Most Frequently Asked Questions About Flower Bulbs
Got questions about flower bulbs? Don’t worry, every gardener’s been there. Maybe you're staring at a bag of bulbs wondering, “How many of these do I really need?” Or you’re asking yourself, “Do I have to water them every day?” Maybe you’re just hoping they’ll come back next year and save you the trouble. Whatever’s on your mind, we’ve heard it all and we’re here to help. Keep reading for straight answers to the most frequently asked questions questions about flower bulbs we get from fellow gardeners.
What is the best time to plant flower bulbs?
We are specialized in flower bulbs that flower in spring like tulips, daffodils, snowdrops, hyacinths, crocus etc. and they should be planted in the fall. Plant them from September to December, making sure they’re in before the first ground frost.
Do I need to water my flower bulbs?
Immediately after planting, yes. This way they’ll quickly grow a good root system, which is vital for them to survive cold and maybe even freezing temperatures. If you plant flower bulbs in a pot the soil will dry out faster, so in the period just after planting you will need to water them a few times as well.
Which of my bulbs will come back next year?
There are two types of flower bulbs: annuals and naturalizing bulbs. Annual bulbs will give you an amazing display in their first year, and will very likely return in the next year, but not as abundantly. Over time they will stop coming up all together. Naturalizing flower bulbs will not only come back every year, but they will increase in number too.
Can you store flower bulbs?
Yes but we ship your flower bulbs the right planting time so ideally, you’d plant your flower bulbs as soon as they arrive. If you have to wait a little bit, you can store them in a cool, dry place like a basement or garage, but only for a while. Open up the bags or boxes as flower bulbs need fresh air. During this time make sure to check them often for fungus caused by high humidity. If you discover fungus, let the bulbs become dry to the touch and then plant them immediately afterwards.
What bulb varieties can scare mice away?
Unfortunately, there are no flower bulbs that can do this of their own volition. But there are other ways to ward off mice, voles, moles and other underground pests. You can plant flower bulbs deeply and then cover them up well with soil to deter mice. Another thing you can do is to create a barrier: Place chicken wire or fine netting around the edges of your planting bed and tuck it slightly into the soil.
What if I want to plant flower bulbs under shrubs and trees?
Flower bulbs, shrubs and trees will all be competing for the nutrients in the soil, so make sure the flower bulbs you plant are strong enough to survive on their own. Buying top sized is are the most important! Early-flowering bulbs will do very well here, as they will stand out among the still bare branches of the shrubs and trees. If you want years of flowering, with increased density every year, plant a mixture of at least six varieties of naturalizing bulbs that flower at successive times. Pick the spots that get the most sunlight and plant clusters of flower bulbs there or plant mixed groups close to the edges of the wooded area.
Do my flower bulbs need fertilizer?
In the first year that they grow, flower bulbs contain all the nutrients they need to bloom. However, fertilizing does help to keep them healthy and safe from diseases and pests. Good organic fertilizers are compost and manure, which improve the soil and give it a good structure for bulbs. Extra organic supplements can add nutritional balance. If you want to use compound mineral fertilizers you should check the label to see whether this specific variety is suitable for flower bulbs, and at what time of year you can best use it.
There’s been a mid-winter thaw. Won’t the next freeze kill the flowers? Should I protect my flower bulbs?
You don’t have to do anything. Sure, a severe frost may create some brown spots on the tips or leaves but the bulb should still flower. Flower bulbs are made to thrive in exactly this kind of weather situation, and a bit of yo-yo-ing temperature won’t stop them from flowering for you in spring. Read here how to protect your bulbs against cold temperatures.
How many bulbs do I need for my garden area?
If you want your spring display to really pop, skip the straight lines and go for clusters or drifts, they’ll look far more natural and full. Here’s a good rule of thumb: Tulips like a crowd, so aim for 5 to 10 bulbs per square foot. Daffodils do well at about 4 to 6 per square foot, and those little guys like crocus or grape hyacinths? Pack in 10 to 15 for a real carpet of color. As a golden rule, space your bulbs about 2 to 3 times their own width apart, that keeps things airy enough to grow well but tight enough to wow.
