Transplanting bulbs using a bulb planter is a relatively simple process that can help you seamlessly move flowering bulbs from one location to another. Here's an explanation of how to do it:
- Select the right time: Bulbs are typically transplanted during the dormant season when they are not actively growing. For most bulbs, this is usually in the late summer or early fall. However, pay attention to the specific requirements of the bulbs you are transplanting.
- Prepare the new location: Choose a suitable spot in your garden that receives the optimal amount of sunlight for the specific bulb variety. Make sure the soil is loose, well-drained, and amended with compost for better nutrition. Prepare the area by removing any weeds or debris.
- Dig a hole: With a bulb planter in hand, locate the area in your garden where you want to transplant the bulbs. Firmly press the bulb planter into the ground, pushing down and rocking it gently to create a hole of the appropriate depth (typically three times the size of the bulb).
- Lift and separate the bulbs: Carefully dig up the bulbs you wish to transplant using a garden fork or shovel. Be cautious not to damage the bulbs or their roots. If there are multiple bulbs growing in a clump, gently separate them for individual planting.
- Place the bulbs: Take each bulb and place it in the hole you created with the bulb planter. Orient them with the pointed end facing upwards. Ensure that the bulb sits at the proper depth according to the planting instructions provided with the bulbs.
- Backfill the hole: Gently push the soil back into the hole using the bulb planter or your hands, ensuring that the bulb is covered with soil. Be careful not to pack the soil too tightly, as it should be loose to allow the roots to establish easily.
- Water the area: After transplanting all the bulbs, water the newly planted area thoroughly to help settle the soil around the bulbs and eliminate any air pockets. Make sure the soil is evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Mulch and protect: Apply a layer of mulch, such as shredded leaves or bark, around the transplanted bulbs. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and protects the bulbs during winter.
Remember to keep an eye on your transplanted bulbs as they establish themselves in their new location. Follow the specific care instructions for each bulb variety regarding watering, fertilizing, and additional maintenance. With time, your transplanted bulbs should thrive and reward you with beautiful blooms.
Best Bulb Planters of 2025
1
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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
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WATCH OUR VIDEO - Click the video to see the ProPlugger in action.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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MADE IN THE USA of durable all welded carbon steel. Money Back Guarantee – 100% Customer Satisfaction
3
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
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【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.
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【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.
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【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.
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【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.
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【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
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
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【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.
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【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.
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【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.
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【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.
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【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
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
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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!
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
What is the typical lifespan of a bulb planter, and when should it be replaced?
The typical lifespan of a bulb planter can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the tool, frequency of use, and the type of soil conditions it is used in. A good quality bulb planter can last several years with proper care and maintenance.
However, over time, the cutting edges of the bulb planter may become dull and less effective, making it harder to create clean, precise holes for planting bulbs. The handles or other components of the planter may also wear out or become loose with continuous use.
As a general guideline, if you notice that the bulb planter is struggling to cut through the soil or is not functioning efficiently despite cleaning and sharpening, it may be time to replace it. Additionally, if any parts are broken, bent, or damaged beyond repair, it's a good idea to invest in a new bulb planter for optimal performance during planting.
What is the process for cleaning and disinfecting a bulb planter?
To clean and disinfect a bulb planter, follow these steps:
- Remove any excess soil or debris: Use a brush or your hands to remove soil or debris from the bulb planter. Make sure to remove it thoroughly to prepare for cleaning.
- Soak the planter in warm, soapy water: Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a mild dish soap. Place the bulb planter in the soapy water and let it soak for about 15-30 minutes. This will help to loosen any remaining dirt or residue.
- Scrub the planter: After soaking, use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the planter, paying special attention to any areas with residue or stains. Scrub both the inside and outside of the planter to ensure a thorough cleaning.
- Rinse with clean water: Once you've scrubbed the planter, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Make sure to rinse it inside and out.
- Disinfect the bulb planter: To disinfect the planter, you can use a diluted bleach solution. Prepare a mixture of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Fill a basin or sink with the solution and soak the planter for about 10 minutes. This helps kill any bacteria or pathogens that may be present.
- Rinse again: After disinfecting, rinse the planter once more with clean water to remove any bleach residue.
- Dry the planter: Allow the bulb planter to air dry completely before using it again. Placing it in direct sunlight or using a clean towel or cloth to dry it can help speed up the process.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your bulb planter is clean and disinfected, ready for future use.
How to transplant bulbs with a bulb planter in small garden spaces?
Transplanting bulbs with a bulb planter in small garden spaces is relatively easy. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you:
- Select the area for transplanting: Choose a suitable location in your garden with enough sunlight, soil drainage, and appropriate conditions for the specific type of bulbs you want to transplant.
- Prepare the soil: Prior to transplanting, prepare the soil by removing weeds, stones, and other debris that may hinder growth. Loosen the soil to allow easy penetration of the bulb planter.
