How to Plant Multiple Bulbs Close Together With A Bulb Planter?

25 minutes read

Planting multiple bulbs close together with a bulb planter is a simple and efficient way to create beautiful flower beds or add color to your garden. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  1. Prepare the soil: Choose a suitable location in your garden that receives adequate sunlight and has well-drained soil. Remove any weeds or debris from the area and ensure the soil is loose and fertile.
  2. Select the bulbs: Choose the type of bulbs you want to plant. Bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, or crocuses work well for mass planting.
  3. Measure the spacing: Consider the recommended spacing for the specific bulbs you have chosen. This information can usually be found on the packaging or obtained from a trusted gardening resource. Measure the spacing using a ruler or measuring tape, ensuring the distance meets the requirements for the bulbs you're planting.
  4. Use a bulb planter: A bulb planter is a specialized garden tool designed to make planting bulbs easier. It typically consists of a long handle with a cylindrical metal or plastic attachment at the end. Insert the bulb planter into the soil at the desired planting location, using the measurements determined earlier.
  5. Dig the hole: Push the bulb planter into the ground using a twisting motion. This will cut through the soil and create a hole for the bulbs. Continue twisting and pushing until the hole is deep enough to accommodate the bulbs.
  6. Plant the bulbs: Once the hole is prepared, drop the bulbs into the hole, ensuring they are placed at the appropriate depth as specified by the bulb's instructions. The top of the bulb should generally be positioned at a consistent depth, regardless of the type of bulb.
  7. Cover and firm the soil: After placing the bulbs in the hole, gently push the soil from the planter back into the hole around the bulbs. Use the bulb planter to gently compact the soil, ensuring the bulbs are securely planted. This step helps to prevent air pockets and stabilize the bulbs.
  8. Repeat the process: Continue using the bulb planter to dig additional holes for the remaining bulbs, making sure to maintain the desired spacing between each hole. Repeat steps 5 to 7 until all the bulbs are planted.
  9. Water and care: Finally, give the newly planted bulbs a thorough watering to settle the soil and promote root growth. Follow any additional care instructions specific to the bulbs you've planted, such as providing adequate water during the growing season and applying fertilizer if needed.


By planting bulbs close together with a bulb planter, you can create a stunning display of flowers that will brighten up your garden and provide a beautiful focal point. Enjoy the process of watching your bulbs transform into vibrant blooms!

Best Bulb Planters of 2024

1
Garden Weasel Bulb Planter 91350 - Multi-Purpose Bulb Planter Tool for Tulip Bulbs - Seed Planter Tool - Grass Plugger Tool - Weather and Rust Resistant - Carbon Steel

Rating is 5 out of 5

Garden Weasel Bulb Planter 91350 - Multi-Purpose Bulb Planter Tool for Tulip Bulbs - Seed Planter Tool - Grass Plugger Tool - Weather and Rust Resistant - Carbon Steel

  • MULTI-PURPOSE TOOL: Get ready for the season and easily plant spring and fall bulbs, annuals, ground cover, and vegetables. The stand and plant tool digs the perfect size hole and gives you the correct planting depth every time.
  • EASY TO USE: With a long handle, there's no need to bend or stoop, reducing overall fatigue. Step on the footplate, press the blade into the ground, remove soil, add the bulbs for planting, release the dirt back into the hole and tamp down.
  • POINTED BLADE: The sharp blade and pointed tip construction allow the ground digger hand tool to quickly and effortlessly enter and lift the soil out of the earth. It enables you to plant in half the time of standard spade digging.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: This convenient and sturdy seedling planter is fabricated from carbon steel and is rust and water-resistant. It has a comfortable non-slip T-bar grip, weighs less than 3 lbs, comes fully assembled, and is 40" long.
  • GARDEN WEASEL: Specializing in professional-grade, ergonomically designed, multi-use garden tools. Our products make gardening by hand easier than ever. Garden Weasel tools are so tough that they are backed with a lifetime limited warranty.
2
ProPlugger 5-in-1 Lawn and Garden Tool, Bulb Planter, Weeder or Weeding Tool, Sod Plugger, Annual Planter, Soil Test Probe

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

ProPlugger 5-in-1 Lawn and Garden Tool, Bulb Planter, Weeder or Weeding Tool, Sod Plugger, Annual Planter, Soil Test Probe

