We got a chance to clean up our yard last weekend. Picked up some brush and burnt it before the burning season ends. While raking some leftover dry leaves from the fall I found sprouting bulbs getting ready to show off their beauty in just few weeks.
Bulbs are excellent plants for beginners because you are almost always assured that they will sprout the first year. After the first year, however, the continued success of your bulbs will be dependent on the care and nutrients the plant receives after it blooms.
To insure that you are not planting new bulbs every year,take these steps to correctly plant and care for bulbs.
Although soil requirements may vary between types of bulbs, most bulbs prefer soil that drains well but still retains some moisture. Soil that is too moist could actually rot your bulb, but soil that retains no moisture will undoubtedly inhibit the growth of your bulb. If your soil is unsuitable, add organic material to it. For clay soils that tend to retain to much water, organic matter will allow it to drain. Sandy soils with organic material added will retain more moisture.
When planting a bulb be sure to make a hole the appropriate depth and shape. A common rule of thumb used by many gardeners is to dig a hole that is three times as deep as the diameter of the bulb. Your hole should never be cone shaped, instead strive for a hole that looks like a cylinder. Add a small amount of bone meal to the hole before planting. This allows a bulb to quickly replenish after blooming.
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