As the vibrant colors of summer fade and the crisp air of fall settles in, it’s the perfect time to think ahead to spring blooms. Planting bulbs in the fall is a simple yet rewarding way to ensure your garden bursts with color and life as the warmer months return.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, planting, and caring for fall bulbs. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, our tips and tricks will help you create a stunning spring display that will bring joy to your outdoor space. Let’s dig in and get those bulbs in the ground!

What are fall bulbs?

Bulbs for fall planting are types of plants that should be placed in the soil during the fall season, before the ground freezes. Examples include tulips, daffodils, narcissus, hyacinths, allium and crocus. These bulbs need a cold period to develop roots and will typically bloom in the spring, depending on the light and temperature conditions. View our fall bulb selection.

When is the best time to plant fall bulbs? 

Fall bulbs should be planted planted before the ground freezes and the soil is workable, generally in NY we plant around Thanksgiving. It's ideal to wait until outdoor temperatures consistently fall below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If a hard frost occurs shortly after planting, apply mulch to your beds and remove it in the spring. Light morning frosts won't harm the bulbs.

What should you consider when purchasing fall planting bulbs?

When buying fall planting bulbs, choose ones that feel firm. Bulbs that are soft or mushy likely haven't been stored properly and may rot, preventing them from blooming. It’s also important to understand bulb sizes. While larger bulbs aren't always better, they do offer different benefits. For instance, premium tulip bulbs typically have a circumference of 12 centimeters or more. If you want to create a striking display of 10 tulips, opt for these top-size bulbs. Conversely, if you're planting a larger area for cut flowers or a vibrant spring display, smaller bulbs with a minimum circumference of 10 centimeters will work well. Generally, larger bulbs tend to produce more blooms and larger flowers, and they can grow even bigger in the ground after flowering.

How does bulb sizing work, and what should I look for?

Bulbs are often sourced from Holland, and their sizes are typically indicated in centimeters, marked with "cm" to denote circumference. To measure a bulb, wrap a tape measure around its widest part and note the circumference. (For reference, there are 2.54 centimeters in an inch.) 

When selecting bulbs, look for those that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots, as this indicates good quality.

What should I do if I forgot to plant my bulbs this fall?

Fall bulbs should ideally be planted within six months of purchase, as they are dormant but still living and require proper water and soil conditions. If they remain unplanted for too long, they may lose hydration and perish. If the ground is frozen, try to wait for a thaw and plant them a bit deeper than usual. 

If that's not possible, consider planting your bulbs in pots and placing them in a cool, dark location, watering them sparingly throughout winter. Once the ground thaws in spring, you can move the pots outdoors or into the ground. As a last option, you can plant them in the spring, but don’t expect many blooms that season. Using Bulb Tone can help improve results for the following spring.

What should I do if my bulbs are sprouting before spring?

If your bulbs are coming up early due to unseasonably warm weather, there's not much to worry about. This early growth indicates that your bulbs have established a strong root system. The good news is you won’t have to deal with snow shoveling! Most bulbs are quite resilient and should still bloom as expected in the spring.

Why shouldn't I plant fall bulbs in the spring?

Bulbs need at least six weeks of cold temperatures to develop roots properly. If you plant them in the spring, they won't have enough time to establish roots before the growing season begins. Additionally, if the bulbs have been dormant for more than nine months, their performance can be negatively affected.

What type of fertilizer should I use?

While fertilizer isn’t strictly necessary, using a small amount of Bulb Tone or bone meal can enhance performance. More importantly, ensure that the pH level of your soil is appropriate for optimal growth.

What should I do after my fall planting bulbs have bloomed in the spring?

Allow the leaves to die back naturally; avoid cutting them off or mowing over them. After blooming, it's essential to let the bulbs rest, as they will be gathering nutrients from the soil to prepare for blooming again next year.

Want to get started on fall bulb planting? Shop our selection online or stop by one of our two Brooklyn garden center locations!