The basic rule of thumb is: the hole should be at least 3 times as deep as the width of the bulb. However, rather than painstakingly measuring the diameter of each bulb, there are easier ways to figure out how deep to plant bulbs:
- Most bulbs come with instructions on the package. You could just follow the suggestions on the package.
- Rule of Thumb for Dummies: If the bulb is big (eg. Tulip, Daffodil, Hyacinth), dig the hole about 6 - 8" (15 - 20 cm) deep; if the bulb is small (Crocus, Snowdrop, Scilla, Dwarf Iris, Muscari, Bluebell), dig the hole about 4 - 5" (10 - 12 cm) deep.
It isn't a problem if a bulb is planted an inch or two deeper than recommended. It may take the plant a few days longer to break the surface, but it also gives the bulb a little extra protection if you happen to live in the type of climate where a "false spring" can happen (i.e. the weather warms up, and then the freeze sets in again).
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Last modified: May 5, 2006