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Planting
Bulbs in the Central Valley Flower bulbs were a big part of my childhood years in Colorado. Through the winter months there were "forced" paper white narcissus bulbs that fragrantly bloomed in the rooms of our home. In the early months of spring thaw my father called us outside to see the colorful snowdrops and crocus, which peeked out from the blanket of snow in the yard…..a hopeful sign of spring! Gardeners who come from colder climates to our Central Valley find a few pleasant surprises about growing bulbs in this warmer climate. Among these positive differences are: 1) the "window" for planting fall bulbs is longer, 2) bulbs like gladiolas and dahlias don't need to be lifted from the ground for winter storage, and 3) paper white narcissus bulbs often bloom in the garden before the "forced" narcissus bulbs have bloomed indoors! The ideal time for planting spring-blooming bulbs in the Central Valley is between the pumpkin and the turkey (yes, between Halloween and Thanksgiving). Are you too late to plant for spring bloom? No, but don't delay. If the ground isn't too soggy, these popular bulbs can be planted now and enjoyed in the spring: amaryllis, anemone, callas, daylily, freesia, gladiolus, narcissus or daffodils, and ranunculus. Since the warmer climate of the valley doesn't provide the necessary chilling period required by bulbs such as tulips, crocus, hyacinth, and snowdrops, these bulbs must be chilled in the refrigerator for 10-12 weeks before being planted and will bloom only one year. If you store bulbs in the refrigerator, do not store fruit such as apples at the same time, since the ethylene gas emitted by apples will stunt the bulb growth. Most other bulbs will come back year after year as long as summer drainage is good. If low growing plants are what you are looking for, try anemone or windflowers, which have colorful flowers ranging from pinks to deep blues. Another low-growing plant with colorful flowers is the freesia, known also for its rich fragrance. Taller bulbs such as ranunculus, daylilies, or callas add height interest to the garden. Ranunculus are a colorful performer in our valley, but require good drainage. Daylilies are available in great new colors, are adaptable to either sun or light shade, and are tough, relatively pest-free, and easy to divide. Once known mainly as a white flower, the calla can now be found in red, pink, gold or spotted colors. New calla varieties need slightly acid soil and good drainage. When planting bulbs follow these simple rules: Most bulbs have a distinct shape with a point that should be planted upward so the roots will grow downward, but a few bulbs provide a challenge. Ranunculus bulbs look like dancers at Radio City Music Hall: all their "legs" should be pointed down. Dahlia bulbs should lie on their sides. Bearded iris should be planted more shallowly, because, like beach bums, they like their backs slightly exposed to the sun. If you have a bulb which seems to be shapeless or rootless, lay it on its side and it will decide which way to get to the sun.
November 21, 2002 |