Plant a Spring Garden Right Now

I wrote the following article for the Uinta County Herald in October several years ago.  Now is a great time to be planting bulbs and looking ahead to next year, so I'm republishing it here.

Plant a Spring Garden Right Now

Sara's park strip

The leaves are falling, the grass is turning brown, and of course there’s the snow.  If you are one of those who dread the next few months of dreary fall and winter, consider planting a spring-blooming garden right now.  In early spring, when you think the winter drab will never end, brightly-colored crocuses will give you hope.  And when your yard is abloom with tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils, you will be glad you made the effort.

Grape Hyacinths

When gardeners speak in general of planting “bulbs,” they are usually referring to both “bulbs” and “corms.”  While the botanical structure of bulbs and corms differs, planting techniques are the same. 

Purchase your hardy bulbs in the fall, choosing those that are solid and not moldy, soft, or dried.  Larger bulbs will give you a larger blossom for some bulbs, such as tulips.  It’s important to store the bulbs properly until you plant them.  Keep them dry and cool, below 65 degrees.

Daffodils

Site preparation is important before planting bulbs.  Well-drained soil is vital for most, since they rot in wet soil.  Drainage can be improved by adding organic matter, or consider planting in a raised bed.  First, remove all weeds from the garden site.  Then loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches, digging in 3-4 inches of organic material, such as compost.  A slow-release or general formulation fertilizer should be incorporated into the soil below the root level.  Bulbs should never be placed directly on fertilizer.

Double Daffodils

Generally speaking, bulbs should be planted at a depth of about 3 times their height.  If they aren’t planted deep enough, they can frost heave or be easily dug up by rodents.  Mulch with 2 to 4 inches of composted leaves, shredded bark, or composted sawdust.  After planting, bulbs need to be watered thoroughly to encourage root growth.  Supplemental watering may be needed throughout the fall and winter.  In spring, fertilize when shoots are about an inch tall.  After bloom, let the leaves wither and turn brown naturally so the bulbs can build up another store of food for next year’s bloom.

Crocus

Although you might be thinking you are through with yard work this season, decide now to plant a spring-blooming garden.  You will be rewarded with a beautiful yard for many springs to come.

by Sara