The fall season is officially here, and down at Garden Supply, we are in full autumn mode. Not only is the Greenhouse bursting with fun fall and Halloween home decor and gift items, the Garden Center has also been fully loaded and re-stocked with glorious plants, just in time for your fall planting. It looks gorgeous down here. We've got all your fall favorites, whether it's mums or pansies, ornamental grasses or cabbages. We've got trees and shrubs and perennial tables full of bloom. There are cold weather vegetables for those of you who like to grow your own. And we also have a wonderful selection of fall bulbs that are sure to fill your gardens with flowers come spring.
Spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips and daffodils must be planted in the fall or early winter to bloom in spring because they require a long period of cool temperatures to spark the biochemical process that causes them to flower. In fall, it's important to get them into the ground before the ground freezes. This will give them time to develop strong roots.
Planting times vary, depending upon the climate zone, but as a general rule, planting earlier is better than later. Bulbs need to establish strong root systems, before the frosts of winter set in and the bulbs enter a new cycle in preparation for spring blooming. Remember to plant bulbs in an area that drains well and water newly planted bulbs to help those roots get going!
When digging holes for your bulbs, the general rule of thumb to follow is plant large bulbs 8 inches deep, and 6 inches apart and small bulbs 5 inches deep, 3 inches apart with all pointed ends up. Add fertilizer or bulb food before replacing soil. Top with 3 inches of mulch to retain moisture and protect the bulbs.
Come talk to our friendly experts about adding spring-blooming bulbs to your existing planting beds or pick up tips on naturalizing smaller bulbs directly in your sodded areas. Your efforts now will pay off with bounties of blossoms late next winter and well into spring.
Thanks for stopping by, and I'll see you back here soon for more snippets from the garden.