Planting the bulbs in the right direction is key. For
pointed bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths,
ensure the pointed part faces up toward the sky and the
flat part faces down into the ground. If you can't tell
which end is which, plant it sideways—this makes it
easier for the plant shoot and roots to grow in the correct
direction.
Care
Generally, bulbs are left in the ground for the next
season. Even when the plant is in decline, its leaves
continue to process food; therefore, it's important
not to disturb the leaves until they have died back
naturally and the bulb goes into dormancy (usually six
weeks after blooming has stopped). Until then, you should
cut only the spent blooms.
If the garden space will be used for annuals, bulbs
can be dug up (with their foliage intact) and stored
in a garden shed, garage or secluded area of your garden
until their foliage dies back naturally. They can then
be cleaned and stored somewhere cool and dry for planting
in the fall. It's good practice to dig up spring bulbs
every third year.
Emily Routly
Lee Valley staff
|