  • WATCH OUR VIDEO - Click the video to see the ProPlugger in action.
  • PLANT LIKE A PRO – Step, twist, pull and you’re ready to plant. Dig 2-1/8” diameter planting holes quickly, one after another, from a comfortable standing position. Soil gets stored in the tool as you work and empties by turning the tool upside down. Depth Rings (included) allow you to consistently dig perfect planting holes at 2", 4" and when no depth ring is used, even 6" deep. *Avoid digging in dry or overly saturated soil.
  • MULTI-USE GARDEN TOOL – Plant your garden favorites! Spring and fall bulbs, annuals, ground covers, vegetables and more. Makes a great lawn and sod plugger (Not Recommended For St. Augustine Grass), weeding tool, soil sample tool and drip-edge fertilizing tool.
  • TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PLANTING – The ProPlugger 5-IN-1 Planting Tool allows you to work from a standing position, saving your back and knees. Comfortable, sturdy hand grips are helpful for seniors or those with mild arthritis.
  • MADE IN THE USA of durable all welded carbon steel. Money Back Guarantee – 100% Customer Satisfaction
3
Jardineer Bulb Planter Tool - Long Handle Bulb Planter with Small Bulb Planter Set, Saw-Tooth Bulb Transplanter for Quick Dig. Durable Bulb and Garden Planter Steel Handle, Ideal Bulb Planting Tool

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Jardineer Bulb Planter Tool - Long Handle Bulb Planter with Small Bulb Planter Set, Saw-Tooth Bulb Transplanter for Quick Dig. Durable Bulb and Garden Planter Steel Handle, Ideal Bulb Planting Tool

  • 【3Pcs Bulb Planter Tool】- This bulb planter set comes with long handle bulb planter, small bulb planter and dirt-proof gloves. Step and twist to pull out plugs, quickly make rows of consistant holes in 3" dia for your bulbs.
  • 【Saw-Tooth Blade - Easy Plug Bulb Planter】- Bulb planter tool with serrated blade, dig into soils and lawns easier to make plugs (the next plug pushes the previous plug out automatically). Powder coated steel construction of this bulb transplanter is built to last.
  • 【Large Foot Plate for Safety & Extra Down Force】- Long handle bulb planter with wider foot plate easily maximizes force with your body weight, brings optimal digging safety and performance. Avoid digging in dry or overly saturated soil.
  • 【Save Your Back in Various Bulb Planting】- This long handle bulb planter allows you to plant ALL KINDS OF BULBS and bedding plants from a comfortable standing position, such as tulips, crocus, dahlias, gladiolus, lilies and most bedding plants are easy to plant at the perfect depth.
  • 【Order with Confidence】- Jardineer is devoted to providing reliable product. Customer satisfaction is always our pursuit. Whatever problem you meet about this bulb planter set, please contact us, we will help you solve it.
4
Dewayna Bulb Planter Tool, 6 Inches Depth Mark Hand Bulb Planter, Non-Bending Stainless Steel Bulb Planter Digger, Garden Bulb Transplanter with Comfortable Grip Wooden Handle for Tulip and Daffodils

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Dewayna Bulb Planter Tool, 6 Inches Depth Mark Hand Bulb Planter, Non-Bending Stainless Steel Bulb Planter Digger, Garden Bulb Transplanter with Comfortable Grip Wooden Handle for Tulip and Daffodils

  • 【10 × Efficiency Saves Your Time】This bulb planter makes planting go faster than digging with a regular shovel, just push down and twist, and up comes the dirt leaving a perfect hole of whatever depth you desire. Save a lot of digging time and you can easily plant 150 bulbs in an hour more efficiently than using a hand shovel to plant 15 bulbs in an hour.
  • 【Easy-to-Read Measurement Markings】The English scale with 1 to 6-inch depth marks on the outside of the tulip bulb planter tool helps to maintain a consistent depth. No other tools or measuring devices were needed which make all your bulbs are planted at the right depths.
  • 【High-Quality Metal Resists Bending】This bulb planting tool is made of thicker stainless steel, which has strong compression and corrosion resistance and is more sturdy and durable, which means it doesn't bend when you push it into the ground. It has sharp edges on the bottom, which can easily cut through heavy soil in your garden.
  • 【Comfortable Grip Wooden Handle】The handle of garden tool bulb planter (made of FSC-approved wood) is designed in an ergonomic streamline, which fits the natural shape of the hand when holding and using, which helps to provide comfort and good posture when kneeling to plant small bulbs, making the gardening process more comfortable and labor-saving.
  • 【Lifetime Warranty】We offer a 100% lifetime warranty on all bulb planters, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our garden tools during use, we will provide you with a satisfactory solution within 24 hours.
5
Colwelt Bulb Planter Tool Long Handle, Serrated Base Gardening Bulb Transplanter with Soft Grip, Heavy Duty Long Handled Bulb Planter Sod Plugger for Digging Holes to Plant Tulips, Iris, Daffodils

