Planting Bulbs in Containers

1. Find the Right Home for Your Bulbs

Pots and containers come in so many colors, shapes, and sizes, it's hard to decide which ones to choose. If you want to put bulb containers on your patio or deck, make sure that they're at least 16 inches across for impressive color. Containers placed elsewhere should be at least 8 inches across.

2. Deciding How Deep

How deep your containers should be depends on the size and type of bulb you want to plant. Your container should allow for ample room for root systems to grow. You'll want to plant your bulbs in your container as deeply as you would in the ground. Ask at your garden center which bulbs have deeper roots and what size containers to use.

3. Choosing Materials

When you choose your containers, remember the weather. Frost can damage terra-cotta containers, but usually won't harm plastic ones. Also, don't forget to choose containers with drainage holes.

4. Planting the Bulbs

Plant your bulbs in the fall. Start by adding a layer of Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix to your container. Then plant a layer of larger bulbs, like tulips or daffodils. Cover them with another layer of potting mix. Then you can add a layer of smaller bulbs, like crocus. Then add another layer of potting mix, leaving a 1 inch gap at the top of the pot. Place your bulbs in a cold spot - a porch, patio, garage, or shed - for the winter.

5. Watering Your Bulbs

Water thoroughly after you plant the bulbs. Then, check the soil for moisture every week or so. Make sure the soil stays moist, but not wet, or your bulbs will rot. In several months, when the weather starts to warm, your bulbs will start to emerge, and soon, you'll have beautiful blooms in your containers with hardly any effort.