Landscaping & Gardening Information

Fall Garden Chores for Spring Flowering Bulbs


As the school busses begin to rumble down the road again we are reminded that the gardening season is drawing to a close. For the gardener with an eye toward next spring, however, the season still promises plenty to be done in preparation of a showy spring to come. Early fall is the time when we should be planting our bulbs.

Good soil drainage is paramount for spring-blooming bulb success. If you have a mostly clay soil be sure to mix in organic material such as compost to lighten the soil. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7. If you need assistance in determining your soil pH or in discovering how to manage its level refer to your local agricultural extension service for help.

Spring flowering bulbs are great for beds, in borders, and in rock gardens. These early risers prefer to be planted in areas which will not receive direct sunlight during the midday, especially once the hot summer months roll back around.

Wait until soil temperatures are below 60 F (16 C) before planting. If you purchase your bulbs before the cold season sets in you may keep them in your refrigerator until the soil has cooled sufficiently. The fall planting ensures the bulbs will have adequate opportunity to develop a strong root system before they come up in the spring and early summer to greet you.

When you are ready to plant your bulbs, follow the directions carefully for the depth and spacing requirements and be certain to loosen the soil beneath the depth of planting. The easiest fertilization method for your spring bulbs is a single application of a sulfur-coated, slow-release fertilizer incorporated into the bottom of your bulb hole at planting time. After having placed the bulbs in their new home, begin to cover them with the soil you removed to dig the hole. When you have covered the bulbs halfway give them a thorough soaking before covering them with the remaining soil.

With such wonderful options as corn lily, grape hyacinth and tulips your work will be rewarded in the spring with the finest of gardening pleasures. The joy can possibly only be compared to the sound of the school busses rumbling down the road.

Ed Rooney is the creator of http://www.garden-helper.com - an online gardening resource for gardeners to learn, share, plan and shop.


MORE RESOURCES:

Courier Reports Fourth-Quarter and Year-end Results
MarketWatch - Nov 6, 2008
... books and study guides; and Creative Homeowner, a publisher and distributor of books on home design, decorating, landscaping, gardening and crafts. ...


National City Bank lobbies closing Thursday for volunteer effort
TCPalm, FL - Nov 12, 2008
Employees will emerge from their desks and cubicles and spend the afternoon engaging in activities such as landscaping, gardening and painting. ...


Calendar for Nov. 20
Milpitas Post, CA - Nov 19, 2008
... event planning, facilities planning, fundraising, grant writing, graphic design, and landscaping/gardening. The Wildlife Center, located in San Jose, ...


National City employees reach out in Paint Your Heart Out program
Palm Beach Daily News, FL - Nov 13, 2008
... County Thursday while employees took part in charitable tasks at various locations from 1 to 5 pm Tasks included landscaping, gardening and painting. ...


Roses & Raspberries
Battle Creek Enquirer, MI - Nov 15, 2008
Janet is closing her business after 13 years serving the Battle Creek landscaping, gardening and birding communities. We will miss you! ...


Thursday is Community Appreciation Day at Treasure Coast National ...
Stuart News (subscription), FL - Nov 10, 2008
National City employees will be engaged in a variety of tasks, including projects such as landscaping, gardening, painting, helping children with homework ...

Landscaping-Gardening - Google News

home | site map
© 2006