Bulbs are a fascinating plant group; they’re transportable, dramatic and fill us with anticipation for their delightful displays. Sophie clears up a few myths about bulbs so you can plant these fuss-free treasures in the ground this autumn. Subscribe 🔔 ab.co/GA-subscribe
What is a bulb?
We often think of bulbs for their flowers, but the most famous bulb is the common kitchen onion. Cut in half, you can see everything needed for the plant’s life cycle; leaves, stems, roots, buds and flowers are all in one compact package.
These layers are modified leaves that surround a central bud shoot that holds the immature flowers. These grow from a flattened stem called a basal plate, and below that are the roots. Some bulbs have a paper-like covering, called a tunic, which protects the bulb from the environment, insects and animals.
Not all underground plants are bulbs. Freesias and crocus have bulb-like structures which are modified stems called corms. Bearded iris, cyclamen and dahlia also have bulb-like structures with modified roots called tubers. In practice, they behave the same way, but they are botanically different.
Planting
It can take several years for bulb seeds to mature enough to flower, so for the best results plant mature bulbs and plant lots of them. Different types will grow in full sun or part shade so read the label for their requirements. As a general rule, bulbs need to be planted root side down in well-drained soil and planted twice as deep as they are wide. If they’re planted too deep, they’ll be exhausted by the time they reach the surface. Give them a good drink to settle in and for the first couple of weeks to stimulate the roots.
Some say bulbs don’t need to be watered while they’re dormant. While it’s true they won’t be actively drinking up water until they break their dormancy, some moisture in the soil is important. Dry soil will wick moisture out of the bulb, but soil too wet will risk rot. Sophie times planting to just before rains but adjust according to your climate. If you’re worried you might forget where you buried your treasure, you can mark the spot with colourful stakes or an ornament as a visual reminder.
Care
Continue to water and feed your bulbs weekly with potassium-rich liquid fertiliser and enjoy the flowering season! After flowering, these clever little creatures start storing up sugars and producing baby bulblets in preparation for next season's blooms. Don’t be tempted to remove yellowing foliage until it has completely withered down, as the bulb is drawing energy from the foliage to produce flowers next year. You can help this process by giving them soluble fertilizer as the leaves are dying down.
Some gardeners might be hesitant to grow bulbs thinking that all bulbs need to be lifted over winter. In many climates, hardy varieties such as jonquils, snowflakes and bluebells can stay in the ground year after year, and many varieties are adapted to survive through frosts. Varieties that need winter chilling such as tulips will need to be stored over winter in a crisper or fridge in warmer climates. Sophie suggests planting special treasures inside an old colander or open basket to make them easier to find and lift.
Bulbs are a hidden surprise, easy to grow and they’re certainly worth the wait!
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