Spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils and alliums are planted in fall for flowers next spring; summer bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus go in after frost. Plant fall bulbs from late September until the ground freezes.
We carry these at both stores — they just aren’t in our online catalog yet. Please call South Portland or Westbrook for what’s in today.
How to choose
- Depth: plant bulbs about three times as deep as they are tall, pointy end up.
- Deer: daffodils and alliums are rarely eaten; tulips and crocus are deer and squirrel favorites.
- Plant in groups: clusters of 7 to 10 look far better than single rows.
Frequently asked questions
When do I plant tulips and daffodils in Maine?
From late September until the ground freezes, usually through October and into early November.
Which bulbs do deer and squirrels leave alone?
Daffodils, alliums, snowdrops and fritillaria are rarely bothered.
Do I need to dig up bulbs in winter?
Spring bulbs stay in the ground. Tender summer bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus should be dug up after frost and stored indoors.
Should I fertilize bulbs?
Mix bulb food or bone meal into the planting hole in fall.