In autumn, worried looks are directed at the fresh green leaves on flower bulbs. It is far too early for budding at this time of year. Why do flower bulbs sprout in autumn? What to do? Read understandable answers with tried-and-tested tips here.
Why do flower bulbs sprout in autumn and what can I do about it?
Flower bulbs emerge in autumn when mild temperatures and sunshine activate them prematurely. To protect the fresh leafy greens, cover them with a layer of mulch made from autumn leaves, spruce branches, compost or coconut soil and, if necessary, stretch a fleece over it.
Why do flower bulbs sprout in autumn?
Mild temperatures are the most common cause when flower bulbs sprout in autumn. If in October and NovemberKaiserwetter there is bright sunshine and temperatures at Indian summer levels, early bloomers sprout new green leaves prematurely from their tubers. You should not sit idly by and watch this process. Please read on.
What to do when flower bulbs sprout in autumn?
When flower bulbs sprout in autumn, it is best to protect the fresh green leaves with a thickmulch layer Premature sprouting undermines the frost tolerance of tulips, daffodils, crocuses and snowdrops. There is a risk of rot and mold due to winter moisture. These protective measures have proven effective for flower bulbs in beds and containers:
- Cover shoots with autumn leaves and spruce branches.
- Pile up compost or coconut soil above the leaf shoots.
- Stretch a fleece (€49.00 at Amazon) over the leaves.
- Place potted flower bulbs with early shoots in the cool shade.
Tip
Grape hyacinths always sprout in autumn
There is no need to worry when grape hyacinths (muscari) sprout in the fall. By the end of August, the green leaves are sprouting on the cute, blue spring flowers. This process does not harm the flowers. Of course, the grape hyacinth leaves look spoiled after the winter. You can prevent premature sprouting by digging up the hyacinth bulbs after flowering, leaving them over the summer like tulip bulbs and replanting them in late autumn.
