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new england
Optimum
Planting Time: September 15th � November 15th
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3,
4, 5
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "A" � New England
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall starting when nighttime temperatures stay
between 40-50�F. But, be sure to plant approximately six weeks before the
ground freezes to allow sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best
in cool soil and once rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from
freezing. Water your bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting
process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern bone
meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: For those in colder areas, it may be
possible to "extend" the reach of marginally winter-hardy bulbs by
planting in warmer 'micro-climates.' Tips: a) choose sites protected from
wind and extreme cold exposure, b) mulch heavily, and c) plant deeper.
It's worth a try if you really want to grow something "just beyond" your
hardiness zone range.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus �Accent�
N. �Actaea�
N. �Sun Disc�
Tulipa �Pink Impression�
T. �Lady Jane�
T. �Maureen�
Allium christophii
Crocus chrysanthus �Ard
Schenk�
Erythronium �Pagoda�
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
Scilla siberica
N. poeticus var. recurvus
T.
clusiana 'Cynthia'
Allium moly
Eranthis cilicica
Galanthus nivalis
Colchicum byzantinum
Crocus tommasinianus
Mid-Atlantic Coastal
Optimum Planting Time: October 1st - November 30th
USDA
Hardiness Zones: 6,7,8
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "B" � Mid-Atlantic Coastal
In your area, you may be able to grow many of the tropical and other
marginally hardy plants by planting in warmer 'micro-climates' protected
from exposure to winds and extreme cold. If you're concerned about bulb
foliage that emerges in the fall or winter, put a light pine needle or
straw mulch around the leaves to protect them from frost burn (but don't
worry, such leaf damage is only cosmetic and won't affect the flowers).
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern bone
meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: If voles or other animal pests are
eating your tulips, crocuses or lilies, spraying the bulbs with a product
such as Ropel may help protect them. To ward off subterranean "bulb
rustlers," try placing Vole Block or sharp granules of a gravel-like
substance around bulbs to help create a physical barrier. Regarding deer,
trials of products such as Deer Off, which must be applied at emergence
and until bloom, have had some success.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Camelot'
N. 'Tahiti'
N.
'Quail'
N. 'Rip van Winkle'
Tulipa 'Flair'
T. 'Parade'
T. praestans fusilier
Allium
nigrum
Anemone blanda 'White Splendour'
Hyacinthus 'Blue Giant'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
N. bulbocodium conspicuus
N. obvallaris
T. clusiana var. chrysantha
Chionodoxa forbesii
Crocus tommasinianus
Hyacinthoides hispanicus
Ipheion
uniflorum
Ornithogalum nutans
region - c - appalachian
Optimum Planting Time: September 15th - November 30th
USDA
Hardiness Zones: 5, 6
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "C" - Appalachian
You have a moderate to cold winter climate and mild summers with
adequate moisture. The variety of elevations in your region offers many
opportunities for different planting styles.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: The opportunity to plant on banks and
hillsides offers many creative possibilities for designs and artistic
combinations - even spelling out words in flowers. Mulching in this
climate may be important to protect bulb foliage from late spring frosts.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Avalon'
N. 'Ice Follies'
N.
