Spring Bulbs Tips & Tricks

Bulb storage until planting

• Bulbs cannot be planted outside until the soil is 50° or more.
• Store in a cool, dark, dry spot until a few days before planting 40° - 50°
• 2-3 days before planting bring them into room temperature to wake up for planting.

Begonias (not winter hardy)

• Start indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost.
• Put in a warm area around 70° with the concave side up. This is where the “eyes” will sprout.
• Plant with just an inch of soil over the top. Water well, put in a part sun location with either morning or afternoon sun.

Dahlias (not winter hardy)

• These do best when started outdoors. Soil temperature should be at least 60°
• Plant in full sun, out of the wind and DO NOT WATER. Put a support stake in when planting so not to damage tubers when plant is mature.
• Dahlias should not be watered until there is a sprout showing. Do not cover it with mulch. Dahlias like warm roots.

Freesia (not winter hardy)

• When the soil is at least 60° plant 2” deep, 3” apart, tip up in a sunny location.
• The stems need support as they grow. Keep moist but not soggy.
• These bloom 10-12 weeks after being planted. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer like 20-20-20

Gladiolus (not winter hardy)

• These bloom late summer. Some varieties can take 90 days or more to bloom. Great late summer color.
• Mulch around plants to keep soil moist.
• For cut flowers, plant in rows. For showy blooms plant in clusters of 7 or more.

Lilies – Zones 3-8 (these overwinter outside)

• Plant in full sun, at a depth 3 times the height of the bulb. 2” bulb plant 6” deep.
• Easy to grow and maintain. Toxic to cats, even the pollen.
• For best effect, plant in groups of 3-5