Plant Spring-Blooming Bulbs for a Colorful Spring

Some of the most beautiful signs of spring are actually planted months earlier. Fall is the time to plant spring-blooming bulbs, giving them the cold period they need before emerging with fresh color next year.

At White House Nursery, bulbs are expected to arrive September 21, with interesting varieties selected to give gardeners choices beyond the typical grocery store selection. It’s the perfect opportunity to plan a spring display that unfolds over several weeks rather than blooming all at once.

Why Plant Spring Bulbs in Fall?

Tulips, daffodils, alliums, crocus, and many other spring-flowering bulbs need to experience a period of cold before they can produce their spring display.

Planting in fall allows bulbs to settle into the soil and begin developing roots before winter.

Think of bulbs as a fall investment. A little digging now can deliver weeks of color just when you’re ready to see the garden come alive again.

Start the Season with Crocus

Crocus are among the welcome early signs of spring.

Their small size makes them easy to tuck into:

• Garden borders
• Rock gardens
• Areas beneath deciduous trees
• Small spaces between established perennials

Plant them in groups rather than individually for a more noticeable display.

Brighten Spring with Daffodils

Daffodils are a classic choice for cheerful spring color and come in many sizes, shapes, and shades beyond traditional yellow.

Use them in generous groupings throughout perennial beds, along walkways, or in naturalized areas for greater visual impact.

Make a Statement with Tulips

Tulips offer an incredible range of colors and flower forms.

Instead of planting one variety, consider combining tulips with different bloom periods. Early, midseason, and later-flowering selections can help extend the display.

For a polished look, repeat the same colors or varieties in several areas throughout the landscape.

Add Height with Alliums

Alliums bring something completely different to the spring garden. Their distinctive globe-shaped flowers rise above surrounding plants, adding height and architectural interest.

They’re especially striking when emerging among perennials that will later grow and help disguise fading bulb foliage.

Design for a Succession of Blooms

One of the best ways to get more from your bulb garden is to plan for flowers throughout the spring rather than one big burst of color.

Combine bulbs with different bloom periods, such as early crocus followed by daffodils and tulips, then later-blooming tulips and alliums.

This layered approach keeps something new appearing as the season progresses.

Plant in Groups for Greater Impact

A single tulip is pretty. A generous grouping makes a statement.

Instead of spacing bulbs individually throughout a large garden, plant them in clusters or drifts. Repeating those groupings around the landscape can create a more intentional and cohesive design.

You can also layer different types of bulbs in the same general area to maximize spring color.

Don’t Cut Foliage Too Soon

Once spring flowers fade, allow the foliage to remain until it naturally yellows and declines.

The leaves continue gathering energy that helps replenish the bulb for future growth. Removing healthy foliage too early can interfere with that process.

Planting bulbs among emerging perennials is a great way to help disguise fading foliage later in spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant spring-blooming bulbs?

Plant spring-blooming bulbs in fall after temperatures cool and before the ground freezes.

Which bulbs bloom earliest?

Crocus are among the earlier spring bloomers, making them a great addition when you want color as the garden begins waking up.

Can I mix different bulbs together?

Absolutely. Combining bulbs with different heights and bloom periods can create a longer and more interesting spring display.

How many bulbs should I plant together?

Groups generally create more visual impact than individual bulbs scattered throughout the garden. The ideal number depends on the variety and available space.

When are bulbs arriving at White House Nursery?

White House Nursery expects its spring-blooming bulb selection to arrive September 21, including interesting varieties selected beyond typical grocery store offerings.

Visit White House Nursery

Start planning next spring’s color this fall. Visit White House Nursery for a specially selected collection of spring-blooming bulbs, including beautiful options for creating a succession of flowers throughout the season.

White House Nursery
17422 Falls Road
Upperco, MD 21155