When to Plant Spring Bulbs

Timing Is Everything

Planting bulbs requires thinking ahead: spring-flowering bulbs need to be planted in fall in order to bloom come showtime. The bulbs need a certain amount of time to get established before winter's freezing weather sets in, and they need enough time exposed to cool soil temperatures to be properly chilled. But fall doesn't occur at the same time on the calendar in San Antonio, Texas, as it does in Minneapolis, Minnesota. So how do you know when to plant? Follow the steps below and you'll have plenty of flowers come springtime.

Know Your Hardiness Zone

The simplest way to know when to plant bulbs is to use Canada's Plant Hardiness Zone Map as your planting guide. This map breaks the country into growing zones based on average annual winter minimum temperatures. 

Tips for Planting Bulbs in Colder Areas

Bulbs grow and perform best if planted early enough to get established before the ground freezes. Mulch the bed a month after planting with a 3- to 4-inch layer of hay, straw or shredded leaves. This will allow the soil to stay warm enough for the bulb roots to get established and will protect tender bulbs from freezing injury during winter, especially if the snow cover is sparse.