Gardening with Fall Bulbs: Color Until the First Snow

Autumn doesn’t mean putting away garden tools. Fall is when many popular bulbs bloom, providing color almost until the first snow. Cooler weather makes gardening pleasant.

Why Fall Bulbs Are a Great Investment

Bulbs remain in ground, ready to emerge when conditions are right—even when dormant, they’re preparing for next season.

Planting Tips

• Location: Match each bulb’s specific needs. Soil is critical: well-drained to prevent rot.
• Bed Prep: Many excavate 12–15 inches, add aged manure/compost, space bulbs, cover with original soil or quality compost/potting mix. Time-consuming but effective.
• Bulb Planter: Faster for soft soil; twist to depth, drop bulb. Less effective in rocky soil.

Popular Fall Bulbs

• Tulips, daffodils, crocus (classics)
• Hyacinths, iris, alliums
• Chionodoxa: early small blooms enlarge with maturity; deer-resistant.

Fall bulbs keep your garden vibrant deep into the season.