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Colwelt Bulb Planter Tool Long Handle, Serrated Base Gardening Bulb Transplanter with Soft Grip, Heavy Duty Long Handled Bulb Planter Sod Plugger for Digging Holes to Plant Tulips, Iris, Daffodils

  • ADD CHEERY BULBS TO YOUR PLANTINGS -- yes, this bulb planter tool long handle will be the best assistant for your planting career. It digs perfect holes for tulips, crocus, dahlias, gladiolus, lilies, or any other spring flower bulbs and most bedding plants(Dig Holes: 3-1/2'' dia, Max 4-7/10'' depth). Adding cheery bulbs to your plantings will help to herald the spring!
  • STEP, TWIST, PULL AND READY -- get this gardening bulb transplanter, planting job will be a piece of cake. The long handled bulb planter is easy to install within minutes, and then step, twist, pull and you are ready to plant. Dig 3-1/2” diameter planting holes quickly, one after another, from a comfortable standing position(avoid digging in dry or overly saturated soil).
  • PLANT LIKE A PRO -- this sod plugger includes a serrated base which helps it penetrate the stony soil easier. The special TWO-PEDALS design makes planting job efficient. Foot Pedal helps you apply max. downward force with your body weight, bring optimal digging performance. Then step and push the Raised Pedal, the soil core will drop out automatically and easily.
  • PLATING IN A STANDING POSITION -- no doubt, this bulb planter tool will take the pain out of your planting. The long handle design prevents excessive bending, allowing you to work from a standing position. Saving you time and your back! The soft T-style grip handle also provide extra comfort for you.
  • ORDER WITH CONFIDENCE -- this bulb planter tool is made of powder coated steel, heavy-duty and rust-resistant, which can hold up over the years. Customer satisfaction is always our pursuit. Whatever problem you meet, you can contact us.
6
Altdorff 5-in-1 Lawn and Garden Tool, Updated Bulb Planter Long Handle for Digging, Weeding, Soil Sampler, Transplanting, Sod Plugger

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Altdorff 5-in-1 Lawn and Garden Tool, Updated Bulb Planter Long Handle for Digging, Weeding, Soil Sampler, Transplanting, Sod Plugger

  • 5-IN-1 PLANTING TOOL- The garden tool is not just a long bulb planter, it's also a 5-in-1 lawn tool. It can work as a weeder, sod plugger, grass plugger tool, hole diggers and bulb planter. You won't agonize over having to carry all your yard tools with you.
  • HOW TO USE BULB PLANTER- Step, twist, pull and you’re ready to plant. Step down the middle pedal, you can control how deep want to go into the dirt. Step down the right pedal effortlessly release your soil. The 5-in-1 planting tool allows you to work from a standing position, saving your back and knees.
  • IDEAL SIZE AND WIDE-USE - Our bulb planter is 39 inches tall, 11 inches wide, T-handle, and weighs 3 pounds. Quickly dig out a 3.5-inch diameter planting hole. Many bulbs can be grown in short time, and plants and flowers can be transplanted.
  • HEAVY DUTY SOD OR GRASS PLUGGER - The garden tool is made of iron with powder coating on the surface. It has strong weather resistance, rust resistance, and durability. This bulb planter tool has two rows of bolts for stability. You can use this 5-in-1 lawn and garden tool anywhere in your yard.
  • AFTER-SALE SERVICE: Whatever questions you have about our long hand bulb planter, please let us know. There is no limit of time or space. We will serve you until you are satisfied.
7
Walden Backyards Perfect Planter - Long Handle Bulb Transplanter for Planting Flowers - Heavy Duty Garden Tool for Digging & Refilling Holes

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Walden Backyards Perfect Planter - Long Handle Bulb Transplanter for Planting Flowers - Heavy Duty Garden Tool for Digging & Refilling Holes

