Planting Fall Bulbs

There are several misconceptions about bulbs. One is that they are a mutant plant version and difficult to take care of. The other misconception exists in the desert community that you can't grow bulbs in the desert. Both are false, bulbs are a great and simple way to add color to flower gardens. There are several varieties that do well in the Sonoran Desert. Flower bulbs are planted in the fall and bloom in the spring. Many bulbs also have babies to add to other parts of your garden, create mass plantings, or give as gifts to friends and family. Some of the recommended bulbs for our desert gardens are Paperwhites, Amaryllis, Hyacinths, Freesia, and the Bearded Iris.

How to Plant Bulbs

Soil preparation is critical to the success of bulbs. Bulbs like soil that drains well and full of microbiotic activiity. Our soils are primarily clay, so adding amendments such as compost, pumus, vermiculite, bone meal, and phosphate will give the soil plenty of nitrogen, and drainage needed for a good production of blooms in the spring. The bulb packages have instructions of planting procedures that suggest a planting depth for each bulb. We have unique weather situations, and so it is important to plant bulbs about ½ of the recommended depth suggested. If bulbs are at the recommended depth it would delay blooming and need to be closer to the surface to have the same performance as other areas of the country. Remember to place the bulb's pointed tip up, before covering with medium. After the bulbs flower let the stems yellow and completely die back before trimming. They produce most of their energy during blooming, and their stores from the year before are spent. They continue to manufacture food and nutrients to replenish those stores for the following year. If the leaves are green then they are still replenishing and shouldn't be snipped away. Try interplanting other flowers to hide the yellow and dying parts of the plant, to guarantee a good showing the following spring.

Paperwhites

Paperwhites are dainty white blooms that are stark white, and a nice contrast with the deep green stem. They are not only wonderful for spring gardens, but a lovely indoor plant.

Amaryllis

These are my favorites and a splendid performer. They have ruffle like petals and are perfect for a bright spot in the spring. I especially enjoy the deep red amaryllis's and candy cane flowers the Christmas season forced indoors for seasonal ambiance.

Hyacinth

Hyacinths are interesting plants that have a cone like appearance with tiny flowers clustered together. They have an attractive scent, and are a treat for guests when placed by a front door, or pathway. They are a common flower/plant, available for purchase in the spring.

Freesia

These are available in a wide variety of colors, and have the whole package. They are the "elegant" bulb flower with a dainty, fan like leaf, with a large waxy type flower with a heavenly scent. They will be an effective producer year after year.

Bearded Iris

This is the most unique bulb flower in my opinion. They are named bearded for a reason (although there are beardless varieties), having a lip like petal similar to a beard. There are interesting patterns and colors to choose from. Bearded Iris's are striking, and will certainly catch the attention of any admirer.

Taking an hour or two plop these in the garden will bring you years of enjoyment. This variety of flowers prove the old adage of "not choosing a book by it's cover". While the bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers are certainly unattractive, the flowers they bring forth are splendid and well worth the little effort put into planting them.