Spring Bulbs: Why Fall Planting Sets You Up for a Gorgeous Garden

(…Even If the Squirrels Think You’re Doing It for Them)

Every fall I swear I’m going to “go easy” on the bulb orders.
And then I blink, and there’s a box the size of a small appliance sitting on my porch full of daffodils, tulips, alliums, and at least four varieties of bulbs I forgot I even added to the cart.

But listen — fall bulb planting is the ultimate act of delayed gratification. You dig in the cold, get muddy, curse the squirrels, and then six months later your yard looks like it belongs on a garden show. Totally worth it.

🌸 Why Fall Is the Time to Do It

Bulbs need that cold, cozy winter nap to bloom beautifully in spring. It’s like chilling cookie dough — the results are just better.

Once planted, they’ll settle in, start rooting quietly under the soil, and reward you with the first color of the year when you’re absolutely desperate for something alive again.

🐿️ The Real Battle: You vs. Wildlife

I’ve come to accept that the squirrels think I’m running a buffet. They see me plant, they take notes, and two hours later it’s “thanks for dinner.”

Sometimes I put down chicken wire if I’m feeling extra ambitious, but mostly it’s survival of the fittest around here. I like to think it builds character — for both me and the bulbs.

A few tips that help:

  • Plant daffodils — they’re the overachievers of the bulb world and the deer hate them.
  • Keep tulips close to the house — it’s the only way they stand a fighting chance.
  • Mix in some alliums and anemones for surprise pops of texture and color.
  • Plant in clusters instead of neat rows — they look more natural and you’ll feel less rage if something eats a few.

🌷 My Own Bulb Habits (a.k.a. Organized Chaos)

Each year I add a few new varieties just to see what happens. Daffodils are my reliable old friends, crocuses kick things off early, and the lilies and irises bring the drama later on.

I also planted a couple of new peony roots this fall — because apparently, I think I need more plants that require patience and emotional commitment.

Every spring is a bit of a surprise show — not everything survives, but what does always feels earned.

🌼 My Fall Bulb Routine

  1. Pick a weekend that’s just cold enough to question your life choices.
  2. Dump all the bulbs in one big pile and immediately forget what’s what.
  3. Dig, plant, cover, and hope for the best.
  4. Reward yourself with something warm to drink and pretend you’ll remember where everything is come April.


By the time spring hits, you’ll have forgotten all about the digging, and you’ll just be out there yelling, “Oh look! I planted that!” like it’s a miracle.

Want to plan your spring color show (without ending up buried in bulb boxes)? I can help you design, plant, and prep a garden that wakes up beautifully next spring.

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