Expert: Laura Walker - 10/30/2004

Question
I live in the Indianapolis area and about two weeks ago, we were having pretty chilly weather (highs in the 50's and evening in the 30's).  I planted a lot of narcissus, grape hyacinth, and tulip bulbs. Of course the weather has been beautiful for the last week (high's in the 70's and the low's in the 50's). I noticed that my narcissus bulbs are beginning to grow. What should I do? Should I try and get more dirt to cover the blooms, or should I just write them off for next spring?  Thank you.

Answer
Diane,
I don't usually plant my bulbs until the end of November and last year I didn't set them out until the first week in Jan.The later you get them in the ground,the better.As long as your ground is not frozen you can set them out.
Since you are farther north than I am I would say late Nov. is the best time for you.
Of course,since they are already in the ground,there really is nothing much you can do except play the waiting game and wait until Spring to see what they do or dig them all back up,which I am sure is frustrating but that is the only 2 choices you have at this point.
I will goiveyou some bulb care websites for more info on this topic.
Good luck!Go to: www.vandycks.com,www.vanbourgondien.com,www.mzbulb.com (aka McClure&Zimmerman),Quality Flower Bulbs,www.dutchgardens.com, White Flower Farm,Jackson & Perkins