September 19, 2005
All About Bulbs
Welcome to LeafyLife the week of the autumn equinox!
This is the time for bulb mania. A little advance planning and outdoor work in the fall pays a spectacular dividend in the spring.
A word to the wise: order your bulbs now! Premium bulbs are cheaper and generally in better condition when purchased by mail order rather than from your local nursery or hardware store. Breck's, White Flower Farms, Spring Hill Nursery, Burpee, Park Seed Company, and the like (see links below) offer collections at prices far less per bulb than buying them separately. Many suppliers give discounts for ordering BEFORE October 15th. If you're too late to order by mail, look for large, plump bulbs that have not been picked over or damaged. Be sure to check the zone hardiness for your area. And don't forget the tools and all-important bone meal!
The U.S. Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center is a good place to find out all about bulbs...
Breck's
White Flower Farms
Wayside Gardens
Spring Hill