Flower bulbs

Technically, many popular flower bulbs are not true bulbs. For example, dahlias are not bulbs but tubers. The big difference lies in the way they store food. In a tuber, the reserve food is stored in the fleshy root or stem.  

Types of flower bulbs

A flower bulb is actually very special. Everything needed for the plant to sprout at the right moment is contained in the bulb. Simply put, there are two types of flower bulbs: spring bulbs and summer-flowering bulbs. You plant the spring bulbs in autumn and the summer bulbs in spring. By combining different types of bulbs and tubers, you can enjoy beautiful flowers in your garden all year round.

Flower bulbs vs. tubers

Technically, many popular flower bulbs are not true bulbs. For example, dahlias are not bulbs but tubers. The big difference lies in the way they store food. In a tuber, the reserve food is stored in the fleshy root or stem.

Spring flower bulbs

The most well-known and popular spring bloomers are tulip bulbs, narcissus, and muscari. Our range also includes beautiful alliums, ranunculus and anemones. These bulbs can be planted in autumn, from October to mid-December. The unique thing about these bulbs is that they need a cold period to grow. The bulbs will bloom between February and May. It is good to know that the exact time of blooming depends on the spring temperature.  

Planting flower bulbs  

In general, you should plant flower bulbs at a depth of approximately three times their height. Since our flower bulbs are quite large, this is usually 15 cm. A bulb that is 2 cm high should therefore be planted at a depth of about 6 cm. The tip of the bulb should point upwards and the rounded side, where the roots grow, downwards. Plant the bulbs about 15 cm apart. Don’t forget to water the bulbs if the soil is very dry so they can quickly root and are better protected against weather influences.

Caring for flower bulbs  

You don’t need to water flower bulbs every day. They need water when the soil is dry. When tulips bloom, water regularly if it does not rain; tulips with large flowers especially can use some moisture, otherwise the flower heads dry out and they won’t bloom fully.

Overwintering flower bulbs  

Once tulip bulbs have finished blooming, it is best to dig up the spring bulbs and throw them away. In the second year, they bloom much less profusely. If you want them to bloom again, you can read how to do that in our blog about faded tulips. Narcissus, on the other hand, can be left to naturalize in the garden. Just let them finish blooming completely; the flowers will then dry naturally. You leave the plant standing and when it has completely died back in July, you can optionally cut or trim the foliage. All the plant’s energy is then stored in the bulb for the next season. Next year you can enjoy even more flowers.

Do you have muscari in your garden? They can simply be left in the ground, as these bulbs tolerate frost well. For extra protection, you can cover them with a layer of mulch (leaves) to help them survive a harsh winter.

Our favorite flower bulbs  

At FAM Flower Farm, you can buy various bulbs, namely tulip bulbs, narcissus bulbs, and muscari bulbs. Can’t decide among all that beauty? We list our favorite flower bulbs.  

Tulips  

  We love pink, so it will not surprise you that the pink tulip Milkshake is one of our favorites. Not a fan of pink? Then the classic double tulip Double Twist might be for you. You will find tulips not only in different colors but also in different shapes. Think, for example, of fringed tulips. The white tulip Noordeinde is one of the most popular.

Narcissus

Did you know that narcissi also come in different flower shapes? The beautiful narcissus Rip van Winkle is almost unrecognizable as a narcissus because of its funny tuft. The popular Tête á Tête narcissus grows with little care and is a typical yellow narcissus that naturalizes quickly. But white narcissi are also becoming more popular, think for example of the beautiful Mount Hood. Since these flowers are available in white, yellow, orange, and cream, it is also fun to combine them all.

Buying flower bulbs?

Want to buy flower bulbs? You can order flower bulbs from July 1 to early December at FAM Flower Farm. In addition, you will also find flower seeds, dahlias, and useful accessories in our assortment. Combine different flowers for a beautiful flower garden.