There are so many varieties of spring flowering bulbs that the phrase, "something for everyone" certainly applies. It is always interesting to ask about favorites. We asked 4 of our annuals and perennials people to tell us something about 1 or 2 of their favorites.
I like all Alliums. The tall, larger purple balls of flowers always stand out while my perennials are still growing. In the fall I always spray paint the flower heads and use them in my winter pots.
Scilla Siberica are very nice mounding plants with deep purple hanging bell shaped flowers. Nice for a border.
My Pride of Kalamazoo tulips were so tall and deep red color! They lasted a long time.
Laura
Fosteriana or "Emperor" tulips are a very reliable classic tulip that blooms early in spring. Even in a shady nook (that received sun in the mornings) that I didn't fertilize as one is supposed to these bulbs performed superbly every single year without fail. They open up larger and larger each day into a perfect bowl shape. The tried and true colors of this variety are brilliant yellows and red. (12-18" tall - April)
Another bulb I discovered is the tiny Puschkinia a.k.a. striped squill. These little beauties sprinkled themselves in my garden and spread into the lawn eventually where they peeked out of the grass. If you like fairy gardens, I can't imagine a better fit for creating some early spring magic. Bonus? Yes! They smell great! Just like grape soda! (4-6" tall - April)
Selena
What can be more uplifting after a long winter than to see the yellow, white and blue flowers of the crocus?! These 3 to 6 inch flowers are a wonder to see and they last quite a long time in cool temperatures of spring.
A large group of bulbs that I like are the daffodils or narcissus. These cheerful blossoms come out in March into May in many sizes and colors of flowers. Wedel's has over 50 varieties to choose from!
Roger
Oxalis Adenophylla - I love the blue/green clumped foliage. The bright pink flowers suddenly spear to top. It isn't bothered by anything. Want to try something unique? Then this is the plant!
Tangerine Beauty species tulip - This tulip is amazing with its vibrant two-tone coloration. Long blooming with great hardiness. Don't be fooled. It's not your typical small species tulip. It has the durability of species and the great eye-catching size of a triumph tulip.
Dawn
Four people and four very different responses. And we asked for only 1 or 2 favorites. Considering the many different types of spring flowering bulbs available to you at Wedel's you can see your options are nearly endless. Don't be intimidated if you are new to planting spring flowering bulbs. Really, nothing could be easier. We have all the information you need such as what to do to prepare to plant, when to plant, where to plant, planting depth, planting distance, soil type and drainage, watering etc.
Did you know you can plant bulbs in containers? How about planting them in layers (the sandwich or lasagna system)? We'll tell you how to easily maintain your bulbs so you can enjoy them for years to come, too. If you've ever just thought about giving bulbs a try, come by the garden center. You'll have something to look forward to all winter and you will certainly be thrilled next spring!
The rye will begin growing again early in the spring and the plants can get to be quite tall. Mow it just as you would your lawn or use a string trimmer to cut the length down. If you don't mow or cut the rye you will have difficulty tilling it into the soil; the long plant stems will clog your tiller. You can leave the mowed clippings on the plot but if they make it too difficult to till, simply rake them as you might rake your lawn after mowing. Plan to mow and till right before you plant your garden plants.
