Bulbs

Heirloom bulb – A historic, old variety that has been grown and passed down for decades, valued for its longevity, reliability, and traditional charm.

Annual bulb – A bulb that completes its lifecycle in one growing season. Does not naturally re-emerge the following year, annual bulbs need to be replanted each spring to provide the same vibrant display. 

Perennial bulb – A bulb that survives and blooms year after year without needing to be replanted.

Naturalizing bulb – A bulb that not only returns each year but also multiplies and spreads over time, creating larger clumps or drifts.

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Expected Spring Bloom Times for North Texas:

Early Season Flowering – February-early March
Mid Season Flowering – March
Late Season Flowering – Early April

How to Plant Bulbs in North Texas

• Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of full sun when the bulb foliage is actively growing. Bulbs that remain in the ground every year need 8–10 hours of full sun daily to ensure the best blooms.
• Avoiding planting in rows. Bulbs look more natural in clumps or drifts.
  
• Plant bulbs 5-6″ deep. Place the bulb with the pointed end facing up, cover with soil and firmly tamp down. Some bulbs don’t have an obvious top or bottom. Don’t worry—they will naturally right themselves once planted.
• Make sure your site has good drainage. Most bulbs will rot in the ground in wet locations or heavy clay soils. To be sure they have good drainage, amend with compost, humus or shredded bark, 2 to 4 inches deep.
• Spring and fall blooming bulbs do not require fertilizer. Normal rainfall usually provides enough water for bulbs.
• As a rule, buy and plant spring and fall flowering bulbs in the fall. Plant late October-December* once soil temperatures cool below 55°F
• After flowering allow the foliage to die back naturally to allow energy to return to the bulb. Most spring-flowering bulbs go dormant over the summer after their spring blooming period. They then resume growth and flowering in the following spring.
• Hyacinth bulbs can cause skin irritation when handled. Gloves are recommended.
• *Hyacinth and Tulips- Keep bulbs chilled at 40–45°F (in a fridge, not near fruit or vegetables) until planting. Store bulbs in a mesh or paper bag. Plant mid- to late-December, once the nighttime temperatures have consistently been below 50°F for several weeks. Note: Because Texas winters are mild, hyacinth and tulip bulbs typically require a pre-chilling period of 6-10 weeks to ensure proper blooming.