Succession Bulb Planting: A Guide to Creating a Continuous Display of Color in Your Garden
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a garden that’s bursting with color all season long, then succession bulb planting is the technique for you. By planting bulbs in layers at different depths and with staggered bloom times, you can create a continuous swath of beautiful flowers that will last from spring to winter.
What is Succession Bulb Planting?
Succession bulb planting is a method of planting bulbs in layers, with the tallest bulbs at the bottom and the shortest bulbs at the top. This creates a staggered blooming effect, so that as one type of flower fades, another begins to bloom.
To achieve the best results, you’ll need to consider the following factors:
- Plant varieties: Choose bulbs that have different bloom times, so that you can have flowers blooming continuously throughout the season.
- Color scheme: Plan your bulb combinations to create a stunning color scheme in your garden.
- Plant size: Plant bulbs of different sizes to create a layered effect.
- Bloom times: Stagger the bloom times of your bulbs so that you have a continuous display of color.
How to Plant Bulbs in Layers
- Prepare the bed: Remove weeds and debris from the bed, and work the soil deeply.
- Incorporate fertilizer: Add a time-release bulb food or bone meal into the soil.
- Plant the largest bulbs: Place the largest bulbs, such as giant alliums, tulips, or daffodils, at the bottom of the planting area.
- Add a layer of soil: Cover the large bulbs with a layer of soil.
- Plant the medium-sized bulbs: Next, plant the medium-sized bulbs, such as Dutch iris, muscari, or smaller tulips.
- Add more soil: Cover the medium-sized bulbs with a layer of soil.
- Plant the small bulbs: Finally, plant the small bulbs, such as crocus, anemone, and other tiny bulbs.
- Finish with soil: Cover the small bulbs with a layer of soil.
- Be patient: Wait for the flowers to bloom and enjoy your beautiful garden!
Bulb Layering Ideas
Here are a few ideas for bulb layering combinations:
- Spring display: Grape hyacinth, daffodils, and tulips
- Summer color: Alliums, lilies, and gladioli
- Autumn beauty: Begonias, colchicums, and magic lilies
- Winter interest: Crocus and snowdrop
Tips for Success
- Plan ahead: Plan your bulb layering ideas in advance to ensure a continuous display of color.
- Choose quality bulbs: Select healthy, firm bulbs for the best results.
- Plant at the right depth: Plant bulbs at the appropriate depth for their size.
- Water regularly: Water your bulbs regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize: Fertilize your bulbs in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth and flowering.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and vibrant garden that will bloom all season long.
