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Fall Bulb Planting Guide: Tulips, Daffodils & Crocus

Posted on by sunrise-sixteen
03
Oct

Step-by-step tips for a colorful spring  

Fall is the season to think ahead to spring! By planting bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocus now, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant display when winter gives way to warmer days. At Sixteen Acres Garden Center, we make bulb planting easy with quality bulbs, tools, and advice tailored to our local Zone 6 climate.

Step-by-Step: How to Plant Fall Bulbs

  1. Pick the right time
    In Springfield, MA, plant bulbs between late September and early November before the ground freezes.

  2. Prepare your soil
    Loosen soil 8–10 inches deep and mix in compost or bulb fertilizer for healthy root development.

  3. Plant at proper depth

    • Tulips: 6–8 inches

    • Daffodils: 6 inches

    • Crocus: 3–4 inches
      (Rule of thumb: plant three times the bulb’s height.)

  4. Position bulbs correctly
    Place the pointy end up. If unsure, plant sideways — bulbs will find their way.

  5. Space bulbs apart

    • Tulips: 4–6 inches

    • Daffodils: 4–6 inches

    • Crocus: 3 inches

  6. Backfill, water, and mulch
    Cover with soil, water thoroughly, and add 2–3 inches of mulch to protect against frost and weeds.

Why Plant Bulbs in Fall?

  • Effort now, reward later: A weekend of planting leads to weeks of spring color.

  • Naturalizing beauty: Daffodils and crocus return and multiply year after year.

  • Low-maintenance gardening: Once planted, bulbs need minimal care.

Visit Sixteen Acres Garden Center

🌻 1359 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, MA 01119
🕗 Open Daily: 8am – 5pm

We carry tulips, daffodils, crocus, soil amendments, bulb fertilizer, and everything you need to plant for spring success.

Stay Connected With Our App

📲 Download the Sixteen Acres Garden Center app here:
👉 https://16acresgardencenter.com/16-acres-app/

With the app you can:

  • Get seasonal planting reminders

  • Access exclusive promotions

  • Shop and connect with us year-round

FAQ: Fall Bulb Planting

Q: Can I plant bulbs after the first frost?
A: Yes, as long as the ground isn’t frozen solid. Planting late is still better than not planting at all.

Q: Do bulbs need fertilizer?
A: Yes. Mix in bone meal or a bulb-specific fertilizer during planting to boost root strength.

Q: Will bulbs bloom every year?
A: Daffodils and crocus naturalize and return annually. Tulips may fade after a few years but can be replanted for best results.

Q: How do I stop squirrels from digging up bulbs?
A: Cover beds with chicken wire or plant daffodils alongside tulips since squirrels avoid them.

Quick Takeaway

Plant bulbs now before the ground freezes, follow the simple depth and spacing guide, and enjoy brilliant tulips, cheerful daffodils, and early-blooming crocus next spring.

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