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Planting Bulbs for Summer Bloom Plant these beauties in spring to brighten your summer garden. From "Dirt On Gardening" episode DDOG-110

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	Figure A
	Figure B

When and Where to Plant Bulbs

• To get those summer flowers, plant your flower bulbs in late spring to early summer.
  
• In terms of location, groups of bulbs make a much nicer show than individual "soldiers marching single file."
  
• Most bulb flowers require full sun to light shade.
  
• Create greater color impact in the garden by planting clusters of same-color flowers together in blocks or "bouquets." Visually, you get more "bang for the buck."

How to Plant Bulbs: Depth and Spacing

As a general rule of thumb, plant bulbs three times as deep as they are high and the same distance apart. There are exceptions for some species, so it's always best to consult planting guide.Larger bulbs should be planted three to six inches apart; smaller bulbs one to two inches apart. Here are the basic steps for planting bulbs:

• Use a bulb planter or small shovel to dig your holes (figure A).

• Place bulb in hole with the tip pointed u. (figure B).
  

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• Plant bulbs three times as deep as they are high (figures C and D), and space them apart equally.

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

  Figure E

• Cover with loose soil (figure E).

Bulbs and Soil

Bulbs love soil that will hold some water, but not too much water. Clay soils will typically kill the flower bulbs. Sandy soils are equally deadly as they drain water away too quickly. The ideal soil will hold its shape when squeezed into a ball but will break apart when gently poked with your finger.

Post-Planting Care

Bulbs like their soil kept moist while they are actively growing and reasonably dry while they are dormant. Begin watering when green shoots appear and stop when foliage starts to yellow after flowering. Follow the planting guidelines for the flower variety for feeding and fertilizing.

Problems and Troubleshooting

Some reasons for poor flowering the first year could be the following:

• bulbs were planted too shallow;
  
• planted too late in the season;
  
• bulbs selected were not hardy for the region;
  
• bulbs were disturbed by animals--moles, squirrels, chipmunks, mice etc.;
  
• bulbs rotted.

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