When to Plant Flower Bulbs
Most flower bulbs are planted dry in Autumn, and some species also when in growth in early Spring.
- Plant spring-flowering and hardy summer-flowering bulbs in autumn
- Tender summer-flowering bulbs in early spring
- Dahlias in late Spring-early Summer
- Autumn-flowering bulbs by late summer
Plant in Autumn
- Early Spring-flowering bulbs (Daffodil, Crocus, Hyacinth), as well as Cyclamen, early in the Autumn planting season, during September
- Tough summer-flowering bulbs (Lilies, Allium, Crocosmia) anytime in September to early November
- Tulips in November is traditional because there is less risk of disease. But disease is not a common issue for home gardeners, so anytime from September to early-December is usually fine.
Plant in Early Spring
- Tender summer-flowering bulbs like Gladioli in early spring
- 'In the green' bulbs (mainly Snowdrops and Bluebells)
Plant in Summer
- Dahlia tubers out into warm soil when frost has passed, from mid-April or May depending where you are in the UK
- Autumn-Winter-flowering bulbs (Nerines, Colchicums) between late spring and summer (June-August).
Always try to plant bulbs as soon as possible after purchase for best results
- If you miss the ideal planting window, plant your bulbs as soon as possible anyway, discarding bad ones
- They may not flower hard in the first year, but should settle in and improve
- Feed with balanced fertilizer when they are in growth to help them along