Everyone wants a few of the old favorite bulbs – the hyacinths. These are a must for their perfume even though it may be overpowering at times. Hyacinths are usually grown in a more formal bed arrangement than other spring bulbs. Sometimes they are used as borders. ‘King of Blues’ remains a favorite even though you may now buy improved strains.

Crocuses are always popular in the early spring, especially naturalized on the lawn. By scattering a few bulbs (they are correctly known as corms) on the lawn and planting them as they fall, an informal effect is gained. In the early spring they peek out like a harbinger of a happy season. The colors are yellow, blue, white and striped.

There are many other bulbs in the spring galaxy. Among them are the muscari or grape hyacinths, the scillas, snowdrops, and Dutch irises. Every gardener has his own preference and will concentrate on the ones best loved, as for me i like pony tail palms in my garden, but October is the month for the largest plantings of these. Actually, for late bloom, these bulbs may be planted on through the season until after Christmas. One of the most beautiful uses of the spring bulbs is to plant them in areas covered with ground cover plants. In this environment they have a perfect foil against which to display their beautiful blooms.

Now is also the time when bulbs-for forcing should be started. All bulbs intended for this use should be potted with the growing tips exposed in the pots to facilitate quick growth when they start. In potting make certain to provide adequate drainage and soak the containers thoroughly before putting away for the roots to develop.