How to Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs for Landscapes That Stand Out

Spring flowering bulbs are a dependable way to bring early-season impact to landscapes. Their color and structure combine to create a strong first impression for clients and help properties stand out when most other plants are still dormant. For contractors, bulbs are also a beautifully practical service line. They require relatively low material investment but deliver high visual return once established.

The success of a spring bulb display depends on decisions made months earlier. When handled correctly, bulbs add depth to planting designs, fill gaps in beds and provide an opportunity to extend the service calendar into fall. Here are a few tips and best practices to keep in mind.

Timing

Planting bulbs at the right time is the single most important factor in how well they perform come spring. The goal is to give them enough time to establish roots before the ground hardens in winter. Fall is the critical window, but exactly when to plant depends on local conditions.

In colder climates where freezes begin early, bulbs need to go in the ground sooner. Planting earlier in the fall gives roots a chance to develop before frost sets in. In milder regions, the window extends later into the fall, since the soil stays workable longer. The key is not the calendar date but the soil temperature. Bulbs are best planted when soil has cooled to roughly 40–50°F.

Timing also varies by bulb type. Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other common spring varieties all require a chilling period to trigger flowering, but their tolerance for soil conditions and planting dates can differ. Checking the specific recommendations for each variety ensures they receive the vernalization they need while still rooting in time to establish before winter.

Ultimately, fall bulb timing is a balance between climate, soil temperature and species requirements. Careful planning with these factors in mind generally leads to stronger spring displays and more predictable results.

Depth

How deep bulbs are planted directly affects their ability to establish and bloom. A good rule of thumb is to set bulbs at a depth two to three times their height. That means a bulb about two inches tall should be placed four to six inches below the soil surface. Planting too shallow risks exposure to temperature swings and wildlife disturbance, while planting too deep can delay or weaken emergence in the spring.

Consistency is just as important as depth itself. A uniform planting depth across beds or clusters results in a more even bloom, which is often the difference between a landscape that looks scattered and one that has strong visual cohesion.

Steps for Planting

Planting bulbs is straightforward, but the details at each stage determine whether they thrive or struggle. Each step calls for care and attention to detail.

1. Choose the Location
The right site sets the foundation for healthy growth. Bulbs need well-drained soil; planting them in areas that hold water is one of the quickest ways to lose a season. Sun exposure is also critical, since most spring bulbs prefer full to partial light. Evaluating the site in advance saves both time and rework.

2. Prepare the Soil
Loosening compacted soil helps bulbs root more effectively and allows moisture and nutrients to circulate. Removing weeds, rocks and other debris will give bulbs clear space to develop underground. In heavier soils, mixing in organic matter or sand improves drainage and provides roots with the oxygen they need to establish before winter.

3. Dig to the Right Depth
Remember, the general rule is to plant bulbs at a depth two to three times their height, but soil type influences this calculation. Clay soils, which hold more moisture, may require planting slightly shallower to prevent rot, while sandy soils benefit from deeper planting for stability and consistent moisture.

4. Place Bulbs Correctly
Orientation matters. The pointed end should always face upward since that’s where the shoot emerges. A bulb planted sideways or upside down will still attempt to grow, but the extra energy required often results in weak or delayed blooms. Taking a moment to double-check placement ensures bulbs are set up for strong growth once conditions warm.

5. Cover and Water
After the bulbs are placed, backfill with soil and firm it gently to remove gaps. A thorough watering helps the soil settle around the bulbs and provides the moisture needed to initiate root development. While overwatering should be avoided, a deep initial soak helps bulbs establish quickly before winter dormancy. From this point forward, the natural cycle happens underground, preparing the display that will emerge in spring.

Quick Bonus Tips

A few additional practices can help turn a good bulb installation into a standout display:

Grouping

Bulbs are far more striking when planted in clusters rather than scattered individually. Grouping them in drifts or clusters of odd numbers creates a natural look and ensures color is concentrated where it can be appreciated from a distance. This approach also helps mask any gaps that may occur if a few bulbs fail to emerge.

Layering

Combining bulbs of varying heights or bloom times in the same bed adds visual depth and extends the display period. For example, pairing early crocus or hyacinths with later-blooming tulips or alliums creates a layered effect that evolves throughout the season. This simple design choice helps maximize both color and texture within the same planting area.

Mulching

Mulch provides insulation that moderates soil temperature, reduces the risk of heaving during freeze–thaw cycles and helps retain moisture. A light layer of organic mulch also suppresses early weed growth in spring, giving bulbs less competition as they emerge.

Revenue Opportunities with Bulb Planting

Fall bulb installation can be a relatively easy way to expand your seasonal services. As other landscape work begins to slow down in autumn, offering bulb planting provides an avenue to be productive and maintain steady revenue flow. The work is very efficient, requiring limited materials and manageable labor, yet it delivers a dramatic payoff in spring when clients see the results.

Additionally, bulbs can set the stage for repeat business. When clients see a successful display emerge in spring, it reinforces your expertise and leaves a lasting impression. That often leads to additional work, referrals, and future bookings for other services including planting summer flowering bulbs in spring.

Getting the Best Results

Bulb planting is one of those services where the payoff comes months later and lasts far longer. What starts with a bag of bulbs can grow into a visible boost to your business. SiteOne® Landscape Supply makes it easier to plan ahead with quality bulbs, resources and seasonal savings programs. Explore our Spring Bulb Seasonal Pricing and find big savings with our Early Order programs that launch each April.