- Choose the right bulb planter: There are various bulb planter designs available, including hand tools and long-handled ones. Select a bulb planter suitable for small garden spaces. Consider the handle length, width, and depth of the planter.
- Dig holes: With the bulb planter in hand, press the sharp end into the soil, using your foot or body weight if necessary. Depress the planter to the desired depth, typically indicated on the tool. Avoid going too deep, as this may affect the bulb's growth.
- Remove soil plugs: Once the bulb planter is in the ground, gently twist it back and forth to create a clean hole. When pulling the tool out of the ground, soil plugs will come with it. Set these plugs aside to use later.
- Place the bulbs: Take your bulbs and position them in the holes created by the bulb planter. Be mindful of the recommended planting depth and spacing guidelines specific to your bulbs. Depending on the size of your garden, you can transplant multiple bulbs simultaneously.
- Cover the bulbs: Using the soil plugs you set aside earlier, place them back into the holes to cover the bulbs completely. This will ensure they are planted at the appropriate depth and provide enough soil for growth.
- Water and mulch: After transplanting, give the bulbs a good watering to help settle the soil around them and promote root establishment. Apply a layer of mulch over the transplanted bulbs to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
- Care and maintenance: Monitor the bulbs regularly and provide necessary care, such as watering, fertilizing, and protection from pests or extreme weather conditions, depending on the specific requirements of the bulbs you transplanted.
Remember to follow the specific instructions for each type of bulb you transplant, as some may have specific requirements, including planting depth, spacing, and care.
How to care for a bulb planter to ensure longevity?
To ensure the longevity of a bulb planter, here are some care tips:
- Cleaning: After each use, make sure to clean the bulb planter thoroughly. Clear out any dirt or debris that might have accumulated on the blades or inside the planting chamber. This will prevent any potential contamination and ensure smooth functioning.
- Regular maintenance: Check for any signs of wear and tear in the bulb planter. Look for blade sharpness, handle stability, or any loose parts. If necessary, tighten any screws or replace worn-out parts to maintain its effectiveness.
- Lubrication: Periodically lubricate the moving parts of the bulb planter, such as the joint between the handle and the planting chamber. Use a light oil or silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust or corrosion.
- Protection: Store the bulb planter in a clean, dry place, away from moisture or direct sunlight. Consider using a tool shed or hanging it on a wall to prevent any damage or accidental knocks.
- Proper use: Use the bulb planter according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid excessive force when plunging the planter into the soil, as this can strain the mechanism or bend the blades.
- Avoid soil buildup: To prevent soil buildup inside the planter, tap the tool against a hard surface or give it a gentle shake after each use. This will help dislodge any soil stuck in the chamber or on the blades.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures: Bulb planters should not be exposed to extreme cold or heat as it may affect their structural integrity or sharpness. Avoid leaving them outside during freezing temperatures or direct sunlight.
By following these care tips, you can ensure the longevity of your bulb planter, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and ease of planting bulbs for years to come.
How to use a bulb planter for transplanting bulbs?
Using a bulb planter for transplanting bulbs can make the process quicker and easier. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a bulb planter:
- Prepare the soil: Before using the bulb planter, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or spade. Remove any weeds or debris that may hinder the process.
- Choose the right spot: Select a suitable location for planting the bulbs. Consider factors like sunlight, soil drainage, and spacing requirements for the specific type of bulb you are transplanting.
- Insert the bulb planter into the soil: Hold the bulb planter firmly in your hands. Position it where you want to transplant the bulb and gently push it into the soil. Apply a bit of pressure to ensure it goes deep enough.
- Twist and lift: Once the bulb planter is inserted, give it a slight twist clockwise and anti-clockwise. This will help loosen the soil and create a hole for the bulb. Lift the bulb planter out of the soil, keeping it upright.
- Prepare the bulb: If using a larger-sized bulb, you may need to remove any excessive roots or shoots. However, leave smaller bulbs intact. Ensure the bulbs are in good condition, free from mold or any other signs of damage.
- Place the bulb in the planter: Take the bulb and carefully position it into the hole created by the bulb planter. Ensure the pointy end is facing upward, as this is where the stem will emerge from.
- Fill the hole: Gently press the soil-filled bulb planter back into the hole, covering the bulb completely. Be cautious not to damage the bulb. Avoid compacting the soil too tightly, as it should still allow for proper drainage.
- Repeat the process: Move to the next transplant spot and repeat steps 3–7 until all the bulbs are planted.
- Water and maintain: After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to help settle the soil and provide necessary moisture. Follow the specific watering instructions for the type of bulb you are transplanting.
Using a bulb planter can make transplanting bulbs more efficient, especially when dealing with a larger number of bulbs. Just remember to choose the right size bulb planter for your bulbs, and follow proper planting depth and spacing guidelines to ensure successful growth.