  • HEAVY DUTY - The Perfect Planter is made of durable, high-quality materials and engineered to withstand frequent use. The bulb planter’s exceptional strength allows you to plant bulbs effortlessly while ensuring years of reliable performance.
  • COMFORTABLE DESIGN - Our bulb transplanter is equipped with a long, comfortable handle that provides a firm and ergonomic grip. The gardening tool allows you to plant bulbs quickly and easily without bending or kneeling, saving you time and effort.
  • MULTI-PURPOSE - Our versatile planter can easily plant spring and fall flower bulbs, annuals, perennials, and tree seedlings. The bulb digger cuts precise, perfectly-sized holes in both normal and moist soil that always have the correct depth and never cave in. It also functions as a sod-plugging tool!
  • EASY TO USE - Our planter tool is easy to use for planting bulbs in all gardens. With a lightweight and convenient design, the Perfect Planter provides optimal control and stability during planting sessions. Conveniently hangs for effortless storage!
  • TRUSTED BRAND - Walden Products is a leading supplier of backyarding accessories, and offers premium yard tools, outside fire pits, fire grates, campfire fire starters, fireplace pokers, ash scoops, and more.
8
Bulb Planter Garden Sod Plugger with Ergonomic Masual Handle,Heavy Duty Planting Tools for Digging Holes to Plant Spring Flowers Bulbs,Bedding Plants,Tulips,Crocus,Dahlias,Gladiolus,Lilies

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Bulb Planter Garden Sod Plugger with Ergonomic Masual Handle,Heavy Duty Planting Tools for Digging Holes to Plant Spring Flowers Bulbs,Bedding Plants,Tulips,Crocus,Dahlias,Gladiolus,Lilies

  • SOIL PLUG SLIDES OUT FROM SIDE: You NEEDN’T turn the tool upside down to let the soil plugs slid out and empty the planter! Our upgraded bulb planter makes perfect soil plugs drop out automatically and continuously from the side. Double the bulbs in half the time.
  • NO SOIL STUCK IN: You NEEDN’T manually remove clumps of soil stuck in the tube periodically! There is no soil or dirt got stored or stuck in the tool when you dig with the closed slant design of the tube. The process you make soil or sod plugs is a process of emptying the tool.
  • MULTIUSE GARDEN TOOL:Totally awesome lawn plugger, root remover, weed puller, bulb planter! This garden bulb planter tool makes perfect holes for planting bulbs and bedding spring flowers. Also ideal for transplanting lawns and weeding fields, especially when it comes to transplanting crops, it saves you more time.
  • NO PAIN & NO BREAKING: With an ergonomic height of 33.5” and foam padded handle, you can work from a standing position without body hurts, back knee pains or blisters. Rust free power coated steel construction makes this bulb planter tool stands up to millions of bulbs’ planting and not breaking. NOTE: Each bulb planter enjoys 12-month warranty, replacement or refund will be arranged once we receive your message.
  • EASY TO USE: Step,twist,pull and ready to plant! Dig perfect 2/4/6 inches deep holes for tulips, crocus, dahlias, gladiolus, lilies, or any other spring flower bulbs and most bedding plants with each pick.Only one person can complete large-scale planting.We recommend moistening the soil before using our planters for easier and faster digging


How to prevent bulb rot or disease when using a bulb planter?

To prevent bulb rot or disease when using a bulb planter, here are some steps you can follow:

  1. Choose healthy bulbs: Select bulbs that are firm, plump, and free from any signs of decay or damage. Avoid bulbs that feel squishy or have moldy patches.
  2. Prepare a well-drained soil: Bulbs are more prone to rot in soil that retains excessive moisture. Improve the drainage of the planting area by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil.
  3. Ensure proper depth: Bulbs should be planted at the recommended depth according to the specific plant variety. Planting too deep may lead to poor root development and increased susceptibility to rot. Most bulbs require a planting depth of two to three times their height.
  4. Use proper planting techniques: When using a bulb planter, make sure to follow the instructions to ensure precise depth and avoid damaging the bulb. Place the bulb in the hole created by the planter and gently press it down to eliminate air pockets.
  5. Add bulb compost or fungicide: Before placing the bulb in the hole, you can dust or dip it in a bulb compost or fungicide solution. These products help protect the bulb against rot-causing organisms and can aid in root development.
  6. Avoid overwatering: Bulbs generally require a moderate amount of water during their growth period. However, excessive moisture can lead to bulb rot. Water the bulbs immediately after planting and then only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
  7. Maintain proper spacing: Avoid overcrowding the bulbs since this can increase the likelihood of disease. Follow the recommended spacing guidelines for the chosen bulb variety.
  8. Remove decaying foliage: After the bulbs have finished flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Once the leaves have turned yellow and withered, gently remove them, being careful not to damage the bulbs. This helps prevent disease from spreading from the foliage back to the bulb.


