A garden just doesn’t feel complete without onions and bulbs. Whether you’re growing sets for your favorite recipes or planting flower bulbs to brighten up your yard, getting them in the ground during the fall is key. Here’s everything you need to know to get your fall planting right.
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Flower Bulbs
Most bulbs are happiest in a sunny, open spot. Getting plenty of light is the secret to helping them thrive and eventually “naturalize,” which is just a fancy way of saying they’ll spread out and fill your garden beds beautifully over time. When it comes to flowers, feel free to get creative with color combos! Once you’re done planting, they’re pretty much “set it and forget it,” though some varieties like daffodils appreciate a little extra water after they’ve been tucked in.
What to Look for When Buying Bulbs
It’s not just about picking your favorite colors; quality matters too. When you’re at the garden center, look for bulbs with smooth outer skins that feel dry and firm to the touch. If a bulb feels soft or mushy, it’s likely started to rot—definitely leave those behind. Also, don’t be afraid to go big! Extra-large bulbs might cost a few cents more, but they’ll reward you with much more impressive blooms.
How to Plant Your Flower Bulbs
Fall is the time to get those bulbs in the ground so you can enjoy a burst of color come springtime. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Start by loosening up the soil in your planting area.
- Dig a hole about three times as deep as the bulb is tall.
- If your soil is heavy or holds water, add a little drainage layer (like grit or sand) at the bottom.
- Place the bulb in the hole with the roots facing down and the pointy end up.
- Cover it back up with soil and give it a gentle pat down.
- Don’t forget to mark the spot so you don’t accidentally dig them up later!
Planting Onion Sets in the Fall
Did you know you can also plant edible onion sets in the fall? If you get them in the ground between August and October, they’ll overwinter right in the soil and be ready to harvest by May or June. Just remember: these only need to be about an inch deep. Space them about 2 to 4 inches apart, with about a foot of space between your rows. One thing to keep in mind is that these overwintered onions are best eaten fresh—they don’t store as well as spring-planted varieties.
