Have you been looking for the perfect bulbs to add to your fall garden? We’re excited to announce that we are now carrying bulbs at Luis Nursery!! We have an assortment of unique tulip varieties including Parrot Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, Crocus, Miscari and Snowdrop.

After you stop by and pick up those bulbs, we want to make sure that you have the most success possible during the planting and growing process.

Here are 5 tips to success:

1. Buy Bulbs Now – Many nurseries and stores sell their bulbs out by late summer in order to prepare for holiday displays. You should select bulbs that are firm and plump and are free of any rot or mold. If you had to buy bulbs early, take care to store them properly. You can leave that in the bag you bought them in and then store them in a paper bag in fridge. If you don’t want to worry about storing, come on over and buy fresh bulbs now!
2. Choose the Ideal Spot – When selecting where to plant your bulbs you’ll want to pay attention to how much sunlight they will be getting. Your bulbs will need at least 6 hours of sunlight. If there are trees around, you’ll want those early bloomers to have a spot that soaks up the sun before the trees get their spring leaves. Don’t neglect your soil quality as well. When planning your planting soil make sure that it’s well-drained, and rich in organic matter or compost.
3. Prepare your Soil – Take the time to prepare your soil. Make the effort to remove any weeds and loosen the soil. This would be the perfect time to add that compost or other nutrients to your soil. You can also add sand for help with drainage. When you’re ready to plant you should dig your hole 3 times as deep as your bulb is tall and place it in the hole with the pointy part up.
4. Plant at the Ideal Time – Bulbs should be planted when the nightly temperature is reaching 40 to 50 degrees, but six weeks before the first freeze. Spring bulbs need a chilly period to bloom. In the San Joaquin Valley, we don’t generally get a freeze, so you could take the time to chill your bulbs in the fridge for six to 10 weeks. Just don’t put them near fruits or the gasses will make the bulbs go bad.
5. Put the Fertilizer Away – Your bulbs are pretty hands off after they are in the ground. They won’t need any fertilizer until spring when you start to see their first shoots. When their shoots appear, this is a good indicator that they are ready for some nutrients. Don’t fertilize them when they start to flower, or you’ll inhibit their growth. You have to find that fertilizer “sweet spot.”

If you haven’t tried planting bulbs, there’s always a first time! Come on over and check out our selection and we can help you answer any questions.