Bulb planting season is here

By Trisha Gedon

STILLWATER. – As the summer gardening season ends, brightly-colored flowers are fading, as if saying goodbye. While the vibrancy of a summer garden slips quietly away, gardeners can prepare for next spring’s vivid colors in the landscape by planting spring-flowering bulbs now through early November.

David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist, said planting bulbs in the fall gives them time to establish a root system before the winter cold sets in.

“Bulbs need a chilling period to bloom in the spring,” he said. “Planting the bulbs at this time of year will provide that and help ensure the bulbs will grow into a strong plant next spring. Be aware that planting bulbs too early will result in premature sprouting.”

Hillock suggests visiting the local garden store soon to have the best bulb selection. Gardeners may also opt to order from their favorite seed and bulb company. Online ordering often provides gardeners with a broader selection of bulb varieties. Quality bulbs make a significant difference, so look for firm, plump bulbs void of mold or soft spots.

As with all aspects of gardening, selecting the right place in the landscape is crucial. Choose a site that drains well because bulbs don’t like soggy conditions. Many Oklahoma gardeners can attest that the abundance of clay soil is common, which means less-than-desirable growing conditions. Planting on a slope can help with drainage issues. Also, select a site that has full sun exposure. It’s helpful if there is protection from heavy winds that can damage the flowers once they’ve emerged.

“Good, well-drained soil is a must for gardening success, and preparing the soil before planting is important,” Hillock said. “Bulbs sitting in water-logged soil will develop root rot. Mixing in organic matter, such as compost, will help with drainage issues in clay soil.”

In addition to clay soil, parts of the state also feature sandy soil, which isn’t suitable for gardening. Amending clay soil with compost will help it become more workable and improve drainage. Compost helps enhance water retention in sandy soil.

Gardeners who don’t have great soil in the landscape can opt for raised beds. Gardeners can fill the beds with the best soil, but raised beds are also easier for garden tasks like weeding and fertilizing.

“Be sure to read the directions on the bulb package and follow the planting guide,” he said. “Plant at the correct depth, smooth over the soil and tamp it down slightly. Bulbs are typically planted at a depth two to three times their diameter. A 2-inch bulb should be planted 4 to 6 inches deep. Also, remember that bulbs should be planted with the roots facing down. Irrigate until the soil is moist but not soupy. Finally, cover with a 2- to 3-inch blanket of mulch to protect the bulbs from Old Man Winter.”

When planting bulbs, don’t be shy. Planting generously provides a lot of visual interest in the landscape. Plant tulip bulbs in groups of 20 or more with about a foot between each bulb to create a big pop of color.

“Daffodils provide a fantastic display when organized in swaths, much like a lazy river,” Hillock said. “Also, mixing different species and varieties of species will provide a longer display of blooms in the landscape. Consider other spring flowering bulbs such as hyacinths, snowdrops, Siberian squill, Spanish bluebells, fritillaria, and crocus to add visual interest. There are early, mid- and late-season blooming varieties, so mix and match for the best effect.”

Don’t forget about protecting against pests and diseases. Gardeners put in a lot of work planting a garden, and it can be frustrating when pests and diseases wreak havoc. Be vigilant in scouting for pests and treat accordingly.

“The work gardeners put in this fall will pay big dividends in the spring when the landscape is full of beautiful, flowering bulbs,” he said.

Check out more OSU Extension gardening information.

OSU Extension uses research-based information to help all Oklahomans solve local issues and concerns, promote leadership and manage resources wisely throughout the state’s 77 counties. Most information is available at little to no cost.

Subscribe to our free newsletter at https://heaveneronline.substack.com