Gardeners planning spring flowers can use a fall weekend to plant crocus, daffodils and other spring-blooming bulbs, following the depth and care instructions for each variety.
In fall guidance published Sept. 21, University of Vermont Extension recommends firm bulbs without mold. Soft or damaged bulbs should be discarded.
The advice is to choose early-, middle- and late-season varieties for flowers at different points in spring. Bulbs can go into new beds or between established perennials, with care to avoid existing roots.
Extension gives a general depth of about three times a bulb's height: a two-inch bulb would go in a six-inch hole. The package instructions take priority. Place the pointed end upward, replace the soil, press it lightly and water.
A layer of mulch can help retain moisture and reduce winter temperature changes that push soil upward and expose bulbs. In a weekend planting plan, start with the site and the bulbs' specific requirements rather than assuming every variety needs the same treatment.