Bulb gardens, after the blooms fade
Written by Crickets Flowers
What To Do After Your Bulb Planter Finishes Blooming
This is the part customers always ask — and it’s actually super simple.
1. Let the foliage die back naturally
Don’t cut it early! The leaves gather energy and feed the bulb for next year’s bloom. Once they turn yellow and papery, it’s time.
2. Gently remove the bulbs from the container
Here’s the easiest way:
• Loosen the soil by squeezing the sides of the pot or tapping it.
• Slide the entire root ball out.
• Brush off excess soil (no need to wash).
• Separate the bulbs carefully — they’ll often have little “baby bulbs” attached, which is a bonus for more blooms next year.
3. Inspect for damage
Soft, squishy, or moldy bulbs should be tossed. Only store firm, healthy ones.
4. Dry them out
Lay the bulbs in a single layer in a cool, dry place for 3–5 days.
This prevents rot during storage.
5. Store until fall
Once dry, place bulbs in:
• A paper bag
• A cardboard box
• A mesh bag
• Even an old onion bag
Add a little peat moss or newspaper so they don’t touch each other.
Store them in a cool, dark, and dry spot — think basement, garage, or a closet that stays under 60°F.
6. Replant in late fall
Once those crisp nights start rolling in, it’s planting time again.
Your bulbs will settle in, enjoy their winter nap, and be ready to show off next spring.
