Buy Spring Flower Blubs in the Fall

If you are looking for a vivid floral array of spring flowering bulbs you'll have to start now with the purchase of good bulbs.

The first big step in planting bulbs is deciding which ones you would like to grow. Major bulbs include tulips, hyacinths and daffodils. Some specialty bulbs you may consider include allium, crocus, galanthus, fritillaria and scillas.

Buy bulbs in the fall. The best purchasing criteria for bulbs is to check their firmness. Buy early to get the best selections available. Another consideration should be the size of the bulbs. The size is directly related to the size and number of flowers. Generally, the bigger the bulb, the bigger the flower.

Small nicks and loose skin don't affect development of the bulb. In fact, loose skin aids in inspecting for diseases, and encourages rooting.

Keep bulbs cool before planting. Store bulbs around 50-65 F .

Optimal planting times are late October to late December in most areas of Alabama. When preparing to plant, remember several things: Good drainage is essential for spring flowering bulbs. If your soil is mostly clay, mix in an organic material such as peatmoss, compost or aged bark. Don't mix more than 50 percent organic material with the soil. If your soil is mostly sand, add an organic material to increase water- and nutrient-holding capacity.

Always be aware of the soil's pH. The pH of the planting area should be in the range of 6-7 for bulbs.

Plant small-sized bulbs (one inch in height) 4 or 5 inches deep and a little deeper in sandy soils. Space small bulbs an inch to 2 inches apart. For large bulbs (2 or more inches in height) them 6 to 8 inches deep. Space larger bulbs 3 to 6 inches apart. Cover the bed with 2 to 3 inches of mulch. If you have a dry fall, water the area appropriately.

Soil test now to find out the correct amount of fertilizer to add. However, bulbs can be grown successfully for a season or two using a slow-release complete fertilizer. This should be incorporated into the root area at planting, at a rate of one rounded tablespoon per square foot.

Wildflowers- Fall is also the best time to plant your wildflower garden. The season allows enough time for perennial root systems to become established for spring bloom, yet the cool temperature (below 60 F) prevent annual seeds from germinating until warmer weather arrives. Ideal planting times for Alabama are late October to mid-November. Fall planting is not recommended for areas where cool grasses, such as annual rye grass and fescues grow, since these grasses aggressively compete with wildflowers for water and nutrients.