Spring bulbs- some familiar, some unique | Zachary Berger Associates, Ltd.

Here in northern New England, we are finally seeing blooms of early and mid-spring bulbs. As usual it has been well worth the wait!

Those seemingly insignificant bulbs which were plunged into the soil last fall are coming to life above ground with colorful flowers, some subtle and some spectacular. Actually, those bulbs are very much alive in the fall, putting roots into the soil before the ground freezes.

Most bulbs require well-drained soil and partial to full sun exposure. Marginally hardy bulbs like windflower can be grown in areas adjacent to houses, stone structures or large boulders where soil temperatures are moderated. The leaves must remain for six to eight weeks after bloom so the bulbs can be nourished for next spring. Removing just the spent flower stalks right after blooms fade will promote vigorous flowering next spring.

Here are a few of the more unique spring bulbs, shown here in various clients’ gardens: Windflower, Squill, Aconite, Tarda tulip and Snowdrops