'Cheerfulness'
N. 'Hawera'
Tulipa 'Apricot Beauty'
T. 'Monte Carlo'
T. 'Pink Impression'
Allium karataviense
Colchicum 'Waterlily'
Crocus
sieberi 'Firefly'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return
& multiply)
Chionodoxa sardensis
Crocus ancyrensis 'Golden Bunch'
Erythronium dens-canis (in woodland areas)
Fritillaria meleagris (in damp meadow areas)
Geranium
tuberosum
Hyacinthoides hispanica
Scilla bifolia
South Atlantic Coastal
Optimum Planting Time: October 15th - December 15th
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 7, 8
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "D" � South Atlantic Coastal
Yours is a moderate climate with hot moist summers and cool to cold
moist winters. You will be able to grow an enormous number of
spring-flowering bulbs successfully. However, due to your moist
conditions, only specific bulb cultivars will perennialize well. Local
experts and garden centers will have recommendations.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Most spring-flowering bulbs need to
remain relatively dry during their dormancy. Do not plant them where you
have 'mindless summer irrigation' (a sprinkler system that comes on like
clockwork, whether you need it or not). Planting in elevated beds (6"-12"
above normal soil level) will help to alleviate this problem and aid in
perennialization.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'
N. 'Avalanche'
N. 'Bridal Crown'
N. 'Sweetness'
N. 'Jumblie'
Tulipa
'Orange Emperor'
T. 'Beauty of Apeldoorn'
Leucojum aestivum
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
N. bulbocodium (in the lawn)
N. jonquilla (loves
hot summer baking)
T. saxatilis
Allium sphaerocephalon
Arum italicum (in the shade)
Chionodoxa forbesii
Crocus tommasinianus
Ipheion uniflorum (in the lawn)
Region "E" � Great Lakes
Optimum Planting Time: September 15th � November 15th
USDA
Hardiness Zones: 5, 6, 7
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "E" � Great Lakes
You have the benefit of a
climate moderated by the Great Lakes. However, you can experience fairly
extreme climate changes and often heavy winds. Choosing shorter, sturdier
cultivars that stand up better to the windy conditions may be appropriate,
depending on local conditions. Later blooming cultivars may be less
affected by late freezes but their flowers may not last as long if hot
spells hit in late spring.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern bone
meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Deer can be major problem with edible
tulips and lilies. Cornell University trials of products such as Deer Off,
which must be applied at emergence and until bloom, have had some success.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Las Vegas'
N. 'Topolino'
N. 'Camelot'
N. 'Romance'
Tulipa
'Princess Irene'
T. 'Big Smile'
T.
'Burgundy Lace'
Allium 'Globemaster'
Colchicum
'Giant'
Fritillaria Imperialis 'Rubra Maxima'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return
& multiply)
Allium triquetrum (in woodland areas)
Crocus
tommasinianus 'Ruby Giant'
Eranthis cilicica (in damp
woodland areas)
Erythronium (in woodland areas)
Leucojum aestivum (at a stream edge)
Scilla siberica
(in woodland areas or lawn)
Triteleia 'Queen Fabiola'
(in dry meadow areas)
Region "F" � East Central
Optimum Planting Time: October 1st - November 30th
USDA
Hardiness Zones: 5, 6, 7
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "F" � East Central
Yours is an excellent
area for most spring-flowering bulbs with moderately cold winters, ample
moisture, and warm to hot summers.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall starting when
nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to plant
approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow sufficient time
for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once rooted undergo
natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your bulbs after
planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern bone
meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb beds with a
lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or chopped up
leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and maintain a
consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Extend the bloom season by selecting a range of
bulbs that flower throughout the early-spring, mid-spring and late-spring
seasons. Remember that daffodils, leucojum, galanthus and other members of
the Amaryllidaceae family are generally considered pest-resistant.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for several
years)
- Narcissus 'Gigantic Star'
- N. 'Fortissimo'
- N. 'Pink Charm'
- N. 'Tete-a-Tete'
- Tulipa 'Golden Parade'
- T. 'Monsella'
- T. 'Red Riding Hood'
- Allium schubertii
- Chionodoxa 'Pink Giant'
- Crocus chrysanthus 'Ard Schenk'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return & multiply)
- Allium roseum
- Anemone nemorosa (in woodland areas)
- Chionodoxa forbesii
- Crocus sieberi 'Firefly'
- Crocus tommasinianus
- Geranium tuberosum
- Hyacinthoides hispanica
- Nectaroscordum siculum
Region "G" � South Central
Optimum Planting Time: October 15th - December 15th
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 7, 8
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "G" � South Central
Your moderate climate
with its mildly cold winters and hot, humid summers, suits most
spring-flowering bulbs except for those that have longer cold requirements
and drier summer dormancy.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: A number of bulbs do naturalize in this
climate. Many heirloom or 'pass along' bulbs are found around old homes
and cemeteries. Some tropical, semi-tender bulbs winter-over here with
proper micro-climate placement and a mulch blanket.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Cheerfulness'
N. 'Jetfire'
N. 'Minnow'
N. 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'
N. 'Thalia'
Tulipa 'Oxford'
T.
turkestanica
Hippeastrum (Amaryllis-'Tulips' for the south)
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return
& multiply)
N. jonquilla
T. clusiana 'Cynthia'
T. saxatilis
Allium neapolitanum
Allium sphaerocephalon
Dracunculus
vulgaris
Muscari neglectum
Triteleia laxa 'Queen Fabiola'
region "H" � Tropical
Optimum Planting Time: December 1st - January 31st
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 10
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "H" � Tropical
Your climate seldom if ever
gets a frost and has hot humid summers. It is the ideal climate for a vast
assortment of summer-blooming, tropical bulbs, but not particularly
hospitable to the traditional hardy spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips.