When should I plant my flower bulbs?
That depends on the type. Spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths should be planted in the fall, before the ground freezes. Summer bloomers like dahlias, lilies, and gladiolus go in the ground in spring, after the last frost.
Will my bulbs come back every year?
Some will, some won’t. Daffodils, alliums, and crocus are reliable perennials and will return each year if planted in the right spot. Tulips often act more like annuals, especially in warmer climates, though varieties like Darwin hybrid tulips and Wild tulips can return for a few seasons.
How deep should I plant my bulbs?
As a rule of thumb, plant bulbs about 2 to 3 times as deep as the bulb is tall. So a 2 inch bulb should go 4 to 6 inches deep. Always plant with the pointy end up!
How far apart should I plant bulbs?
As a rule of thumb, plant bulbs about 2 to 3 times as deep as the bulb is tall. So a 2 inch bulb should go 4 to 6 inches deep. Always plant with the pointy end up!
Can I plant bulbs in pots and containers?
Absolutely! Just make sure the pots have good drainage and use quality potting mix. If flower bulbs sit in soil that's too soggy, they will rot. You’ll need to protect them from extreme cold in winter if you’re in a freezing zone.
Why didn’t my bulbs bloom?
There are a few reasons; planting too shallow, poor drainage, critters eating the bulbs, or cutting the leaves too early the year before. Sometimes it just takes bulbs a year to settle in.
Can I leave bulbs in the ground year-round?
If they're hardy in your zone, yes! Just be sure the soil drains well over winter. In colder zones, tender summer bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus need to be lifted and stored.
Can I plant bulbs in warm climates?
Yes, but it depends on the bulb. In USDA zones 8-10, many spring bulbs need to be pre-chilled in the fridge for 10-12 weeks before planting. Or you can choose heat-tolerant varieties like ranunculus, anemones, amaryllis or paperwhites.
What’s the pointy side of the bulb?
Always plant the pointy side up! That’s where the shoot comes from. If you're not sure, plant it sideways, the bulb will usually figure it out.
Do I need to deadhead spent blooms?
For spring bulbs, it's a good idea to snip off faded flowers so energy goes into the bulb not seed production. But leave the foliage intact until it yellows and dies down naturally.
Why are my tulips coming up blind (no flowers)?
Tulips can go “blind” if they’re too crowded, didn’t get enough sunlight, or had their leaves removed too early the previous year. Sometimes they just wear out especially in warmer zones.
When can I cut flowers for a vase?
You can cut spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths when the buds are just starting to color but not fully open. Cut early in the day and use a clean knife or pruners.
What pests should I watch out for?
Squirrels and voles love digging up bulbs especially tulip and crocus bulbs. Consider using chicken wire, bulb cages, or planting less tasty bulbs like daffodils or alliums nearby to deter them.
How long do flower bulbs last?
With the right care, many perennial bulbs (like daffodils, alliums, and crocus) can last for decades. Others, like tulips, might fade after a couple of years and are best treated as replant-every-few-years types, especially in mild zones.
What do you do with flower bulbs after they bloom?
Once you have allowed the foliage to die back naturally, you can then dig up the bulbs. Make sure to discard any damaged or diseased bulbs and let the remaining bulbs dry. Store these in trays or nets in a dark, dry place over the summer, a garage or basement is often recommended, and replant in them in the fall. You can find more information on what to do with tulips and daffodils after they have finished flowering here.
Can I mix different types of bulbs in the same spot?
Definitely! Layering bulbs with different bloom times (called “lasagna planting”) is a great way to extend your display. Just plant larger, later-blooming bulbs like tulips or alliums deeper, and tuck smaller, earlier ones like crocus or snowdrops above them.
