New Your has the potential to deliver exceptionally fierce winters and few may be concerned with the crocuses and hyacinths they would love to see in their landscape come the spring. In order to bloom in spring, the spring-flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils need to be planted in the fall because these bulb plants require extensive periods of cool temperatures to induce the chemical process that enables them to flower come spring. To help you achieve your spring-flowered bulb plants to reach their full potential, we at Mickey’s LawnScapes, would like to further discuss planting these plants sooner rather than later.
Best Time to Plant Spring Bulbs in the Fall
If you want these beautiful flowers in the coming spring, you need to get the bulbs in the ground approximately 6 weeks before the ground freezes. To give the bulbs a better chance of developing deep, strong roots, the need the time leading up to the freeze. Not only is it prudent to get these spring-flower bulb in the ground in the fall, but it is essential to plant them in the most optimal location. Keep in mind that the sun and shade patterns differ from that in late September/early October than that of spring. Not only do you need to consider the sun and shade patterns, but the leaves on trees will only be budding in the spring meaning the bulbs will receive more sun through the bare branches than what they may be receiving currently.
How Do You Plant Spring Bulbs in Autumn?
To ensure your bulbs are hardy, plant them nose up; if you are concerned about the wildlife nibbling your bulbs, wrap them with a fine mesh cloth that are available at hardware stores before replacing the dirt. Below you will find the basic guide of how the common bulbs in New York should be planted.
1) Crocus: Plant 2-4 inches deep and 3-5 inches apart. Soil should drain well because these bulbs will rot in soggy soil. Crocus are better planted in groups or in rows because these plants will look lost otherwise. Areas with adequate sun shine are essential.
2) Hyacinth: Plant 4-6 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart. These plants need good drainage as well; otherwise the bulb could rot. Plant these bulbs with the pointy end facing up and where it will get plenty of sunshine.
3) Daffodil: These bulbs should planted 8 inches deep, and 6 inches apart. Better to plant daffodil bulbs in area where it is mostly sunny and partly shaded. Daffodils need soil that is well drained to avoid any rot.
4) Standard Tulip: The standard tulips are better planted 4-6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. These bulbs should have the pointy ends up and ensure the soil is well cultivated to offer better drainage.
5) Snowdrop: Snowdrops should be planted 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. These bulbs are better planted where there more sun than shade and in soil with optimal drainage is optimal for maximum results.
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If you are in need of any maintenance, planting or other fall treatments call Mickey’s LawnScapes and let our specialists help you!
