Posted by Stephanie | Posted in Bulbs | Posted on 16-07-2007
Fall is a great time for planing trees, wildflower seeds, and especially flower bulbs. Bulbs planted in the fall have more time to get adjusted which allows them to bloom earlier and stronger than bulbs planted in the spring. Just a remember a few super easy tips that will ensure success when planting in the fall.
Soil quality is very important, because soil that stays too wet will cause most bulbs to rot very quickly. Well-drained soil is best—amend dense clay soils with rich organic materials like peat, sphagnum, or compost. A near neutral to very slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is best for most bulbs.
Plant after the first frost, but don’t wait too late. You want to allow your bulbs to start establishing a good root system before hard winter. Mail-order bulbs usually must be planted immediately. You may have to store nursery bulbs for a while, until planting time, because we all like to buy early to make sure we get the best bulbs.
Depth is crucial when planting bulbs, and always plant pointy end up. Plant them 3-4 times as deep as the height of the bulb—for larger bulbs, no more than about 8 inches up to about 3 inches for smaller bulbs. Add a complete slow-release fertilizer before replacing soil and, if conditions are dry, add plenty of water.
Can I start perinneal seeds in the early Fall inside?
Our neighbors just cut down their Poplar trees and we have shoots coming up everywhere in our yard. I keep pulling them up and trying to get as much of the root as possible, but they are everywhere. Is there anything I can do to get rid of them other than what I’m already doing?