Food-Gardening Lessons From A Wartime Victory Garden

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Tag: Bulb

When is the Best Time to Plant Spring Bulbs?

“When is the best time to plant spring bulbs?” Question from Donna of Smithfield, Pennsylvania

Answer: Fall is the best time to plant bulbs–starting in late September and ending in late November. This is the ideal window, but I have even planted bulbs in December when the soil could be worked, and the flowers appeared as expected in spring. Just don’t wait until the soil surface freezes over.

For best growth, amend your planting soil with compost and bonemeal. Both products will ensure that your bulbs will bloom and grow well. It is also essential to plant different bulbs at the correct recommended depths. If you plant bulbs too deeply or shallowly, they will not perform as well. Small bulbs may not even pop up at all if planted too deeply. Just follow the package instructions.

I hope that this information helps!

Happy bulb planting!

Jessie Keith

Black Gold Horticulturist

Can You Identify This Unusual Bulb for Me?

“I’ve tried and tried to find the ID of these beautiful flowers. Any help would be appreciated.”  Question from Pamela of Conroe, Texas

Answer: This beautiful, unique bulb is Mediterranean Bells Allium (Nectaroscordum siculum (aka. Allium siculum)). It is native to Southwest Europe and Turkey where it grows in sun-dotted woods, though it also grows beautifully in full sun. It makes an excellent cut flower, so take advantage of the long stems. Its clusters of maroon and green bell-shaped flowers bloom in late spring. I have found that they look good interplanted with columbine, Amsonia, and oriental poppies. If you plan to plant more, be sure to fortify the soil with Black Gold Garden Soil and bonemeal for bulbs.

Happy Gardening!

Jessie Keith

Black Gold Horticulturist