A bulb is actually a modified stem, an underground storage unit with all the elements required to grow into a plant including leaves, flowers, stem, and sometimes even flower buds. The whole life cycle of the plant, along with energy and nutrients, is stored within this underground structure during the resting stage. Bulbs are living things. They should be treated with care, planted at the appropriate time, and not be allowed to dry out.

Bulbs are classified as either “major” or “minor,” and the difference is pretty much in size. Also, minor bulbs tend to be hardier and more likely to naturalize and spread.

Major bulbs include tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Late blooming tulips and hyacinth will only last a year or two and will need to be replaced. Daffodils are hardy and will multiply and naturalize.

Minor bulbs include gallanthus, crocus, and muscari. These bulbs are smaller in size and produce smaller flowers. They are extremely hardy, will naturalize in an area, and look best planted in mass.

Plant bulbs where they will get full sun in early spring. It's okay to plant bulbs in what is normally a shady area, such as under deciduous trees. As the leaves fill in, flowers fade. Get your bulbs by the end of September (or early October) for best results. They do best with a little extra time to put down roots.

Bulbs prefer rich, well-drained soil. Work in Purple Cow Activated Compost to amend your soil for best results. Make sure to pick up either Bulb Tone or Bone Meal to supplement your soil’s nutrition. Both products include phosphorous which is essential for root development in the fall and big, beautiful blooms in the spring.

Bulb blooms look best in naturally scattered clumps or mass plantings. Plant bulbs in groups throughout a perennial bed. Feel free to mix different colors and varieties together. Plant smaller bulbs over larger ones, in the same hole, for a heavier blooming effect. Be creative and have fun!