Planting Spring Bulbs - How To

I know it's early to be thinking spring. But this is the time of year to get your spring bulbs in the ground (though I'm actually a touch late. I should have probably planted them a few weeks ago. But as my mom always says, they're just plants! It wasn't a huge investment if it doesn't work out). And since we haven't had any hard freezes yet, I think I'm safe.

This is all you need to get started:

1. Medicated Baby Powder (apparently, squirrels don't like medicated baby powder and it discourages them from digging up your bulbs. I use it every year and haven't lost any bulbs to squirrels yet!)

2. Bulbs that I dug up last year. (I know you can leave bulbs in the ground, but they get in the way of my summer plants so I always dig them up. I'm not careful when I store them. I believe they should be stored in sawdust or shredded newspaper so they can dry out and not rot. My method was more "I'm in a hurry, the kids need me and this empty box in the garage will do the job. " So in the box they went! I've had them rot some winters in my shed, but this year I was lucky enough to have them survive!)

3. Pack of fresh bulbs (thank you, Costco!), in case some of my bulbs from last year don't sprout.

Now we are ready to plant! Dig a hole approximately 10 inches in diameter, a few inches deep. Sprinkle the hole with the medicated baby powder.

I got some help from a sweet little 8 year old boy who loves to garden.

Set 10 to 15 bulbs in your hole.

I like to put quite a few bulbs in each hole so that you have a lovely display of blooming tulips clumped together in the spring. Cover up with dirt (you can sprinkle a bit more baby powder on top of bulbs, before covering with dirt just to be extra safe, if you feel like it. Though this isn't necessary).

Dig a new hole 5 inches away from your first hole. Repeat process in your desired garden area. Wait 5 to 6 months, then you can ooh and aah at how your hard work paid off!

Pat yourself on the back for a job well done!

PS - I don't love how a winter garden looks. So bare. But in a few short months (or long months, depending on what kind of winter we have) this garden will be full of new sprouts and color!

Jen