Tired of a drab winter landscape? Yearning for a burst of color after the cold? You’re in the right place! Planting fall bulbs is the secret to unlocking a breathtaking spring garden. Forget the winter blues and imagine your yard exploding with vibrant blooms, all thanks to a little planning now.
We’ve curated a list of the best fall bulbs to plant, perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. From classic daffodils to unique alliums, we’ve got something to brighten every corner of your outdoor space. Get ready to transform your garden into a floral paradise with minimal effort. This guide will provide all the information you need to make the best choices for your garden.
The 10 Fall Bulbs to Plant Reviewed
1. Mixed Hyacinth Bulbs
We’ve planted numerous mixed hyacinth bulbs over the years, and the joy they bring is undeniable. The fragrance alone is worth the effort, a sweet, intoxicating perfume that fills the air as soon as the blooms open. You’ll be delighted by the variety of colors that emerge, a kaleidoscope of pinks, purples, blues, and whites, creating a vibrant display in your garden.
The key to success with hyacinths is well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine. They are relatively low-maintenance once planted in the fall. We always recommend soaking the bulbs for a few hours before planting to give them a head start. Make sure to space them about 6 inches apart and bury them about 4-6 inches deep.
One of the best things about hyacinths is their versatility. They look stunning in beds, borders, and even containers. We’ve used them to create a fragrant pathway leading to a front door, and the effect was simply magical. They also make excellent cut flowers, bringing the beauty and fragrance indoors.
For those of you who appreciate a sensory experience in your garden, hyacinths are a must-have. You’ll love the way they look and smell. We suggest planting them in clusters for maximum impact.
Pros
- Incredibly fragrant.
- Wide variety of colors.
- Easy to grow.
- Versatile for various garden settings.
Cons
- Can be susceptible to pests if soil is not well-drained.
2. Mixed Bulbs
Ixia Venus, also known as the Corn Lily, is a truly unique addition to any garden. The star-shaped flowers come in vibrant colors and dance gracefully in the breeze. These fall bulbs to plant will add a touch of whimsy and elegance to your spring display. We found that the blooms open in sequence, providing a long-lasting show.
Planting Ixia is a straightforward process. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, much like many other bulbs. We recommend planting them in drifts or groups for the best visual impact. Make sure to water them regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells.
Ixia is particularly well-suited for cottage gardens and informal settings. They naturalize well in warmer climates, meaning they’ll come back year after year. They also make excellent cut flowers, with their delicate stems and colorful blooms adding a touch of elegance to any bouquet.
This is a great option for gardeners who want something different. We’ve used them in rock gardens and amongst ornamental grasses with fantastic results. They are a great way to add height and interest to your spring garden.
Pros
- Unique star-shaped flowers.
- Long-lasting blooms.
- Easy to grow.
- Ideal for cottage gardens.
Cons
- May require staking in windy areas.
3. Ixia Venus Bulbs
For those new to gardening, or those who simply want a hassle-free way to create a stunning spring display, a Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden is the perfect solution. This usually includes a curated selection of various bulb types, ensuring a diverse and colorful show. You don’t have to worry about selecting individual varieties; someone has already done the work for you.
You’ll get a mix of different bloom times and heights, creating layers of color and texture in your garden. This is a great way to get started with fall bulbs to plant without having to be an expert. The included instructions are usually very clear, making planting a breeze.
This is specifically for those who want a ready-made garden. Imagine planting everything in the fall and then waking up to a gorgeous spring flower show. You’ll have tulips, daffodils, and maybe even some alliums, all blooming at different times, extending the flowering season and maximizing visual impact.
Real-life usage: This past fall, we helped a beginner gardener plant one of these kits. The look on their face when the flowers started blooming was priceless. They were so proud of their accomplishment, and the garden looked absolutely spectacular. It’s a great way to inspire a love of gardening.
Pros
- Easy and convenient.
- Diverse selection of bulbs.
- Extended bloom time.
- Great for beginners.
Cons
- May not include specific varieties you prefer.
4. Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden
Pink daffodils bring a unique charm to the daffodil family. Their delicate pink petals offer a softer, more romantic feel to the spring garden. We’ve planted these in several locations, and the effect is always stunning, adding a touch of elegance to the typical yellow and white daffodil displays.
These are just as easy to grow as their yellow cousins. Plant them in the fall in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. They prefer to be planted deep, about 6 inches down, and spaced a few inches apart. They will come back year after year, providing a reliable burst of color.
Pink daffodils are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your borders or naturalizing in a meadow. They look particularly lovely when planted with other spring-blooming flowers like tulips or hyacinths. You can also plant them in containers for a more controlled display.
Who is this specifically for? This is for the gardener who wants something different than the common daffodil. You’ll love the subtle beauty and the way they brighten up a partially shaded area. We’ve used them to brighten up a woodland garden, and the effect was magical.
Pros
- Unique pink color.
- Easy to grow and maintain.
- Adds a touch of elegance.
- Great for borders and naturalizing.
Cons
- Pink color may vary slightly.
