area in the garden or even a lawn and plant large drifts using groupings of 30 bulbs spaced about 4 inches apart. According to many gardeners, crocus will thrive and bloom for 20 years or more and require very little care.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis is a beautiful flower that resembles a lily and usually thrives in the South but can be planted indoors in containers in colder regions. They come in many varieties and colors. Amaryllis flowers are very popular and favored by lots of gardeners because it blooms indoor in the winter months. Also, Amaryllis can be forced to bloom in about six weeks after planting. Yes, you can plant Amaryllis bulbs in a container indoors and force them to bloom in late winter by inducing a dormant period. Since Amaryllis stalks are quite heavy when it blooms, make sure the container you use is large enough so it will not tip over. Once the plant is established indoors, you can move them outdoors or even plant them in your garden when the danger of frost is past.

There are many bulbs that need to be planted now for spring flowering and the ones listed above are just some of the most popular. If you haven’t purchased bulbs yet, get to the local garden center and get them as soon as possible. Better yet, order them online from a reputable company like Breck’s for the best quality.

To get great tips and ideas on fall bulb planting check out an article from our friends over at The Gardeners Rake site.

Here are some other flower gardening sites that I found for you to browse. Thanks for visiting Best Flower Gardening!

May is Garden for Wildlife Month
BBC - Chelsea Flower Show 2011 - List of show gardens with awards
14 winter-prep tips for your lawn and garden - MSN Real Estate
Botanical Gardens Are Turning Away From Flowers - NYTimes.com
Gardening: Hydrangeas Madonna could love - The Washington Post
AOL.com Search Video - Maintaining A Flower Bed


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