How long do flower bulbs take to bloom after planting?
Spring bulbs planted in the fall will bloom after a winter chilling period, usually 3 to 5 months later. Summer bulbs planted in spring (like dahlias or gladiolus) typically take 60 to 90 days to bloom, depending on variety and weather.
Do flower bulbs need full sun?
Most bulbs do best in full to partial sun. Spring bulbs can handle some shade since trees are still leafless early in the season, but for strong blooms and return performance, aim for at least 4-6 hours of light.
What’s the best soil for planting bulbs?
Well-draining soil is key. Bulbs hate sitting in soggy soil, which can lead to rot. If you have heavy clay, mix in compost or sand to improve drainage.
Can I plant bulbs in the lawn?
Yes, this is a popular way to create a naturalized meadow effect. Choose early bloomers like crocus or miniature daffodils that flower and die back before mowing season kicks in. Just don’t mow until the foliage dies down.
Do I need to lift my bulbs in the summer?
For hardy fall-planted bulbs (like daffodils or hyacinths), no. But tender summer bulbs like gladiolus, tuberous begonias and dahlias need to be lifted and stored in frost-prone zones after the first frost hits.
What if I forgot to plant my fall bulbs on time?
Plant them as soon as the ground is workable even if it’s late. Bulbs are living things and shouldn’t sit out too long. If the ground is frozen, pot them up and chill them outside or in a cold garage.
Can I grow bulbs indoors?
Yes, certain bulbs like amaryllis, paperwhites and saffron crocus. All other spring flowering bulbs can be “forced” indoors for winter blooms. You’ll need to chill most spring bulbs for 10-14 weeks in the fridge before bringing them into warmth and light.
How do I keep animals from digging up my bulbs?
Cover newly planted areas with chicken wire or mulch until growth starts. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper or use bulb dips or repellents. And plant daffodils, fritillaria, or alliums, they’re naturally critter-resistant.
What’s the best way to plan a long-blooming bulb display?
Choose a mix of early, mid and late season bloomers. For example: Early: snowdrops, crocus, dwarf iris. Mid: daffodils, hyacinths, mid-season tulips. Late: Late-season tulips, alliums and camassia. Staggered timing will keep color going in your garden for weeks on end. You can also choose our Eternal Spring Tulip Mix, this mix contains early, mid and late tulip varieties.
My bulbs are sprouting early, what should I do?
Don’t panic! If there's an unseasonably warm spell and you see green tips poking up in winter, they’ll usually survive just fine. Bulbs are tougher than they look. If a hard freeze is coming, you can gently mulch with straw or leaves to give them some extra protection.
Can I move bulbs after they've been planted?
It’s best to wait until the foliage has died back, usually late spring to early summer. Then you can dig them up and move them. Moving them mid-growth can shock the plant or interrupt blooming.
Do bulbs grow in clay soil?
They can, but you’ll want to improve the drainage. Mix in compost, sand, or fine gravel when planting. If your soil stays soggy after rain, consider planting bulbs in raised beds or containers.
Do bulbs grow in clay soil?
They can, but you’ll want to improve the drainage. Mix in compost, sand, or fine gravel when planting. If your soil stays soggy after rain, consider planting bulbs in raised beds or containers.
What’s the difference between a bulb, tuber, corm and bare root?
Great question! They're all underground storage organs, but different: Bulbs (like tulips, daffodils) are layered like onions. Tubers (like dahlias) are solid and have “eyes.” Corms (like gladiolus) are solid and rounded. Bare roots (like peonies) are thick horizontal stems that grow along the surface. They all function similarly storing energy for the plant to grow and bloom.
Do bulbs need to be chilled in the fridge?
Only if you live in a warm climate (zones 8-10) where the soil doesn’t naturally get cold enough. In those cases, chill hardy spring bulbs like tulips and hyacinths in the fridge for 10-14 weeks before planting.
How long do bulbs bloom once they start?