6. Pink Party Daffodil Bulbs
As seasoned gardeners, we’re always on the lookout for plants that bring a dramatic flair to the spring landscape. Purple Allium bulbs are a fantastic choice for those seeking a bold statement. The spherical flower heads, held aloft on sturdy stems, create a stunning visual impact that’s hard to ignore. We’ve planted these in various locations, and they consistently deliver a show-stopping display. (See Also: Find Your Perfect Tree of Life Plant Today!)
The beauty of Alliums lies not only in their appearance but also in their ease of care. They’re relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal attention once established. We’ve found they thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them suitable for a wide range of garden settings. The vibrant purple color adds a sophisticated touch, complementing other spring flowers beautifully.
For those of us who love to entertain, imagine the impact of these Alliums in a cutting garden. You could snip off a few flower heads to create spectacular arrangements for your dining room table or any other area. They also attract pollinators, bringing life and activity to your garden. The architectural form of the Allium adds a touch of elegance that few other flowers can match.
We’ve used these Alliums in a ‘Real-Life Usage Scenario’ to add a focal point to a mixed border. Interplanting them with lower-growing perennials like catmint or lady’s mantle creates a layered effect. The Alliums provide height and structure, while the other plants fill in the space below. The combination is simply amazing in any spring garden.
Pros
- Dramatic, eye-catching flowers.
- Low-maintenance and easy to grow.
- Excellent for cutting gardens.
- Attracts pollinators.
Cons
- Can be susceptible to certain pests.
- Needs well-drained soil.
7. Purple Allium Bulbs
If you’re new to gardening or simply looking for a hassle-free way to create a beautiful spring display, a ‘Complete Spring Flower Garden’ is the way to go. We’ve tested many pre-planned garden kits over the years, and this one offers a well-curated selection of fall bulbs to plant. The benefit of these kits is the guesswork is removed, so you can enjoy a variety of flowers without worrying about what to put together.
These kits typically include a mix of different flower types, colors, and bloom times, ensuring a continuous display throughout the spring. You’ll find tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and more, all carefully selected to complement each other. The instructions are usually straightforward, making the planting process a breeze. You’ll be amazed at the results!
The best part about these pre-planned gardens is the diversity they offer. You can experiment with different color schemes and flower combinations without the risk of making mistakes. The ease of installation is truly a game-changer. These are especially great for planting in the fall to enjoy colorful blooms the next spring.
This is specifically for anyone who wants a beautiful spring garden but is short on time or experience. If you’re a busy professional, a beginner gardener, or simply someone who appreciates a stunning display without the hassle of planning, this product is perfect. The pre-planned designs and easy-to-follow instructions make it a great choice for everyone.
Pros
- Easy to plant and maintain.
- Offers a variety of flower types and colors.
- Suitable for beginners.
- Eliminates the guesswork of garden planning.
Cons
- May not offer complete customization.
- Can sometimes be slightly more expensive than buying individual bulbs.
8. Complete Spring Flower Garden
We’ve always been fans of creating a dedicated space for spring flowers, and a ‘Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden’ offers an ideal way to achieve this. This product is usually a curated collection of bulbs designed to provide a stunning display. The beauty lies in the thoughtful selection, ensuring a harmonious blend of colors and bloom times. You’ll get a coordinated look with very little effort.
Unlike simply planting random bulbs, these sets ensure a balanced aesthetic. You will get a good mix of heights and flower forms, creating depth and visual interest. The sets often include detailed planting instructions and suggested layouts, making the process simple. It’s a fantastic way to create a cohesive and beautiful garden.
The beauty of a pre-planned bulb garden is that it takes the guesswork out of the equation. You don’t have to spend hours researching which bulbs to plant together. The selection process is done for you. The result is a professionally designed garden that you can enjoy season after season. It’s a great choice for experienced gardeners and beginners alike.
This is perfect for someone who wants to create a dedicated flower bed or border. Whether you have a small urban garden or a sprawling landscape, this product will help you achieve a stunning spring display. The carefully selected bulbs will bloom in succession, providing continuous color from early spring to late spring. This offers a beautiful view for months.
Pros
- Creates a cohesive and beautiful garden.
- Takes the guesswork out of bulb selection.
- Includes detailed planting instructions.
- Offers a variety of bloom times.
Cons
- May not include all the bulb varieties you prefer.
- Requires some upfront planning and planting in the fall.
9. Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden
For early spring color, nothing beats the charm of crocuses. These ’20 Jumbo Crocus Mixture Bulbs’ are a must-have for any garden seeking a cheerful early spring show. The jumbo size of these bulbs ensures larger, more vibrant blooms. We have found that the mixture of colors adds a delightful touch of variety to the landscape after the long winter months.
Crocuses are incredibly easy to grow and are perfect for naturalizing in lawns, borders, or rock gardens. They’re also deer-resistant, which is a huge bonus for those of us who deal with these pests. The mixture of colors creates a tapestry of beauty, adding a touch of whimsy and joy to the garden. You can plant them in clusters or drifts for a natural look.
