Plant Bulbs Now for Spring Color

by Niki Keniff

Agriculture & Horticulture Program Assistant

Fall is almost here and that means it is the time to plant spring bulbs. Bulbs need to be planted early enough in fall to allow them to begin growing and become established before the ground freezes. In northeast Kansas, planting bulbs in October is ideal. When purchasing bulbs, make sure to pick bulbs that are firm, free of rot or mold, and are a good size. It is important to plant the bulbs soon after purchase. If planting must be delayed, store them in a dry, dark place until planting is possible.

There are multiple factors that should be considered when selecting the site to plant spring bulbs. It is important that the soil is fertile and well-drained and the area must receive adequate sunshine for the bulbs to thrive. Planting bulbs at the correct depth and giving ample space is necessary to ensure healthy bulbs and blooms for years to come. Lastly, mulching the area before the ground freezes can ensure that the soil temperature and moisture stay consistent throughout the winter months.

A soil test is an easy and accurate way to learn more about the soil type and quality and if amending is needed. The Douglas County K-State Research and Extension Office can mail soil samples to the Soil Lab at K-State University in Manhattan for testing. Typically, results from the soil test are available within 2-3 weeks. Currently, the Douglas County Conservation District is covering the cost for up to 2 samples for urban/home lawns and up to 5 tests for rural/pasture/producer areas each year or as long as funds are available. For more details and instructions for soil sample collection, go to https://www.douglas.k-state.edu/news-events/soil-test/.

Spring bulbs need to be planted in full sun to partial shade. They can be planted near deciduous trees and shrubs as the bulbs will emerge and bloom early before the deciduous trees and shrubs leaf out in the spring. Once the bulbs blooms fade, it is important to let the leaves remain to complete the cycle. The bulb uses the leaves to photosynthesize and create energy to store in the bulb to enable blooms year after year. If the residual leaves are unsightly, consider planting perennials or annuals near that can grow and hide the leaves as they go through the process of dying back naturally. This typically only takes a few weeks and the leaves can be removed once they brown.

It is the general rule that bulbs should be planted at a depth that equals the diameter of the bulb multiplied by 2 or 3. This means that for a 2-inch diameter bulb, plant the bulb 4-6 inches deep. When working with heavy clay soils, it is best to plant on the shallow end of this guideline. For larger bulbs, such as daffodils or tulips, give a few inches between bulbs. If planting smaller bulbs, such as crocus, less space between bulbs is needed. Adding a layer of mulch after planting can help to ensure the bulbs have the ideal environment over the cold winter months.

Planting spring bulbs is an easy and fun way to add color to your spring garden, enjoy!