Spring flowering bulbs such as tulip, daffodil, grape hyacinth, and Siberian squill add beauty to any landscape. They require minimal maintenance once planted and they should reward you every spring with a beautiful show of color. In Minnesota, the best time to plant is from mid-September through mid-October. Tulips can be planted until the soil begins to freeze.
When choosing bulbs, make sure they are hardy for our area. Bulbs listed as hardy in zone 3 or 4 should survive. Bulbs are graded and priced accordingly based on bulb circumference. Always select the largest circumference bulbs to ensure stronger and larger flowers. Pick bulbs that are firm with crisp papery skins. A little mold on the skin of the bulb is not a concern if the bulb itself is free of mold. Check the root plate for any chips or scars which could result in poor root growth.
Bulbs should be planted in a location that receives six to eight hours of full sunlight per day and is free of standing water. Heavily shaded locations, low areas, or locations near downspouts should be avoided. In a shaded yard, it may seem difficult to find an area that will receive enough sunlight. Remember that most spring bulbs bloom before trees leaf out and as long as the foliage receives six weeks of good sunlight they should bloom the following year.
Before planting, call to have buried utilities located. Follow the guidelines that came with the bulbs for proper planting depth and spacing. If guidelines are not available, a good rule of thumb is to plant the bulb two to three times deeper than their diameter.
After planting, water bulbs thoroughly. Mulch the surface with two to three inches of leaf material, hay, or straw. Mulch will help keep the soil temperature more constant during late fall and early spring.
Rake back the mulch in spring as the shoots begin to emerge, but keep a little handy in case of hard frosts that may damage early emerging shoots. Proper post bloom care is necessary to allow plants to store food in the bulb to ensure good flowering next season. Deadhead plants after blooming by cutting the flower stalks as close to the leaves as possible. Do not cut leaves back until they are completely yellow or have started to dry. As long as the leaves are green, they continue to feed the bulb.
If you have questions about bulbs please call me at the University of Minnesota Extension office, Clay County at 218-299-7338, 1-800-299-5020 or by email nels1657@umn.edu. Check out our website at https://local.extension.umn.edu/local/clay
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