Spring is upon us, and with it, the excitement of seeing our gardens come back to life after the long Quebec winter.
To celebrate the equinox, let's dive into the world of spring planting , exploring the five best bulbs to plant in Quebec , the ideal planting techniques and times , as well as advice for those who love seedlings, wildflowers and herbs .
The 5 best bulbs to plant in Quebec
1. Tulips
The quintessential symbol of spring, tulips offer a vibrant palette of colors. They are planted in the fall, ideally in October, at a depth of 15 to 20 cm in well-drained soil. This period allows the bulbs to develop their roots before winter and to bloom majestically in the spring.
2. Daffodils (Narcissus)
Renowned for their cold resistance, daffodils brighten gardens with their yellow and white hues. Like tulips, they are planted in the fall, 15 cm deep. Their main advantage? They are less popular with squirrels and other rodents, which ensures trouble-free flowering.
3. Crocus
Among the first to bloom, often as soon as the snow melts, crocuses bring an early touch of color. They are planted in the fall, at a depth of 5 to 8 cm, and naturalize easily, forming magnificent floral carpets over the years.
4. Hyacinths
Known for their captivating fragrance, hyacinths add an olfactory dimension to your garden. They are planted in the fall, 10 to 15 cm deep, in well-drained soil. Their dense and colorful blooms are a true feast for the senses.
5. Alliums (Ornamental Garlic)
With their spherical inflorescences, alliums add an architectural touch to flowerbeds. They are planted in the fall, 10 to 15 cm deep, and prefer sunny locations. In addition, their distinctive scent helps repel certain garden pests.
Learn more about Floramama &Serres St-Elie.
Seeds, wildflowers and herbs
Spring is also the ideal season to start your seedlings indoors or in a greenhouse, especially for cold-sensitive vegetables and herbs. Wildflowers, on the other hand, can be sown directly in the ground once the risk of frost has passed, usually around the end of May in Quebec. These plantings promote biodiversity and attract pollinators, contributing to the overall health of your garden.
Planting techniques and periods
The key to successful flowering lies in observing proper planting times and techniques. The bulbs mentioned above should be planted in the fall, between mid-September and mid-December, as long as the soil is not deeply frozen. This period allows the bulbs to develop a robust root system before the arrival of winter cold.
Some tips for optimal planting :
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Planting depth : Bury the bulb to a depth equivalent to 2 to 3 times its height. For example, a 5 cm bulb should be planted between 10 and 15 cm deep.
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Spacing : For a harmonious visual effect, space bulbs at least once the bulb width apart between each planting.
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Pest Protection : Squirrels and other rodents may be fond of certain bulbs. To deter them, add pelleted chicken manure or blood meal to the bottom of the planting hole, then cover lightly with soil before placing the bulb in the hole.
Quebec companies to discover for your seeds and bulbs:
To enrich your garden while supporting the local economy, here are some Quebec seed companies and suppliers to mention:
- WH Perron – A leader in the sale of vegetable, herb and bulb seeds tested for the northern climate.
- The Plant Society – Known for its ancestral and hardy varieties, ideal for Quebec gardeners.
- Ecumene Gardens – Offering a wide selection of organic and native seeds.
- Solana Seeds – Small business dedicated to heritage and open-pollinated seeds.
- Le Petit Mas – Specializing in Quebec garlic seeds, but also a fine example of the excellence of local organic products.
Pero's Botanical Collection
To extend the floral experience beyond the garden, Pero's spring collection offers a range of items inspired by nature.
Here are some favorites:
In conclusion
This spring, let the magic of nature transform your garden into a living tableau. By combining proven techniques, creativity, and quality products like those from Pero, you'll create not only a beautiful space but also a place of renewal and sharing. So, fill up on colors, flavors, and stories—and above all, take the time to savor every moment.
