In autumn there are plenty of flower bulbs available in garden centers and supermarkets. Is this because this time of year is the optimal planting date? Adhering to it is extremely important because it determines whether we actually see the bulbs we plant bloom.
When is the best time to plant flower bulbs?
The optimal planting time for spring bloomers such as squill, hyacinths, crocuses, daffodils and tulips is in autumn, preferably from mid/late September. Flower bulbs can be planted as an alternative in spring (March to April), while frost-sensitive bulbs should only be planted from mid-May.
Planting time for spring bloomers
The planting time for spring bloomers such as squill, hyacinths, crocuses, daffodils and tulips is in autumn every year. Although the plants only sprout and bloom in spring. As a rule, the time from mid/late September is ideal. When the flower bulbs should actually be planted depends on the weather.
- the ground must not be frozen
- can even be planted in frost-free soil until December
- If the weather is very mild, it's better to wait a little longer
- the roots will not grow optimally
- premature budding can also occur
- ideal is a soil temperature that is permanently below 12 degrees Celsius
Tip
Plant the flower bulbs as soon as the ideal conditions are met. Long and improper storage robs them of part of their driving force.
Alternative planting date
The planting date in autumn is ideal because it gives the flower bulbs time to develop roots. If for some reason you forgot to plant flower bulbs in the fall, nature offers you a second good opportunity to catch up on this gardening work: spring. If you plant the flower bulbs in spring, you should do so in March, or April at the latest.
Frost sensitive onions
The flower bulbs that bloom in summer usually do not originate in our latitudes. They come from tropical areas where frost is not part of the weather repertoire. Under no circumstances should they be planted in autumn.
The time for these flower bulb varieties doesn't come until mid-May, when they can no longer freeze outside. These include the popular gladioli, dahlias and begonias.
Exotic onion plants can, however, grow weeks in advance in a warm and bright room. If you start doing this in February or March, they can be in full bloom as early as May.
Flower bulbs in pots
Spring bloomers that are supposed to bloom in pots or balcony boxes are also planted in autumn. However, they are more sensitive to frost. Sunny winter days are also unfavorable for them because they stimulate budding far too early.
Flower bulbs in pots are overwintered in the cellar for these reasons. Alternatively, the pots can remain outside, but must be protected with Styrofoam or fleece. If you don't have the opportunity to safely overwinter the flower bulbs, you should wait until spring to plant them.
Flower decorations for the house
If we want to experience cheerful, colorful flowers at home in the dreary winter, flower bulbs are ideal for this. Most species not only bring color, but also an enchanting scent.
In winter you can put spring bloomers in a glass jar with a layer of stones and some water. This has a decorative effect from root to flower.
