Fall Gardening – Planting Bulbs

It’s time to order bulbs to plant over the next few weeks so you can enjoy them in the spring.

Fall planting is so enjoyable with cooler temperatures here in Pennsylvania, and I love to shop, so I order a few new ones to add to my garden each year.

Here’s what I’m planting:

Fritillaria persica
Also known as the Persian Lily. I’ve always admired Fritillaria but have never planted them. This one was hard to resist with its amazing dark flowers. It’s considered a garden heirloom that dates back to 1573. 

Allium nectaroscordum
Commonly known as Mediterranean Bells or Sicilian honey garlic. I’m pretty sure these will do well since I already have Allium growing in my garden.

Dutch Iris ‘Blue Ribbon’
Hybridized by Holland growers this iris has thin reed-like foliage frequently used by florists. It makes a great cut flower.

I ordered my bulbs from Bluestone Perennials. You can click on the photos for more information. Besides being beautiful, new additions to my garden, I chose these because they are all considered deer and rodent resistant- a definite necessity where I live.

When planting your bulbs, follow the directions indicated by the grower. When in doubt, plant the bulb pointy side up, three to four times as deep as the bulb is wide. Sunny, well-drained areas are best, to avoid rot. Consider planting in groups or mass planting for a good show in the spring, and if you are worried about squirrels and chipmunks, try covering the planting area with chicken wire and then covering the wire with mulch.

Now you know what I’m planting, how about you?