Planting summer-flowering bulbs with a bulb planter is an efficient and straightforward method. Here is an overview of how to do it:
- Select the right bulbs: Choose summer-flowering bulbs that are suitable for your region and growing conditions. Some popular options include lilies, dahlias, gladiolus, begonias, and cannas.
- Prepare the soil: Find a well-drained area in your garden and remove any weeds or debris. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or spade, ensuring it is crumbly and not compacted.
- Dig the hole: Using a bulb planter tool, push it into the soil to create a hole. The depth will vary depending on the type of bulb, so refer to the specific planting instructions on the packaging or do some research.
- Place the bulb: Gently place the bulb into the hole with the pointed side facing up or as specified for that particular bulb. Avoid damaging any roots or sprouts already present.
- Cover the bulb: Use the bulb planter to remove soil from the hole and place it back into the hole to cover the bulb. Firmly press down on the soil to secure it in place.
- Repeat the process: Continue digging holes with the bulb planter at the desired spacing, depending on the bulb's recommended planting distance. Place bulbs in each hole and cover them until all bulbs are planted.
- Watering: Thoroughly water the area after planting to ensure good soil-to-bulb contact and to help settle the soil. Adequate moisture is crucial for the bulbs to establish roots and begin their growth.
- Mulch (optional): Consider applying a layer of organic mulch like straw or wood chips around the newly planted bulbs. Mulch helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and protect bulbs during extreme temperatures.
- Maintenance: Throughout the summer, provide regular watering, especially during dry spells, and monitor for any signs of pests or diseases. Follow specific care instructions for the particular bulbs you planted.
By following these steps, you can successfully plant summer-flowering bulbs using a bulb planter. Enjoy the anticipation of colorful blooms that will enhance your garden throughout the season.
Best Bulb Planters of 2024
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 apply fertilizer to summer-flowering bulbs?
Applying fertilizer to summer-flowering bulbs is an important step to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for growth and flowering. Here are steps to apply fertilizer to summer-flowering bulbs:
- Timing: Apply fertilizer to summer-flowering bulbs in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. This allows the bulbs to absorb the nutrients and promote healthy growth.
- Choose the right fertilizer: Look for a balanced fertilizer with equal or near-equal proportions of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For example, a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 fertilizer would be suitable. These three essential nutrients support various aspects of plant development.
- Prepare the bulbs: Before applying fertilizer, ensure that the bulbs are planted in well-draining soil in a suitable location with adequate sunlight. It's also recommended to remove any weeds or competing plants near the bulbs.
- Measure and mix: Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging to determine the appropriate amount for your bulbs. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the bulbs or encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Add the recommended amount of fertilizer to a watering can or bucket, and fill it with water according to the package instructions.
- Apply the fertilizer: Pour the diluted fertilizer mixture carefully around the base of the bulbs, avoiding direct contact with the foliage or the bulbs themselves. Use a gentle stream to avoid disturbing the bulbs or causing soil erosion. Ensure that the soil is adequately moist prior to applying the fertilizer.
- Water thoroughly: After applying the fertilizer, thoroughly water the soil around the bulbs to allow the nutrients to penetrate the root zone. This helps to distribute the fertilizer evenly and prevents the risk of burning the roots.
- Repeat as necessary: Depending on the specific requirements of your summer-flowering bulbs and the fertilizer you are using, you may need to repeat the application every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for accurate timing and frequency.
Remember, each bulb variety may have specific fertilizer requirements, so it's essential to research the specific needs of your bulbs or consult with a local horticulturist or gardening expert for more personalized advice.
What is the best time to plant summer-flowering bulbs?
The best time to plant summer-flowering bulbs is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. This typically means planting bulbs in late April or early May, depending on your specific climate and region. Planting bulbs at the right time allows them to establish roots and grow before the warmer summer months, leading to healthy and vibrant blooms.
What is the recommended distance between each bulb?
The recommended distance between each bulb can vary depending on the type of bulb being used and the specific lighting needs of the situation. However, as a general guideline, a spacing of about 6 to 8 feet between bulbs is often recommended for standard residential lighting. This spacing helps to ensure adequate and even lighting throughout the space. It is always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's recommendations or consult with a lighting professional for specific guidance.