Early Bulbs

One of the most poignant harbingers of spring comes as a delightful surprise to me every year.  It’s not exactly as if I forget about those bulbs I planted one long ago November.  I just don’t think much about them when they’re not blooming.  When they suddenly appear in late winter or early spring, it’s such a joy!  The first little crocuses, Crocus vernus, pave the way, with the promise of tulips, Tulipa spp., and other big guys on the horizon.

Even though they may be available in nurseries fairly early in the fall, wait to plant them until average nighttime temperatures have been down around 50 degrees for a couple of weeks.  Otherwise they may sprout top growth too soon.  It’s a good idea to buy them when they first appear in nurseries or stores where warmer temperatures may dry them out.  Take them home and keep them in a cool, dark place until it’s time to plant.  Water them thoroughly when planting. After that, normal autumn rainfall should provide enough moisture for bulbs to grow strong roots.

After being buried for months with little thought expended on their existence, their flowers emerge so unexpectedly, so cheerfully, they’re like a gift.  They make it so much easier to get through any gloomy days still to come.  Many of the bulbs in my garden and in a variety of containers were planted years ago.  Without an invitation they do their thing and brighten our days – unexpected but most welcome guests.

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