Gardening: Planting bulbs in October ensures spring blooms

Gardeners are increasingly practicing ‘garden banking’ by planting bulbs and seeds in October to ensure spring blooms. This practice relies on the biological necessity of a cold period to trigger flowering.

Experts advise that spring bulbs require approximately 12 weeks of soil temperatures below 38°F to bloom successfully. Planting in soil that is too warm can cause premature sprouting, while waiting too long may result in insufficient chilling time. A general rule for planting depth is to bury bulbs two to three times as deep as their height.

In regions like Portugal, suitable varieties include daffodils, hyacinths, bulb irises, muscari, and freesias. For tulips, which may require more intense cold, gardeners in warmer southern climates can refrigerate bulbs for six to eight weeks before planting. Proper drainage is also critical, as stagnant water can cause bulbs to rot during the winter months.