Containers of Spring Bulbs: Instant Color for Your Garden

Containers of Spring Bulbs

Missed fall bulb planting? You can still enjoy the fragrance of hyacinths and the brilliance of tulips by creating pots of pre-chilled, potted bulbs in an afternoon. Many nurseries offer this timely solution for gardeners short on time or space.

Get more ideas for beautiful bulb combinations.

Tulips

Pre-chilled, potted tulips are often the only way warm-climate gardeners can grow these spring favorites, since most bulbs require weeks of cold to bloom. Plant some of the best tulip varieties. More top tulip varieties.

Daffodils

One of spring’s classic harbingers, daffodils offer easy container color. See our favorite daffodils.

Tips for Success

• Select plants that have sprouted but are still in tight bud; tall plants transplant poorly.
• Acclimate indoor-grown pots slowly: place in a protected, unheated outdoor area for a few days before transplanting.
• Use a pot with good drainage and quality potting soil.
• Transplant carefully, keeping bulbs close for a lush bouquet effect.
• If bulbs are grouped in one pot, keep them together to avoid disturbing tender roots.
• Water well after planting and move to a sunny spot.

See our favorite spring-blooming bulbs. Learn more about Muscari.

• Select plants that have sprouted but are still in tight bud. Tall plants can be difficult to transplant successfully.
• Slowly acclimate pots of sprouted bulbs that have been kept indoors at the garden center. Set the pots in a protected but unheated area outdoors for a few days before transplanting them.
• Choose a pot with good drainage for transplanting, and use a good-quality potting soil.
• To transplant, carefully tip the bulb and soil out of the pot and replant it in your own container. Plant bulbs closely, so they nearly touch each other, for a lush bouquet effect when they bloom.
• If you purchased a grouping of bulbs that are in one pot, keep the group together. It's best to not separate tender new roots when repotting.
• Water newly planted bulbs well, and move the container to a sunny spot.