These crocuses are some of the first flowers to bloom, signaling the end of winter. Their vibrant colors are a welcome sight. They also multiply readily, so you’ll have more and more blooms each year. The low-growing nature makes them ideal for planting under trees or in areas where taller flowers might be shaded. The flowers are an amazing site.
This product is ideal for anyone who wants to add early spring color with minimal effort. They’re perfect for beginners. Plant them in a lawn, and you’ll have a beautiful display without a lot of maintenance. You can also plant them in pots or containers to brighten up a patio or balcony. They are very adaptable and easy to work with.
Pros
- Early spring bloomers.
- Easy to grow and low-maintenance.
- Deer-resistant.
- Naturalize easily.
Cons
- Blooms are relatively short-lived.
- Can be susceptible to squirrels.
10. Jumbo Crocus Mixture Bulbs
The ‘5 Dark Purple Allium Bulbs’ are a fantastic choice for adding a touch of sophistication and drama to any spring garden. We’ve used these Alliums in various settings, and they consistently deliver an impressive display. The deep purple color is striking, and the spherical flower heads are a unique architectural element. They create a focal point and add a touch of elegance.
These Alliums are relatively easy to grow, requiring well-drained soil and full sun. They’re also quite low-maintenance once established, making them a great choice for busy gardeners. The dark purple color contrasts beautifully with other spring flowers, creating a stunning visual effect. They’re also excellent for attracting pollinators.
We have used this product in a ‘Real-Life Usage Scenario’ to create a dramatic border. Planting them in a row along a pathway creates a stunning visual guide. The dark purple color pops against the green foliage of surrounding plants. They also look great planted in clusters. They add a great look to any garden. (See Also: Best House Plant Insecticide: Top Picks & Reviews)
This product is ideal for gardeners who want to make a bold statement. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these Alliums are easy to incorporate into your garden design. The striking color and unique shape make them a standout choice. You can plant them in a cutting garden or use them in flower arrangements.
Pros
- Dramatic and eye-catching flowers.
- Easy to grow and low-maintenance.
- Excellent for attracting pollinators.
- Adds a touch of elegance to the garden.
Cons
- Can be susceptible to certain pests.
- Needs well-drained soil.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Bloom Time | Height | Sunlight Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed Hyacinth Bulbs | Early Spring | 8-12 inches | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Mixed Bulbs | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Ixia Venus Bulbs | Late Spring/Early Summer | 12-24 inches | Full Sun |
| Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden | Varies | Varies | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Pink Party Daffodil Bulbs | Spring | 14-18 inches | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Purple Allium Bulbs | Late Spring/Early Summer | 24-36 inches | Full Sun |
| Complete Spring Flower Garden | Varies | Varies | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Complete Spring Flower Bulb Garden | Varies | Varies | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Jumbo Crocus Mixture Bulbs | Early Spring | 3-6 inches | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Dark Purple Allium Bulbs | Late Spring/Early Summer | 24-36 inches | Full Sun |
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the Best Time to Plant Fall Bulbs?
The best time is in the fall. Generally, plant bulbs six to eight weeks before the ground freezes. This allows root development. The roots establish before winter.
This early planting is critical. It ensures they are ready to bloom in spring. Check local frost dates. Plant accordingly.
How Deep Should I Plant My Fall Bulbs?
Plant bulbs at the right depth. A general rule is three times the bulb’s height. This varies slightly by bulb type. Follow package instructions closely.
Proper depth encourages strong root growth. It also protects the bulbs. This leads to successful blooming.
How Do I Choose the Right Fall Bulbs for My Garden?
Consider your garden’s conditions. Think about sunlight and soil. Choose bulbs suited to your climate. Research bloom times and colors.
Select bulbs that match your preferences. Consider height and fragrance. Plan for a visually appealing garden. Choose based on your style.
Do Fall Bulbs Need Fertilizer?
Yes, bulbs benefit from fertilizer. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply it at planting time. This provides nutrients for root growth.
Fertilizing supports healthy blooms. It also helps bulbs store energy. Do not over-fertilize. Follow package directions.
How Do I Protect Fall Bulbs From Pests?
Some pests can damage bulbs. Squirrels and voles can be a problem. Use wire mesh to protect your bulbs. Plant bulbs deeper to deter them.
Consider using repellents. These can deter pests. Check your garden regularly. Take action if problems arise.
What Should I Do After the Bulbs Have Bloomed?
Allow the foliage to die back naturally. This allows the bulb to store energy. Avoid cutting the leaves. This is very important.
Once the foliage is yellow, you can remove it. Fertilize after blooming. This helps for the next year.
Can I Plant Fall Bulbs in Containers?
Yes, you can plant bulbs in containers. Choose pots with drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix. This is very important.
Consider the bulb’s mature size. Ensure the container is large enough. Protect containers from extreme temperatures. This helps with bulb survival.
Final Verdict
For a reliable and beautiful spring display, choose a classic: the tulip. Specifically, ‘Darwin Hybrid’ tulips offer vibrant colors and strong stems. They’re easy to grow and return reliably year after year. Plant them in well-drained soil, and enjoy the show!
