Bulbs for Autumn Planting

Bulbs for autumn planting are the foundation of a colourful spring.
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Buy bulbs: spring-flowering bulbs to plant in autumn

Autumn-planted bulbs need a cold period to flower in spring, which is why they go into the ground in autumn. If you combine different genera, you will have flowers continuously from the first crocuses to the alliums in June.

The main genera at a glance

You will find further rarities such as bluebells among our special spring-flowering bulbs.

Planting time and position in Switzerland

On the Swiss Plateau, October is the best month, and tulips can still go in during November. At higher altitudes, plant earlier, from mid-September, so the bulbs root before the ground freezes. Most spring-flowering bulbs like sun to partial shade and well-drained soil that does not become waterlogged. Squills and bluebells also cope with light shade beneath trees and shrubs.

Planting and care

As a rule of thumb, plant at a depth of about two to three times the height of the bulb. Small bulbs such as crocuses go 5 to 8 cm deep, tulips and daffodils 12 to 15 cm, large allium bulbs around 15 to 20 cm. Plant in groups rather than rows, as this looks more natural. Water once after planting; after that, autumn rain is enough.

Leave the foliage after flowering until it turns yellow, so the bulbs can build up strength for next year. Daffodils, crocuses, squills and alliums naturalise well, while many tulip varieties flower less strongly in their second year.

Ranunculus and anemones

Ranunculus and anemones such as 'Mistral Edge' are only partly hardy in Switzerland. Plant the tubers in pots in autumn and keep them in a bright, frost-free place, or plant them straight into the bed in spring. Soak them in water for a few hours before planting.

Pots and balconies

The lasagne method works well for pots: large bulbs at the bottom, small ones on top, so one container flowers for weeks. In winter, place the pots in a sheltered spot against the house wall and water only on frost-free days.