Bulbs for Fall

Fall is the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. Spring flowering bulbs are some of the easiest plants to grow and some of the most rewarding. Most bulbs bloom in early spring and provide a nice succession of color before the summer-flowering shrubs and perennials reach their peak bloom. There is nothing quite like the pleasure I derive from the garden when the crocus and daffodils start to bloom, many times right through the late season snowfalls. The flowering period of tulips can be spread from March through May by selecting varieties from different classes

Planting spring-flowering bulbs in the fall is crucial to giving the bulbs an adequate long period of cool temperatures to induce spring flowering. Many bulbs must have a certain number of days below a particular temperature that is needed to induce flowering. There are hundreds of bulb varieties from which to choose with the most popular being narcissus (daffodils), crocus, hyacinths and tulips. Tulips are by far the most precious spring-flowering bulbs with a tremendous range of colors and styles. However, they are also the most unreliable in Missouri as repeat bloomers in successive seasons. Tulips struggle with heavy, wet soils and are very susceptible to bulb rots and slug damage. Many gardeners in Missouri have given up the struggle and consider tulips annuals; however, gardeners have had more success with varieties labeled as "great for naturalizing" or "perennial" in their description. Location is also crucial to the success of tulips, and good drainage greatly improves their durability. Also, foliage should be allowed to grow as long as possible after flowering to improve chances of repeat performance. Tulips can be planted up until the ground freezes and should be planted at a depth of 7-8 inches deep.

Bulbs that do very well in Missouri are daffodils, grape hyacinths, reticulated iris, scillas and snowdrops. In Missouri, it is hard to surpass the daffodil for repeat blooming and dependability. Daffodil bulbs are not attractive as food for small animals through the winter, whereas, tulips are very attractive food and may be devoured through the winter. As with tulips, daffodils prefer good drainage and are best planted before the end of October. Daffodils should be planted at a depth of 7-8 inches deep.

There are many spring-flowering bulbs for fall planting that are sometimes referred to as the ‘minor-bulbs’ as they are lesser known and not as widely used. One of my favorites is Leucojum, or summer snowflake. It is very similar to another bloomer, snowdrop, and they usually flower quite early in the spring. They produce nodding white flowers and people walking past my gardens always notice them.

Another very early flowering small bulb is reticulated iris. Reticulated iris grow to about 4 inches tall and produce beautiful flowers in lavender or purple. The Danford iris is very similar to the reticulated iris, only its bloom color is yellow and is a wonderful complement to the spring purples and whites. One of the easiest small bulbs to grow are grape hyacinths, and they work wonderfully for naturalizing. Foliage appears in late fall, but they flower in early spring. Flowers range in color from dark blue to white.

For the best display, always groups bulbs in numbers of 5 to 12. Minor bulbs should be grouped in larger numbers with the most spectacular displays using 50 or more bulbs. Minor bulbs should be spaced 3 inches apart. Bulbs may be planted in full sun or partial shade and do well under deciduous trees as they bloom before the trees leaf out.

Mary Kroening, Missouri Master Gardener Coordinator and UMC Horticulturalist, (573) 882-9633