Jump Start Your Summer Bulbs

Ben HenryMay 17, '20
Jump Start Your Summer Bulbs

Summer bulbs from Netherland Bulb Company arrive in March!

The Netherland Bulb Company supplies us with quality bulbs in sizes that are very impressive; Cannas and Dahlias are 25% larger than average. Size counts, larger bulbs mean healthier plants with bigger, robust flowers. March is the time to get a jump start on your summer bulbs. Elephant ears, Cannas, Callas and Dahlias (all summer bulbs) can be started indoors 6-8 weeks prior to our last frost date. Plants will mature much earlier; you’ll enjoy a beautiful show all summer.

Select containers with good drainage and enough depth to establish a healthy root system (at least 6” wide x 7” deep). Our garden center has a good supply of 1 gallon grower pots located near the bulb display. Clean used containers with 1 part bleach to 8 parts hot water. Pesche’s Professional Potting and Planting Mix is the perfect planting medium. Mix 2 -3 heaping tablespoons of Dr. Earth Organic 1 Bulb Food into the potting soil under where you place the bulb. Its okay if the fertilizer touches the bulb, Dr. Earth Bulb Food will not burn a bulb like conventional /chemical granules fertilizers. Follow the directions on the bulb package for planting depth. Keep the soil moist not wet (use distilled or de-chlorinated water). Provide bottom heat with a heat mat or place near a heater vent. Once the bulbs sprout, rotate containers 180 degrees every 3 days for even growth. Bulbs thrive with a plant light to assure sturdy plants that are not leggy; a good sunny window will work. Transplant outside when soil temperatures are 60° or warmer and air temperatures are 50° or warmer.

Make sure to amend your planting beds with organic matter. Back to Nature Flower Bed Conditioner adds proper nutrients and loosens heavy clay soils for better drainage. When planting your “Jump Stared” bulbs you’ll be surprised to see a huge root system that developed. Use more Dr. Earth Bulb Food when planting per instructions on the bag. Our expert staff is always on hand to help you with your bulb selections or proper planting techniques. Additional summer bulb information can be found at www.netherlandbulb.com. Now think of huge colorful dinner plate dahlias smiling in the summer sun or giant elephant ears with their showy foliage in the shade! Enjoy!

Garden Help Desk