The array of spring-flowering bulbs includes tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, snowdrops, and flowering onions. By planting a variety of spring-flowering bulbs, gardeners can enjoy blooming plants from late March to mid-June.

For best selection, visit your local garden center early. Select large, firm bulbs. Avoid soft or blemished bulbs. Store purchased bulbs in a cool, dry location until they can be planted in the fall. October is the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. To achieve the greatest visual impact, plant spring-flowering bulbs in clusters or drifts. When planting tulips or daffodils, plant 10 or more bulbs of the same variety in a cluster. Smaller growing bulbs, such as Siberian squill, should be planted in drifts of 50 or more. The flowering list provides planting depth and spacing of various spring-flowering bulbs.

* Planting depth is measured from the base of the bulb to the soil surface.

This article originally appeared in the September 13, 2002 issue, p. 118.