When To Plant Flower Bulbs

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