General Instructions:
The range of lush tropical
bulbs available to you is mind-boggling ("to die for" as some Northerners
would say!). But hardy spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips are a fish
out of water, in your neck of the woods. Still, if you crave seeing tulips
in spring, check out your local garden retailer or florist for pots of
nursery-grown tulips and other traditional spring bloomers.
Special Note: The group of bulbs below are from warmer
climates that do not require much if any cooling. Hippeastrum (amaryllis)
-- which thrive in hot, humid climates -- make perfect 'tulips for the
south' with their sturdy stems and large velvety flowers in a broad range
of colors (including stripes!). In general, in areas where the garden
isn't far above sea level, raised beds can improve drainage after hot,
humid, summer storms.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Hippeastrum Papilio 'Butterfly'
Hippeastrum
'Naughty Lady'
Other Hippeastrum (amaryllis)
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return
& multiply)
Oxalis regnellii var. triangularis
Oxalis tetraphylla
Oxalis tetraphylla 'Iron Cross'
And many other tender
summer-flowering bulbs
"I" � Gulf Coast
Optimum Planting Time: October 1st - December 31st
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 8, 9
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "I" � Gulf Coast
Your area, with its mild
winter climate and hot humid summers, is perfect for most summer-blooming
bulbs - and fine for a surprising number of spring bloomers too, if
carefully chosen.
General Instructions:
Most daffodils and other
narcissi will thrive in your area even without pre-cooling, but tulips
will require more effort! Most hardy spring-flowering bulbs must be
treated as annuals in your area as there is not normally a long enough
cold period to trigger the bloom cycle. To pre-cool tulips, hyacinths and
crocuses, store at 35-45� F, for instance in a refrigerator crisper
drawer, for a minimum of 8+ weeks and up to 14+ weeks. It's important to
avoid storing bulbs near ripening fruit, as it gives off ethylene gas
which can damage the flower inside the bulb. Once removed from cool
storage, plant bulbs immediately.
Special Note: Your best bets are bulbs that originate
from warmer climates and do not require much if any cooling. Top
performers are listed below. Other local favorites for fall planting
include freesias, Anemone coronaria, and rununculus. Among the tulips
(which do require cooling), Darwin Hybrids are reported as among the best
performers.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Avalanche'
N. 'Baby Moon'
N. 'Carlton'
N. 'Erlicheer'
N.
'Saint Keverne'
Pancratium maritimum
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
N. jonquilla
N. odorus campernelli
Dracunculus vulgaris
Gladiolus communis byzantinus
Hyacinthoides hispanica
Ipheion
uniflorum
Leucojum aestivum
Ornithogalum nutans
Oxalis
tetraphylla 'Iron Cross'
Region "J" � Northern Central
Optimum Planting Time: September 15th � November 1st
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 3, 4, 5
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "J" � Northern Central
This lovely area has
very cold winters and moderate summers. The moisture level is moderate to
dry.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Because this area may have a greater
risk of a dry autumn, a bit of extra water after planting may help the
rooting process. When there is little or no snow cover, an extra layer of
mulch should help keep the bulbs at a consistent cool temperature after
they have rooted, resulting in more beautiful blossoms.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Actaea'
N. 'Hillstar' (American bred)
N. 'Manly'
N. 'Sun Disc'
Tulipa
'Greenland'
T. 'Menton'
T. 'White
Triumphator'
Allium aflatunense 'Purple Sensation'
Camassia cusickii (damp meadow)
Eremurus robustus
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
N. poeticus var. recurvus
T. clusiana chrysantha
Allium
flavum
Allium oreophilum
Eremurus stenophyllus
Muscari azureum
Scilla siberica
Region "K" � Central & Great
Plains
[Optimum Planting Time: September
30th - November 30th
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5, 6
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "K" � Central & Great Plains
Your
climate can experience cold winters and hot summers with occasional
extreme temperature variations and moderate moisture. With a little care,
conditions are great for a wide variety of hardy spring-flowering bulbs.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Plant your spring-flowering bulbs in
areas with less exposure to wind and extreme cold to extend blooming
season and to protect early or late bloomers from extremes in temperature
variation. If the spring is dry, water weekly while the foliage is green.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Cassata'
N. 'Quince'
N. 'Sir
Winston Churchill'
N. 'Suzy'
Tulipa batalinii
'Bright Gem'
T. 'Mickey Mouse'
T. 'Olympic
Flame'
Allium 'Gladiator'
Hyacinthus 'Pink
Pearl'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
T. tarda
Allium caeruleum
Chionodoxa forbesii (for
