In Atlanta, fall is the best time to plant spring flowering bulbs, usually mid-October to mid-November. This is before the first frost, when the soil is still warm.

Planting daffodil bulbs can be done in a variety of ways. You can plant them in rows or in a random pattern by throwing the bulbs in the air and planting them where they fall. It depends on your personal preference. Use a trowel or a shovel and plant the bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep.

In the Atlanta area we have the best results with daffodils, hyacinths, and hyacinth muscari. Unfortunately, tulips are only good for one season here because they typically don’t return well the following year.

Georgia has a lot of red clay soil, which is not a bad thing when it comes to bulbs because they are hardy. The sun and shade conditions are more important than the type of soil. Daffodil bulbs do best in full sun to partial shade. Also, good drainage is important because it keeps the roots from staying soggy and allows them to grow to their full potential.

Different varieties bloom at different times in the season. Some bloom early and others bloom mid-season. Check the label on the package to know what you are getting.

You also can talk to a specialist at a garden center and ask for help selecting bulbs suitable for your specific needs. Or contact your county’s extension office or consult a gardening website for more tips on planting bulbs.   

If you have a topic you’d like to see covered or a question about landscaping — on campus or in your yard — email editor@comm.gatech.edu.

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• Caring for Houseplants
• Planting a Vegetable Garden