Expert: Long Island Gardener - 12/22/2006

Question
Hello! I live in zone 5, probably zone 4b (I live in a valley, zip: 13332). In late October we had our first killing frosts; two nights were down in the teens. So that weekend I planted several bulbs, some tulips, alliums and lilies. My question is with the unseasonably warm weather we have had (I believe only four nights since late October have been below 30 degrees F, and no days have), is there a concern for the bulbs? Do I have to worry about them sprouting prematurely? Is there a freeze-thaw concern with the ground? I am sure colder weather is ahead for January and February, but according to the National Weather Service, this has been a top five mildest fall since recorded weather began. Thank you in advance for your time and effort!

Answer
Your Zone 5 is perfect for hardy bulbs, Christian.  Although the climate is certainly warming up, I must point out that fluctuations in temperature have been a problem for gardeners since time began.  If you have planted your bulbs deep enough, they will not sprout when the weather warms prematurely - which it will, you can count on it surely as the sun rises and sets.

But if you see the sprouts of any of those Alliums, Lilies and Tulips, get yourself some leaves and soil and mulch accordingly to keep them underground and away from the warm weather.

Freeze-thaw is not a problem for bulbs.  Moisture however will cause all kinds of trouble.  We always insist on excellent drainage when we plant these.

I wish I had more to tell you on this, but it's really that simple.  Plant deep and take the drainage matter seriously.  Mulch if you haven't planted deep enough - it's Plan B.  Remove the Mulch in spring (carefully!) and watch those babies bloom.