shady areas)
Crocus tommasinianus
Dichelostemma congestum
Eremurus stenophyllus
Ixiolirion tataricum
Muscari armeniacum
Region "L" � Rocky Mountains
Optimum Planting Time: September 15th � November 1st
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 2, 3, 4
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "L" � Rocky Mountains
Your largely alpine
environment with long cold winters and moderate summers make a good
environment for hardy spring-flowering bulbs.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: A very good area for growing bulbs
according to Rocky Mountain authors/gardeners, Rob Proctor and Lauren
Springer. They integrate lots of different kinds of bulbs into their
myriad of colorful gardens in and around Denver.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Flower Drift'
N. 'Flower Record'
N. 'Salome'
N. 'Sun Disc'
Tulipa
'Lady Jane'
T. 'Ivory Floradale' (& other Darwin
Hybrid tulips)
T. 'Toronto'
Colchicum autumnale
Crocus speciosus
Species crocus
Iris reticulata
'Harmony'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
N. poeticus var. recurvus
T. tarda
Allium
caeruleum
Allium flavum
Allium neapolitanum
Camassia
leichtlinii
Eremurus stenophyllus
Erythronium
Region "M" � Arid West
Optimum Planting Time: September 30th - November 30th
USDA
Hardiness Zones: 5, 6, 7
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "M" � Arid West
Your region of relatively
long cool winters, very hot to moderate dry summers and low moisture, is
good for growing many bulbs, especially those native to dry climates.
Though this is true for most of this large diverse region, your
specific climatic conditions should be taken into account. You must
especially consider major factors like high-mountain altitude,
low-desert heat and sheltered valley basin environments.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Because this region encompasses numerous
pockets of extreme climate variance, we suggest supplementing the
information here by referring to Sunset Publication's Western Garden Book
or going to http://www.sunset.com/. Both sources include
information on some ten specific climates within this region.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Hawera'
N. 'Quail'
N.
'Scarlet Gem'
N. 'Sun Disc'
Tulipa bakeri 'Lilac
Wonder'
T. batalinii 'Bronze Charm'
T. linifolia
T. 'Queen of Night'
T. 'White Triumphator'
Allium karataviense 'Ivory Queen'
Crocus vernus
cultivars
Muscar cultivars
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
Allium neapolitanum
Allium uniflorum
Eremurus
Fritillaria purdyi
Triteleia hyacinthia
Ipheion
Region "N" � Northern Pacific
Coast
Optimum Planting Time: October 1st - December 1st
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 8
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "N" � Northern Pacific Coast
With long
cool, wet winters and springs, followed by dry summers and falls, your
region is close to perfect for many spring-flowering bulbs. This climate
is about as close to the English countryside as we have in the USA.
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall
starting when nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to
plant approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow
sufficient time for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once
rooted undergo natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your
bulbs after planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern
bone meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb
beds with a lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or
chopped up leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and
maintain a consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Begin to plant when the soil cools off
but before the weather becomes too wet and uncomfortable, making planting
a chore instead of a pleasure. Because your zone 8 looks to be warm on the
USDA Hardiness Map, be sure to let mail order companies know you need your
bulbs delivered before the heavy rains come. Provide a specific delivery
week. Otherwise, they may send your order too late.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Narcissus 'Accent'
N. 'Flower Record'
N.
'Jetfire'
N. 'Pipit'
Tulipa 'Angelique'
T. 'Black Parrot'
T. 'Little Beauty'
Allium rosenbachianum
Anemone blanda 'Blue Shades'
Dactylorhiza maculata 'Madame Butterfly'
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
Anemone ranunculoides
Arum italicum
Calochortus
'Golden Orb'
Dichelostemma 'Pink Diamond'
Eranthis
cilicica
Galanthus nivalis 'Viridi-apice'
Hermodactylus
tuberosa
Nectaroscordum siculum
Region "O" � Southern Pacific
CoastAl
Optimum Planting Time: See Below
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9, 10
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "O" � Southern Pacific Coast
There are two major fall planting seasons for the Southern
Pacific Coast:
Plant Mid-August (or as soon as available) into
December
Bulbs native to Mediterranean and other climates, such as:
babiana,
sparaxis, tritonia, watsonia, bearded iris, ixia, Oxalis purpurea,
Scilla Peruviana, freesias, the small alliums, etc.
