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Spring flowering bulbs need to be planted in the fall if you intend for them to bloom come spring. A few simple tips can help to guarantee the success of gorgeous blooms come spring.

Larger Bulbs Make Larger Blooms

Many of you already know that the larger the bulb is, the larger your flower will be. Flower bulbs are sold according to the caliber, or in other words the circumference of the bulb measured at its thickest part. Tulips, for example, can range anywhere from 10 centimeters to 12 centimeters, with the exception of some smaller species and botanical bulbs which may be only 8 centimeters around.

The size of the bulb has nothing to do with the health of the bulb, only the size of the flower. Smaller bulbs are less expensive and are perfect for places far away or for large groupings. If you intend to make a big show, then buy the larger bulbs.

Buy Firm, Healthy Bulbs

When you purchase bulbs, make sure they are firm, not mushy and that no mold or fungus are on them. If you purchase through a mail order catalog, inspect the bulbs closely upon arrival.

Torn tunics, the onion like papery substance on bulbs, is nothing to be concerned with. This may even help a bulb to root more quickly.

Buy Now, Plant Later

Making sure you plant at an optimum time is the key to success with your bulbs. Ideally, plant these bulb six weeks before you get a hard, ground-freezing frost in your area. This gives them time to root and establish themselves. Planting bulbs too early can lead to rot, fungus or disease.

A good rule of thumb is to wait until night time temperatures are in the 40 to 50 degree F range.

Sometimes it is necessary to shop early to get the bulbs you want. Most mail order sources will ship at the appropriate planting time but with retail stores, it’s another story. If you buy your bulbs early, store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

If you miss the optimal planting time, don’t wait for spring or next fall. Bulbs do not store as well as seeds and they will not survive out of the ground indefinitely. Even if it’s January or February, plant them and take your chances. You can always force them indoors or plant them in pots and refrigerate them until spring.

Flower bulbs are pretty tough and every year you hear stories of ones that survive under the most improbable circumstances.

Information obtained from the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center.