When to Plant Bulbs in North Carolina?

Spring-blooming Bulbs

• Plant spring-blooming bulbs in November and December in zones seven and eight. If you are in zone 6, you can plant them in October. The soil temperature at this time of year is ideal for allowing the bulbs to develop a strong root structure through the winter.

Summer and Fall Bulbs

• Bulbs that will blossom in the summer and fall will be planted in the late spring, generally in early May. Most summer-flowering bulbs do not overwinter, except for iris, lilies and daylilies.

Bulb Depth

• Bulbs are planted to a depth of five or eight inches, depending on the size of the bulb. If you are planting multiple bulbs in the same location, plant the larger bulb eight inches below the ground and then place the smaller bulb five inches deep.

Mulch

• Bulbs need to stay hydrated and avoid freezing once they are planted. Laying two inches of organic mulch on top of the flower bed after planting helps the ground stay moist and adds protection against cold and weeds.