FAQ's: Planting Spring Bulbs

Updated: Mar 30, 2023

Spring bulbs have just arrived at the Mustard Seed Market! Our friends at Netherland Bulb Company have a few good tips and tricks in planting spring bulbs. Check out these commonly asked questions below.

What are spring bulbs?

Spring planting bulbs are bulbs that should be planted in the spring and bloom in the summer. The number of spring bulbs is quite extensive, but the most popular varieties include gladiolus, begonias, dahlias, lilies, freesia, anemone, tigridia, acidanthera, montbretia, sparaxis, iris, brodea, liatris, and callas.

When should I plant my spring bulbs?

Spring planted/summer flowering bulbs and tubers can be planted in the spring when you are certain the ground will no longer freeze in your area.

How deep should I plant my spring bulbs?

The rule of thumb is to plant the bulb or tuber about 5 inches deep. Exceptions include dahlias and begonias which should be planted just beneath the surface.

How far apart should I plant my spring bulbs?

For smaller varieties, 4 inches is a good interval, 5 inches apart for gladiolus and 10 inches for begonias. Lilies should be about 12 inches apart and dahlias as much as 16 inches apart. For uninterrupted color, they can be planted even closer together.

What do I do after my spring planting bulbs have bloomed?

Once your bulbs have finished blooming, they can often be used again the following year. With the exception of lilies, the bulbs have to be taken out of the ground if it freezes in your area during the winter. If it does freeze in your area, let the leaves die down naturally, then dig up the bulbs and store in a cool dry place and replant the following spring.

What bulbs do you have at the Mustard Seed Market?

As of March 29th, our current stock includes the following:

- Rattlesnake Plantains

- Jack in the Pulpits

- Mammoth Elephant Ears

- Seed Potatoes

- Dutch Onions

- Tiger Lilies

- Gladiolus

- Montbretia

- Decorative Dahlias

- Dinner Plate Dahlias