What Happens When a Flower Bulb Gets Trampled On?

Lack of Blooms

• The layers of the bulb are the food source for the embryonic plant and flower within. As a rule, the larger the bulb, the larger the flower it produces. That's why bigger bulbs of the same variety cost more than smaller bulbs. If the layers of the bulb are trampled on and destroyed, that means less food for the flower. The bulb may or may not flower depending on the damage.

Rot

• Crushing the bulb, but not completely destroying it, releases moisture from the layers. That moisture causes the other layers to start rotting. Mold may set in as well. Think of an onion bulb that's gotten crushed: It starts to go bad after a few days.

No Roots

• If the basal plate at the bottom of the bulb is trampled, there won't be any root development. Without roots, there isn't a way for the plant to get nutrients from the soil. The bulb should be thrown in the compost pile.