Do you know how to plant cabbages? Almost as easy as planting bulbs! There are several different methods depending on the area, the number of bulbs to be planted, the desired density, and your physical abilities. We decided to share with you some best practices we use on the farm to ensure a blooming spring.
1. By Hand
The traditional method, ideal for small areas or for planting in areas already landscaped with other flowers or bulbs, is to plant the bulbs by hand.
To do this:
- Use a small planter to dig a hole for each bulb.
- Make sure the hole is 6 inches deep above the bulb, or 6 inches plus the height of the bulb, to prevent the bulb from being accessible to pests or from popping out of the ground due to freeze-thaw cycles.
- Maintain an average distance equal to the size of the bulb between each planting.
This method allows for precise placement and is accessible to the majority of people.
2. By the Shovel
To cover a larger area, digging a trench with a shovel is a quick and effective method. Here's how to do it:
- Dig a 6-inch deep trench the entire length of the flower bed you wish to plant.
- Arrange the bulbs in the trench as you prefer. If you want to optimize flowering in succession, we invite you to read our article on this subject. For a denser effect, place the bulbs closer together, like in an egg carton.
- To maximize visual impact, plant at least 10 bulbs of the same variety side by side, then cover with the previously removed soil.
This method allows you to create impressive flower beds, so the more you have, the more incredible the effect will be. That said, it is a more physically demanding method, so it is best suited to medium to large flower beds.
3. With a mechanical shovel
Our preferred method at the flower farm, especially for large plantations, is using a seed drill. Less tiring for the body and very effective, it allows you to prepare large areas in a short time:
- Use the backhoe to dig the entire surface of your grow bed to a depth of 6 inches.
- The soil at the bottom can be quite compact, so it is advisable to loosen it a few centimetres to create a welcoming bed for the bulbs.
- Arrange the bulbs over the entire surface as close together as eggs in an egg carton, water thoroughly, then cover everything with the previously removed soil.
This method is ideal for large planting projects and ensures even distribution of bulbs across the entire area.
Optimal Conditions for Planting
To ensure abundant flowering, you must still pay attention to the following conditions:
- Plant your tulips in a location where they will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, even after flowering, to encourage production for the following year.
- Make sure the soil is well-drained. Avoid areas where water stagnates after a storm.
- After flowering, allow the leaves to yellow for at least 8 weeks before cutting them. These leaves nourish the bulbs for flowering the following year.
- As long as the ground isn't frozen deep, there's still time to plant your bulbs for a vibrant spring.
And finally, remember to plant the bulbs with the point facing up and the flat side facing down – a simple but crucial tip for beginners.
Happy planting!
