If you’re looking for a way to light up your yard next spring, I’ve got the perfect answer.  Plant spring bulbs!   

Spring flowering bulbs are planted in the fall, because they need a period of cold before they will bloom.  Planting in October and November gives them plenty of time to root in before winter, and of course, winter provides the cold temperatures.  And with spring flowering bulbs, there are so many to choose from!   

Daffodils – great spring show of colors that fortunately deer will leave alone.
Tulips – again available in so many colors.
Crocus- an early spring favorite, along with their early side kick Grape Hyacinths. Regular Hyacinths with their wonderful flowers full of fragrances that say spring has officially arrived,
Giant Alliums with their softball sized purple flowers. 
Fritillaria – the bulbs may smell but the flower is truly a spectacular show. And you’ll find Snowdrops, their cousins Snowflakes, and a whole lot more in spring bulbs!   

Now here are a few tips when it comes to successful spring bulb planting: 

Take a moment and read the bulb labels.  Not all bloom at the same time, so by proper planning, you’ll be able to extend your spring flowering from late winter through late spring.   And once you’ve decided on the bulbs you’d like, make sure the actual bulbs you chose are firm, not soft, and look for the largest bulbs.  Make sure you mark the bags so you remember which bulbs are which! 

You may also find Iris and Lycoris (commonly known as ‘Naked Ladies’) being sold along with the spring flowering bulbs.  Go ahead and plant these right away.  But for the rest of the spring flowering bulbs, buy them now for a great selection to chose from, but wait until temperatures cool down - October and thru mid November - before you plant.