How to Grow Bulbs in Containers

Growing bulbs in containers is a fantastic solution for gardeners with limited spaces, or those wanting to decorate decks, patios, or entryways with spring-blooming bulbs' colors and fragrances.

Getting Started

Easy to grow virtually any bulb in containers; mix different types too. Like growing in ground. Start with a container with drainage holes; plant bulbs in fall. Most spring-blooming bulbs prefer well-drained soil and rot if feet too wet too long.

If leaving bulbs outdoors all winter, select a large container holding enough soil to insulate bulbs. In coldest regions, container ≥24 inches diameter.

Discover beautiful bulbs for your region in Plant Encyclopedia.

Fill with high-quality potting mix (not garden soil). Plant bulbs as deep as in ground: 6-7 inches for tulips/daffodils, 4-5 inches for crocus/Siberian squill. Water well after planting.

If container too small for winter outdoors, or material like terra-cotta needs protection, keep planted bulbs somewhere cold (garage/shed). Don't bring indoors; basements too warm for proper development.

Once temperatures warm in spring, augment containers with cool-season annuals: lettuce, Swiss chard, pansy, viola, nemesia, African daisy.

Or pack more punch by mixing bulb types. Plant bigger bulbs (tulips, daffodils) deeper. Cover with soil, then plant smaller bulbs (crocus, grape hyacinth, snowdrops) directly above.

Get design ideas for containers of spring bulbs.