By following these precautions, you can minimize the chances of bulb rot or disease and increase the success rate of your bulb plantings.


How deep should the bulb planter go into the soil?

The bulb planter should go into the soil to a depth that allows the bulb to be planted at the recommended depth for the specific type of bulb. Generally, bulbs should be planted at a depth that is about two to three times their diameter. However, it is best to refer to the specific planting instructions provided by the bulb manufacturer for the most accurate depth requirement.


What is the lifespan of a bulb planter?

The lifespan of a bulb planter can vary depending on the quality of the materials used and how well it is cared for. A good quality bulb planter that is well maintained can last for several years or even decades. However, if a bulb planter is made of lower quality materials or not properly cleaned and stored after each use, its lifespan may be shorter.


How to plant multiple bulbs close together with a bulb planter?

Planting multiple bulbs close together with a bulb planter can create a beautiful and dense display of flowers. Here's a step-by-step guide to doing it:

  1. Prepare the soil: Choose a suitable spot in your garden or flower bed that receives adequate sunlight and has well-drained soil. Remove any weeds or stones from the area and ensure the soil is loose and easy to work with.
  2. Measure and mark the planting area: Decide the spacing you want between the bulbs based on their recommended planting distance. For example, if the recommended spacing is 4 inches, measure and mark the planting locations accordingly.
  3. Consider bulb depth: Most bulbs require being planted at a specific depth. Check the bulb packaging or do some research to determine the depth for the specific bulbs you are planting. Typically, larger bulbs are planted deeper than smaller ones.
  4. Insert the bulb planter: Using the bulb planter, push it into the soil at the marked location. Twist it slightly to create a hole deep enough for the bulb(s) you are planting. Make sure the bulb planter goes down to the desired depth.
  5. Place the bulbs: Put one or multiple bulbs (as recommended for that specific type) into the hole created by the bulb planter. The pointed end or shoot should be facing upward. If you are planting multiple bulbs, make sure they do not touch each other or the sides of the hole.
  6. Cover the bulbs: Once the bulbs are in place, carefully remove the bulb planter from the soil, leaving the bulbs in the hole. Use your hands or a small garden trowel to cover the bulbs with soil, gently firming it down to eliminate any air pockets.
  7. Repeat the process: Move on to the next marked spot and repeat steps 4 to 6 until all the bulbs have been planted. Remember to maintain the recommended spacing between each bulb.
  8. Water and mulch: After planting, give the area a thorough watering to help settle the soil and provide moisture to the bulbs. Applying a layer of mulch over the planted area can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
  9. Regular care: Monitor the bulbs' progress and provide regular care as needed, such as watering and fertilizing according to the specific requirements of the bulb types you have planted.


By following these steps, you can efficiently plant multiple bulbs close together using a bulb planter, ensuring a stunning display of flowers in your garden.


What is the benefit of planting bulbs closer together?

Planting bulbs closer together can provide several benefits:

  1. Greater visual impact: Planting bulbs closer together creates a denser display of flowers, resulting in a more impactful and visually stunning garden. This can be particularly effective for smaller spaces or when trying to create a more concentrated burst of color.
  2. Increased color saturation: Planting bulbs closer together allows for a more vibrant and saturated display of colors. The intensity of the blooms is enhanced when they are grouped closely, which can create a more striking and eye-catching effect.
  3. Fuller and more natural appearance: When bulbs are planted closer together, the foliage and flowers grow more densely, creating a fuller and more natural-looking garden bed. This can help create a lush and abundant appearance, mimicking the look of wildflower meadows.
  4. Suppresses weed growth: Planting bulbs closer together can also help suppress the growth of weeds. The dense growth of the bulbs and their foliage shades the soil, making it difficult for weed seeds to receive sufficient sunlight to germinate. This can save time and effort in weed control.
  5. Efficient use of space: Planting bulbs closer together allows for a more efficient use of space. This is especially useful in smaller gardens or containers, where maximizing the number of blooms in a limited area is desired. It also allows for more bulbs to be planted in a given flowerbed, resulting in a greater variety and more diverse display of flowers.


It is important to consider the specific needs and requirements of each bulb variety before planting them close together, as some bulbs may require more space to grow and spread properly.

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