Fall is the time to put the garden to rest for the year and also the time to plant and plan for the following spring. Fall is the ideal time to plant bulbs for color in the late winter and early spring landscape. We are fortunate to have a wide selection of bulbs to choose from for blooms extending from late January to mid-June. Early blooming bulbs peek through the snow, adding bright spots to the winter garden, while late-blooming bulbs reach their peak later, complementing spring blooming groundcovers, perennials and shrubs.

Traditional choices include crocus, hyacinths, daffodils and hybrid tulips. Many varieties to suit the individual color palette are available at local nurseries and through mail order catalogues. Early, middle and late blooming varieties in different heights and sizes are available.

In addition to many crocus species, consider planting snow iris and snowdrops (Galanthus sp.) for flowers in January through March. Similar to crocus, these low growing flowers will peek out through the snow and hint at the coming of a new spring. For flowers in March, April and May, try species tulips (Tulipa sp.) which are available in many colors and average in height from four to eight inches. From May through the summer months, Alliums (Allium sp.) may be used as a focal point or as a complement to perennials in the garden. As with daffodils, and unlike tulips and crocus, they offer the added benefit of being less favored by deer and rodents.

While the initial investment may seem high, keep in mind that hardy perennial bulbs flower year after year and frequently multiply. Some varieties may also be used to naturalize large spaces. When planting, the ideal depth is approximately two to three times the widest portion of the bulb. As our soils are rich in minerals, fertilization needs are minimal. While most bulbs need moisture during their growth phase, many can tolerate dry conditions during their dormant period. Species tulips prefer hot, dry areas whereas daffodils prefer occasional moisture during dormancy. To ensure ongoing vigor, allow the spent foliage to remain on the plant until yellow. Early blooming perennials planted with spring blooming bulbs will minimize the unsightliness of the wilting foliage and enhance the garden.

For more information on spring-blooming bulbs, see CSU Extension Fact Sheet #7.410 “Fall-planted Bulbs and Corms” . Also, Planttalk Colorado has information on bulbs. Visit planttalk.org and search for topics 1012 and 1013.

The authors have received training through Colorado State University Cooperative Extension's Master Gardener program and is a Master Gardener volunteer for Larimer County.

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This page updated:  October 4, 2007