Fall bulb planting is one of gardening’s quiet joys... the kind of work that rewards you months later when the first colors of spring burst through the soil. It’s a simple act of hope: you dig, plant, and trust nature to do the rest.
Whether you’re new to bulbs or a seasoned gardener, fall is the perfect time to get your hands in the dirt, enrich your soil, and plan for a show-stopping spring display.
Why Fall Is the Best Time to Plant Bulbs
Planting bulbs in the fall gives them the cool period they need to develop strong root systems before winter sets in. As the soil cools but stays workable, roots grow quietly underground, preparing for that big spring awakening.
The cooler air, moist soil, and fewer weeds make fall planting easier and more successful. All you need is quality bulbs, a good plan, and Coast of Maine Organic Soil to set them up for success.
Bulbs to Plant This Fall (and How to Plant Them Right)
Tulips
Tulips bring a rainbow of color and elegant form to spring gardens.
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Planting depth: 6–8 inches deep
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Spacing: 4–6 inches apart
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Tips: Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and plant tulips in groups of 10 or more for bold, eye-catching color blocks. If critters are a problem, plant them with daffodils nearby — their scent helps deter pests.
Daffodils
These cheerful blooms are among the easiest bulbs to grow and naturalize beautifully over the years.
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Planting depth: 6–8 inches deep
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Spacing: 6 inches apart
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Tips: Daffodils prefer full to partial sun and thrive in well-draining, compost-enriched soil. They’re deer- and rodent-resistant, making them a reliable backbone of any spring garden.
Hyacinths
Fragrant and full of personality, hyacinths are perfect near doors, walkways, or windows where their scent can be appreciated.
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Planting depth: 4–6 inches deep
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Spacing: 3 inches apart
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Tips: Handle bulbs with gloves — their skins can sometimes cause irritation. For a longer bloom season, mix different color varieties together.
Alliums
These globe-shaped flowers bring architectural flair to your garden and bloom after tulips and daffodils, extending the season.
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Planting depth: 6–8 inches deep
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Spacing: 8–10 inches apart
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Tips: Alliums love full sun and well-drained soil. They pair beautifully with ornamental grasses and late-blooming perennials.
Crocuses
Among the earliest signs of spring, crocuses are small but mighty — often poking through snow to announce the season’s arrival.
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Planting depth: 3–4 inches deep
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Spacing: 3 inches apart
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Tips: Plant them in drifts or scattered through the lawn for a natural, meadow-like look. They multiply quickly when left undisturbed.
The Secret to a Long-Lasting Spring Display: Layering Your Bulbs
Want flowers that bloom for months instead of weeks? Try layering your bulbs, also known as the “lasagna method.”
Here’s how it works:
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Start with a deep container or garden bed. Make sure it has good drainage.
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Add a layer of organic soil at the bottom. The rich nutrients and natural compost will feed your bulbs as they root.
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Plant in layers:
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Bottom layer: Large bulbs like daffodils and tulips (6–8 inches deep).
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Middle layer: Medium bulbs like hyacinths or alliums (4–6 inches deep).
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Top layer: Small bulbs like crocuses (2–3 inches deep).
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Cover each layer with organic soil before adding the next.
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Water well after planting to help settle the soil and trigger root growth.
As spring arrives, your bulbs will bloom in sequence — crocuses first, then daffodils, tulips, and finally alliums — creating a stunning wave of color that lasts for weeks.
Why Organic Soil Matters
Using Coast of Maine organic soil gives your bulbs the perfect start. Unlike conventional mixes that rely on chemical fertilizers, organic soil is alive, and rich with composted materials, beneficial microbes, and natural minerals.
A blend made with aged bark, compost, and ocean-based ingredients provides the perfect balance of drainage and moisture retention. It feeds the soil over time, helps bulbs establish strong roots, and supports pollinators by keeping your garden chemical-free.
Healthy soil = healthy bulbs = a more vibrant, resilient garden.
Plant Now, Bloom Later
When spring rolls around and your first crocus opens or a tulip unfurls in the sunshine, you’ll be glad you took the time this fall. Planting bulbs is more than a garden task, it’s a promise to yourself that brighter days are ahead.
So, grab your gloves, a bag of bulbs, and a few scoops of your favorite organic soil. Let’s plant a little beauty for the future ...one bulb at a time.
