How to Plant Bulbs for Year-Round Flowers

Planting Outdoors

• 1

  Select bulbs that will bloom during each of the four seasons. Bulbs that bloom in late winter include the snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) and winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis). Spring-blooming bulbs include familiar favorites like the crocus, daffodil, grape hyacinth and tulip. Lilies, cannas, iris, begonias and gladiolus brighten the summer months. Many species of autumn crocus bloom in the fall.

• 2

  Add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the top 12 inches of soil in the bed where you plan to plant your bulbs. Bulbs require a well-drained soil high in organic matter to thrive. Mix in bonemeal or superphosphate to provide extra phosphorus for the bulbs.

• 3

  Plant spring bulbs at a depth two or three times the height of the bulb. Other bulbs have varied planting requirements, so consult planting instructions that came with the bulbs. Plant bulbs with the root plate facing downward.

• 4

  Water after planting. When sprouting and blooming, bulbs require about 1 inch of water per week.

• 5

  Fertilize with 10-10-10 soluble fertilizer in the fall and when shoots first begin to grow for spring bulbs. Fertilize monthly from shoot emergence until blooming for summer- and fall-flowering bulbs.

• 6

  Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch to conserve water and prevent weed growth.

Planting Indoors

• 7

  Plant spring bulbs in October for winter flowering. Plant the bulb with the root plate pointed down and the tip of the bulb uncovered by soil. Keep the soil loose and plant several bulbs of the same variety in each pot.

• 8

  Water after planting and whenever the soil becomes dry to the touch.

• 9

  Cover the pots with a plastic bag with holes punched in it to allow for air circulation. Place the pots in a cold location with temperatures between 35 and 48 degrees for at least 12 weeks. Do not allow the bulbs to freeze.

• 10

  Bring the pots into a warm room three or four weeks before you want them to flower, beginning in late December. Keep them in a cool, sunny location and out of direct sunlight. Once shoots begin to appear, you can move them to a warmer location. Moving pots to a cool location overnight will prolong the life of the flowers.