Most spring bulbs bloom for 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the type and weather. Cooler temps usually mean longer-lasting flowers. Alliums and daffodils often bloom longer than tulips.
Can I plant bulbs in a cut flower garden?
Yes! Tulips, daffodils, alliums and ranunculus make great cut flowers. Just leave behind some foliage if you want them to return next year. For longer stems, plant them deeper.
Why are my bulbs smaller this year?
Bulbs can shrink if they’re not getting enough sunlight or nutrients. Make sure to leave the leaves after blooming, don’t cut them too early, and consider feeding with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
What bulbs bloom the longest?
Alliums, daffodils and some species tulips tend to have longer bloom times. For summer, dahlias and lilies provide color for weeks and weeks. To keep things going, stagger bloom times and deadhead regularly.
Do I need to stake any bulbs?
Most don’t need it, but tall varieties like alliums, lilies and dinnerplate dahlias might benefit from staking, especially in windy spots. Stake early while they’re still small to avoid damaging roots later.
What should I do with the foliage after flowering?
Let it die back naturally. Those fading leaves are recharging the bulb for next year. Once the foliage is yellow and limp, you can trim it off. Cutting it too early weakens the bulb.
Can I leave bulbs in pots over winter?
Only if you’re in a mild climate or the pot is insulated. In cold zones, unprotected pots can freeze solid and kill the bulbs. Either move pots into a garage/shed or plant bulbs in the ground once they’ve gone dormant.
What's eating my bulbs?
Squirrels, voles and mice are the usual suspects especially for tulips and crocus. Daffodils and alliums are naturally resistant. You can protect bulbs with wire mesh, sharp gravel or repellents at planting time.
Are there bulbs that do well in shade?
Yes, snowdrops, spanish bluebells, scilla (squill), anemones (Blanda types) and leucojum are great options for shaded areas. They’re perfect for woodland-style gardens or under deciduous trees.
Why do my bulb have leaves but no flowers?
This is called “blindness.” It can happen from planting too shallow, too little sun, bulbs being overcrowded or removing foliage too early the previous year. Sometimes the bulbs just age out and need replacing.
Can I fertilize after bulbs bloom?
Yes, and it’s a good idea! A low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer after blooming can help bulbs store energy for next year’s flowers. Just avoid feeding during dormancy.
When should I divide my bulbs?
If clumps are getting crowded or bloom size is declining, it’s time. Wait until the foliage dies back, then dig them up, separate any offsets or new bulbs and replant them spaced out.
Are there bulbs that bloom in fall?
Yes! Saffron crocus, colchicum, nerine, dahlia and sternbergia are blooming in the fall. They bloom in summer to fall and are planted earlier in the year, often in summer. (Saffron crocus are for fall planting and bloom 5-8 weeks after planting).
Can I refrigerate bulbs next to fruit?
No, avoid it! Ripening fruits (especially apples) release ethylene gas, which can damage the bulbs and stop them from blooming. Keep bulbs in a separate crisper drawer or sealed paper bag away from produce.
What bulbs are best for beginners?
Start with daffodils, crocus, grape hyacinths, tulips and alliums. They’re tough, forgiving and almost always bloom well their first season. Tulips are beautiful, but a little fussier in warm climates.
Do bulbs need mulch?
Yes, mulch helps keep the soil temperature stable, conserves moisture and protects against temperature swings. Use shredded leaves, straw or bark mulch. Just don’t pile it too deep or right up to the crown of the plant.
Why did my bulbs rot?
Rot is usually caused by poor drainage or overwatering. Bulbs need well-drained soil or they’ll sit wet and decay. Always plant in loose, well-draining soil and avoid heavy clay unless it’s amended.
Can I reuse potting soil from last year’s bulbs?
It’s possible, but not ideal. Old soil can harbor pests or disease and may be depleted of nutrients. If reusing, mix in fresh compost or new potting mix and only do so if the previous bulbs were healthy.
What bulbs attract pollinators?
