How to Store Spring Bulbs? Here's How!
Spring has passed, and the Spring Bloomers have finished flowering. But what should you do with the spring bulbs now? We often get asked whether it's possible to store bulbs and how to go about it. In this blog, we'll explain everything!
Which Spring Bulbs Should You Remove from the Ground?
With so many different types of bulbs, how do you know which ones to remove and which can stay in the ground? The general rule is that cultivated varieties, such as most Tulips and Hyacinths, are best lifted from the ground once the foliage has died back. Non-cultivated bulb species, like most Crocuses and Daffodils, are naturalizing types that can be left in the ground.
Let the Foliage Die Back
Firstly, it’s important to know that as long as the stems and leaves are still green, you should absolutely not cut them off. The foliage must be allowed to die back naturally. While this may not look attractive in the garden, it's the best thing for the plant. You can, however, remove the flower, as is often done in flower fields in the bulb-growing regions. But why can the flower be removed and not the leaves? The reason is that the bulbs absorb nutrients from the leaves, which helps them grow again next year. Once the foliage has fully died back and turned yellow, you can cut it off and remove the bulbs from the ground.
The Bulbs are Out of the Ground, What’s Next?
Once you've removed the spring bulbs from the ground, it’s essential to dry them. Brush off any dirt or soil, but do not wash them with water! Bulbs don’t like moisture, as it increases the risk of rotting. Once the bulbs are clean and dry, it's best to wrap them in newspaper and store them in a dry, cool place. Avoid placing them directly on the floor—store them in a cupboard or on a shelf instead.
Replanting the Bulbs
When autumn arrives, you can replant the spring bulbs. October is the ideal month for this, but as long as there's no frost, you can still plant them. We recommend planting the bulbs in a different spot from the previous year to avoid nutrient deficiencies and to get the most out of the bulbs. You can also enrich the soil with some compost. However, keep in mind that bulbs are natural products, and there’s no guarantee they’ll flower again the following year.
