Think Spring
Fall is the time when you need to think about spring flowers in your garden; a perfect time for planting tulips, crocuses, narcissuses, hyacinth, and other spring flowers. The bulbs of these flowers need time to root before winter arrives. Planting bulbs in masses will provide spectacular color in the early spring.
Bulb planting depths vary depending on the variety of flower, which is why it is important that you follow the package directions carefully. Bulbs planted too deep will not surface and bulbs planted too shallow may surface too early [if the weather is mild during the winter months]. Heavy clay soils may need to be amended in order for your bulbs to grow successfully. Always plant a bulb “pointed” side up. The rounded (or flat) side is where roots are produced.
Newly purchased bulbs contain all the fertilizer flowering bulbs need. But if you feel a need to fertilize, bone meal can be used to amend poor soil conditions.
Squirrels love to dig up tulips and hyacinths. Deers and rabbits eat flower buds as they emerge in the spring. Garden centers carry products you can apply to the bed areas before they feed on your plants. In order to stop squirrels, you can dig out the areas to the recommended planting depth, not individual holes. Place the bulbs in the ground and cover the area with chicken wire. Finally, put the rest of the soil back in and cover the wire with at least one inch of soil.
Each year nurseries strive to create new varieties of perennials. Be careful if you plan on purchasing new varieties. It may be a couple of years before the creators are able to perfect their newly grafted varieties. Only order bulbs and perennials from reputable companies; many times customers are disappointed with the size and health of catalogue purchases.
When purchasing your bulbs, make sure they are firm. Soft bulbs, or bulbs that are bruised and moldy will not germinate. Thoroughly water your newly planted bulbs to encourage root development. Winter is a great time to plan next year’s garden, and before you know it, your bulbs will emerge with beautiful color in the spring.
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William Quinn and Sons, Inc.
3860 W. 127th St.
Alsip, IL 60803
Phone: 708-389-8119
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