Planting a bulb is one of the simplest procedures in gardening. Most planted this fall will respond and bloom next spring even if you plant them upside down (but please avoid that if you can).
Our drawings show the correct positions.
Several Factors How To Plant Bulb Hinges
In heavy clay soil, you would not plant bulbs as deep as in light sandy loam. If you live in a northern state where winters are long and hard, you might set bulbs a little deeper than if your yard is in an area of mild winters.
If you should purchase extremely large bulbs for the type—larger than average—set them a little deeper than average.
For these reasons, it should be pointed out that a planting depth chart like this one speaks only in approximations.
The important thing is to use fresh, disease-free bulbs; and put them in well-prepared soil that drains well.
Something More About Tulips
Something more might be said about tulips. These perform well the first year, almost regardless of planting depth.
In places with hot summers, it is usually recommended that bulbs be set deep, up to ten or 12″ inches.
This prevents bulbs from dividing so freely, thereby diminishing bloom size and quality. Needless to say, however, where many are involved, the labor of setting bulbs 10″ to 12″ inches deep becomes enormous.
If ever you want to dig and move them, you have increased the work for yourself. Even at best, tulips are less permanent than many other bulbs, narcissus, for example.
So everything considered, we suggest a compromise tulip planting depth that gives satisfactory results for at least the first several years.
With Most Spring-Blooming Bulbs
The earlier you plant in the fall, the better. Hyacinths, madonna lilies, crocus, and narcissus are kinds that especially benefit from early planting.
Tulips are one of the few kinds that may be planted quite late without particular harm.
With eranthis, lilies, and the temperamental crown imperial, it is essential to get freshly dug bulbs or tubers and put them in the ground as soon as possible.
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