Plenty! Alliums, crocus, snowdrops, fritillaria, hyacinths, spanish bluebells, chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow) and tulips are all loved by bees and early pollinators. Planting a variety helps support them throughout the season.
What bulbs are deer resistant?
Go for daffodils, alliums, fritillaria, leucojum and camassia, they’re usually left alone. Tulips and crocus are favorites of deer so plant those with protection if they’re a problem in your area.
What bulbs are rodent resistant?
Go for daffodils, alliums, fritillaria, leucojum and camassia, they’re usually left alone. Tulips and crocus are favorites of squirrels, so plant those with protection if they’re a problem in your area.
What’s the easiest way to plant a lot of bulbs?
Dig one large trench or hole instead of planting each bulb individually, it saves time and helps with spacing. You can also use a bulb auger attached to a power drill to speed things up.
Can I plant bulbs in raised beds?
Absolutely, raised beds are great for bulbs, especially if your native soil has poor drainage. Just make sure the bed is deep enough for root development and doesn’t dry out too quickly in warmer months.
What happens if I plant bulbs upside down?
Don’t worry too much, most bulbs will correct themselves. But for best results, plant with the pointy end up (that’s the shoot). If you’re unsure, lay it on its side, nature will take it from there.
Why are my bulbs blooming shorter than expected?
Shorter stems can result from lack of sunlight, early-season heat or immature bulbs. It’s common in the first year or if temps fluctuate too fast in spring. They'll often grow taller the next season once settled.
Can I grow bulbs in hanging baskets?
Yes, smaller bulbs like crocus, grape hyacinths, snowdrops or even mini daffodils can look great in baskets. Use well-draining soil and protect the basket from freezing in colder zones.
Are flower bulbs environmentally friendly?
Yes, flower bulbs are low-maintenance and many naturalize over time, meaning less digging and fewer resources. Plus, crocus, alliums and many other bulbs support bees and pollinators especially when little else is blooming.
How do I naturalize bulbs?
Choose reliable spreaders like daffodils, crocus, snowdrops or scilla (Squill). Plant them in drifts or scatter them randomly in grass or woodland borders. Leave the foliage to die back naturally each year and avoid mowing too early.
Do I need to deadhead bulbs?
It’s not required, but removing spent blooms (especially daffodils and tulips) helps direct energy back to the bulb instead of seed production. Just don’t cut off the leaves until they’ve yellowed.
How do I dry and store bulbs I’ve dug up?
Let them air-dry in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight for a few days. Then store in paper bags, mesh sacks or shallow boxes with sawdust or newspaper. Keep them cool (around 50°F) and dry.
Can I grow bulbs hydroponically or in water?
Some can, especially hyacinths, paperwhites and amaryllis. You’ll need special forcing vases or containers that let the bulb sit just above water. Keep the roots in water, but the bulb itself dry.
Do bulbs need chilling if I’m in zone 7?
Most hardy bulbs (tulips, daffodils and hyacinths) will chill naturally outdoors in Zone 7. If fall is unusually warm, you can pre-chill in the fridge for 3-6 weeks before planting to be safe, but it’s usually not necessary.
What’s the difference between a specie tulip (Wild Tulip) and a hybrid tulip?
Species tulips are smaller, more natural-looking, and more likely to perennialize or naturalize. Hybrid tulips (like Darwin tulip bulbs or Triumph tulip bulbs) tend to have larger, flashier flowers but they often bloom best the first year and may fade over time.
Should I fertilize when planting bulbs?
It’s a good idea. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or bulb food at planting time. Mix it into the soil below where the bulbs will sit but never place fertilizer directly on the bulb.
Can I grow bulbs alongside perennials?
Definitely! Bulbs pair beautifully with perennials. You can plant early-spring bloomers like tulips and daffodils under or between hostas, daylilies or hardy geraniums, which help hide the bulb foliage as it fades.
How do I know if a bulb is dead?
