I have a load of spring bulbs that have been fed in late spring with a good sprinkling of chicken poop to help build them up for next spring. What I want to know is the best time to take them out of the tubs to dry out (ha ha) for planting later in the autumn? Anyone any idea? Is it too late? Would I be best to leave them in the tubs?
Once the tops have dried off then you can remove them and store safely until replanting. Unless they are Snowdrops or Fritillaria meleagris which should not be dried off at all.
Thanks Eric, I knew that I could rely on you for an answer. ;)
Not just snowdrops and fritillaries, there are a lot of bulbs which can't stand drying out. Daffs and tulips are safe.
Well, ok, amended. Naked bulbs cannot stand being dried out, those with skins can.
I dig them up and pile them in plastic plantpots and fill with compost just leave them until autumn and when the plants in my tubs are ready for the compost heap I use the same compost and replant them for the spring. I always replace the compost after they have flowered for my new bedding plants. The old stuff is spread around my garden. It never fails.