Can I salvage bulbs if I missed the fall planting deadline?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.If you miss the fall planting window you will not ruin your bulbs! I have saved hundreds for clients after using controlled storage. The most important aspect is to replicate a winter chill. Store the bulbs in the dark, exposed to 40-50 °F (4-10 °C) temperatures. A shelf in a garage or an unheated basement functions nicely. Never store bulbs in plastic bags. They keep moisture in and encourage bulbs to rot.
Zones 3-5 (Cold Winters)
- Use mesh bags filled with slightly damp peat moss
- Check monthly for mold
- Plant in April when soil reaches 50°F (10°C)
- Pre-chill hyacinths for 8 weeks pre-planting
Zones 6-7 (Moderate Winters)
- Store in refrigerator crisper drawer
- Isolate from fruits emitting ethylene gas
- Plant late February during thaw periods
- Daffodils tolerate later planting better than tulips
Zones 8-11 (Warm Winters)
- Refrigerate bulbs 12-14 weeks before planting
- Wrap in newspaper to absorb excess moisture
- Plant in January after artificial chilling
- Choose pre-cooled bulbs from nurseries
Soak mismanaged bulbs for 3 hours to restore moisture. A Texas customer was able to revive 80% of her amaryllis this way. After they have plumped, plant without delay. Use mycorrhizal fungi benefits of absorbing nutrients when plants are asleep from stress; not for active growing. Do not use fertilizer until leaves emerge.
Essential Tools
- Soil thermometer ($12-$20)
- Bulb dibber for precise depth
- Organic bulb tonic (kelp-based)
- Hardware cloth for rodent protection
Soil Prep
- Mix 20% perlite into native soil
- Test drainage: 1" water per hour ideal
- Avoid fresh manure - attracts pests
- Top-dress with 1" compost post-planting
In warm climates or warm regions, refrigerate the bulbs with a thermometer inside. I once opened a client's fridge and it was 38°F (3°C). Too cold, as I would like them warmer, around 45°F (7°C). Did you forget to chill? Plant Lycoris squamigera. These surprise lilies thrive without pre-chilling. I like them for emergency color.
Read the full article: 7 Essential Tips to Plant Bulbs This Fall