Plant Mid-October through late January
Dutch bulbs including daffodils, dwarf narcissi, rununculus,
Anemone coronaria, Spanish bluebells, muscari (grape hyacinths),
lilies, Dutch iris.
Many are envious of your glorious year-round weather. But few realize
how great your region is for gardening with flower bulbs! True, many of
the bulbs you plant in fall are different from those planted in the other
regions. Classic "spring bulbs" such as tulips, hyacinths and crocuses
will need pre-cooling before planting in your region and will most likely
perform as annuals. (See pre-cooling info below).
But others - including the big yellow trumpet daffodils, dwarf
narcissi, and iris -- need no special treatment at all and should
perennialize or naturalize, if not heavily watered when bulbs are dormant
(after flowering, once leaves have died back). Some tulips do better than
others for you: try Single Lates, Double Lates, Lily-Flowered, and some of
the species types. Local garden centers are generally reliable for
stocking bulbs appropriate to your region.
Special Note: To pre-cool tulips, hyacinths and
crocuses, store at 35-45� F, for instance in a refrigerator crisper
drawer, for a minimum of 6 weeks and up to 14+ weeks. It's important to
avoid storing bulbs near ripening fruit, as it gives off ethylene gas
which can damage the flower inside the bulb. Once removed from cool
storage, plant bulbs immediately. Once cooled at least six weeks, bulbs
may be planted anytime from November through January - and regardless of
when planted, they will bloom in late February/March.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for
several years)
Tulip 'Lilac Wonder'
Narcissus 'Avalanche'
N. 'Carlton'
N. 'Ice Follies'
N.
'Golden Bells'
N. 'Jenny'
N. 'Thalia'
N. 'Jetfire'
N. 'Tete-a-tete'
Dutch iris
Lilies
The small alliums
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return &
multiply)
Allium sphaerocephalon
Spanish bluebells
Scilla
Peruviana
Oxalis purpurea
Bearded iris
Paperwhite
narcissi (all types)
Freesia
Watsonia
Sparaxis
Tritonia
Leucojum aestivum
Ixia
Region "P" � Alaska
Optimum Planting Time: September 15th - October 15th
USDA Hardiness
Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
A Guide to U.S. Bulb Planting Regions
Region "P" � Alaska
Your area is large and
variable. Most common are very long, dark, cold winters, short days and a
short growing season. However, a little creativity can go a long way!
General Instructions:
Plant bulbs in the fall starting when
nighttime temperatures stay between 40-50�F. But, be sure to plant
approximately six weeks before the ground freezes to allow sufficient time
for rooting. Bulbs will root best in cool soil and once rooted undergo
natural changes that keep them from freezing. Water your bulbs after
planting to help them start the rooting process.
After planting, apply slow release "bulb food" fertilizer on the top of
the ground to supply nutrients for the second year's bloom. (Bulbs are
already fully charged with energy for peak flowering performance in their
first spring bloom season.) Do not put the fertilizer in the hole with the
bulb as this may burn the bulb's tender roots. PLEASE NOTE: Modern bone
meal generally has little value as a bulb fertilizer and often draws
rodents and dogs that dig up the bulbs looking for bones!
After the ground cools or freezes, cover your bulb beds with a
lightweight mulch (pine needles, buckwheat hulls, straw or chopped up
leaves) 2 � 4 inches thick to help keep down weeds and maintain a
consistently cool soil temperature.
Special Note: Plant your spring-flowering bulbs in warmer
protected areas with less exposure to wind and extreme cold to extend
blooming season and protect early or late bloomers from extremes in
temperature variation. If the spring is dry, water weekly while the
foliage is green.
A Sampling of Bulbs for Perennializing: (return for several
years)
- Allium christophii
- Allium 'Mount Everest'
- Trumpet Narcissus
- Small Cupped Narcissus
- N. 'Actaea'
- Greigii Hybrid Tulips
- Darwin Hybrid Tulips
A Sampling of Bulbs for Naturalizing: (return & multiply)
- Allium moly
- Allium oreophilum
- Camassia leichtlinii
- Chionodoxa forbesii
- Crocus tommasinianus
- Fritillaria camschantcensis
- Galanthus elwesii
- N. poeticus var. recurvus
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