Want Flowers in the Spring in Minnesota? Plant bulbs now!

If you have delayed planting your spring bulbs, delay no more. The University of Minnesota Extension Service recommends planting of most spring bulbs in Minnesota by the end of October. Early November may not be too late though, especially for tulips which can be planted as long as the ground isn’t frozen too hard.

Here are some tips to remember:

• Bulbs should be firm with a papery skin. If soft or moldy, throw them away.

• Bulbs need to be able to grow roots once planted in the fall, and they need the cold winter to break their dormancy cycle in order to bloom in spring.

• Bulbs will need warmth and light in the spring to trigger their growth. Choose a site that will not be shaded in early spring.

• Bulbs can be planted under trees as long as they will receive enough light before and just after their blooming season. Full shade in summer is acceptable.

• Soil near southern and western exposure foundations could start to grow too soon, risking cold damage. It’s better to plant in an area that is sheltered from damaging winds but that will not warm up before other areas.

• Bulbs need rich, well-drained soil. Avoid areas that tend to fill with water during rain storms.

• New bulb beds should be cleared of rocks and matted roots, and some organic matter should be tilled in to a depth of 10-12 inches. Add some fertilizer in when tilling, but do not add it directly to the bulb holes.

• Plan to plant the bulbs in odd numbers or mass plantings. Put the bed where it will be enjoyed from a window or the road.

• The basic rule for planting depth is 2 ½ times deeper than the diameter of the bulb. Sandy soils should be a bit deeper, and heavy clay soil should be a bit shallower.

• Always plant the bulb with the pointed end facing up, cover with a portion of the soil and water well. Add the rest of the soil, smoothing the surface, water again and add 3-5 inches of mulch. Leaf material, grass clippings and straw work well. (You will remove much of this mulch in the spring.)

Then sit back and wait for spring!

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