Give it a gentle squeeze, if it’s mushy or hollow, it’s likely dead. A healthy bulb should feel firm and heavy for its size. If unsure, plant it anyway, it might still surprise you.
Are there bulbs that can handle soggy or wet areas?
Most bulbs hate soggy soil, but a few tolerate damp conditions, like camassia and leucojum (summer snowflake or giant snowflake). Still, good drainage is best for the majority of bulbs.
Can I mix bulb varieties in the same hole or pot?
Yes, and it’s a great way to create layered displays! Just match bulbs with similar light and water needs. In containers, put larger bulbs deeper, and smaller ones closer to the surface.
Can I grow bulbs in zones 9 and 10?
You can just pick heat-tolerant bulbs like amaryllis, rain lilies, crinum, paperwhites and ranunculus. For tulips, daffodils and hyacinths etc, you’ll need to pre-chill them for 10–12 weeks in the fridge before planting.
Can I plant bulbs in summer?
Most spring-blooming bulbs must be planted in the fall. But you can plant summer-flowering bulbs like dahlias, gladiolus, caladium, canna and tuberose in spring through early summer. Just check your zone and planting window.
Are bulbs okay to plant in rocky or gravelly soil?
Yes, many bulbs actually prefer well-drained, gravelly soils. Alliums, crocus and species tulips do particularly well. Just make sure they’re not completely dry and nutrient-deprived and mix in a little compost for best results.
Can I grow bulbs around trees and shrubs?
Yes, most spring bulbs bloom before trees leaf out, so they’re great under deciduous trees. Just make sure there’s still enough light and that the soil isn’t too root-packed for planting.
Which flower bulbs are having are having the most fragrant flowers?
Some bulbs smell incredible! Try hyacinths, narcissus (like ‘Yellow Cheerfulness’, 'Geranium', 'Bridal Crown' or ‘Thalia’), convallaria (lily of the valley), freesias, tuberose or Oriental lilies for strong, sweet scent in garden or vase.
How long do I need to wait before mowing over bulbs?
Wait until the foliage yellows and flops over naturally, usually this is 6-8 weeks after blooming. Mowing too soon weakens the bulbs and can reduce or stop flowering the next year.
Can I plant bulbs on a slope?
Yes, and it can help drainage, which bulbs love! Just be sure the slope doesn’t erode or dry out too quickly. Mulch can help hold moisture and soil in place.
Should I water bulbs during winter?
In most climates, no, let nature take care of it. In very dry winter areas (like parts of California), an occasional light watering may help if there's no rainfall, but don't overdo it.
Do bulbs attract bees and butterflies?
Absolutely! Crocus, alliums, snowdrops, daffodils and species tulips are especially good for bees in early spring. Lilies, freesias and gladiolus also attract pollinators in summer.
What bulbs bloom the earliest in spring?
Snowdrops, winter aconite, crocus, scilla (squill), chionodoxa (glory of the snow) and dwarf iris are the earliest flower bulbs to bloom in late winter/early spring. These even sometimes pop while snow is still on the ground.
What bulbs bloom latest in spring or early summer?
Try late tulips (like parrot tulips, single late tulips or fringed tulips), camassia, alliums and Spanish bluebells. They carry your garden through that gap between spring and summer perennials.
Can bulbs grow in woodland gardens?
Yes, snowdrops, leucojum, scilla, Spanish bluebells, anemones and mini daffodils are all great for shaded or dappled-light gardens under trees.
What’s the number one mistake gardeners make with bulbs?
Planting in poorly drained soil or cutting foliage too early. Both will weaken the bulb and reduce blooms. Give bulbs sun, drainage, time to die back naturally and they’ll reward you year after year.
With this information nothing can stop your patio, garden or balcony from becoming the sea of flowers you have always dreamed of. DutchGrown only ships the highest caliber of flower bulbs, to make sure you get the best bloom for your buck. Why not give your spring a beautiful start with these amazing collections?
