There’s something deeply satisfying about watching the first signs of spring emerge after a long winter. For flower lovers, nothing signals the change of seasons quite like the cheerful blooms of Daffodils and Tulips. But to enjoy that burst of color, planning starts now, long before the snow melts and birds return.

If you're wondering when to plant tulips or searching for a reliable daffodil planting guide, you’re in the right place. Planting fall bulbs for spring is one of the easiest and most rewarding garden projects of the year.

Why Plant in Fall?

Tulips and daffodils are hardy spring-flowering bulbs that require a winter chill to produce their best blooms. Planting in the fall gives them enough time to establish roots before the ground freezes, setting them up for a healthy spring show.

As a general rule, fall bulbs for spring bloom should be planted after nighttime temperatures stay consistently below 60°F but before the ground is frozen. For most U.S. zones, this means planting from late September through mid-November.

Choosing the Right Spot

Both Tulips and Daffodils prefer full sun and well-draining soil. If your garden tends to stay soggy, consider raised beds or container planting. Mixing compost into your planting area will help improve drainage and nourish your bulbs for the months ahead.

Pro tip: plant in groups of 10 or more bulbs for a more dramatic effect. Scatter them in clusters rather than rows for a natural look.

How to Plant Tulips and Daffodils

Use this step-by-step guide to get your bulbs in the ground the right way:

1. Dig a hole 6–8 inches deep for tulips, and about 4–6 inches deep for daffodils.
2. Place the bulb pointy side up.
3. Space tulips 4–5 inches apart, and daffodils 3–6 inches apart.
4. Cover with soil and water thoroughly after planting.
5. Mulch lightly to help insulate against early frost.

Top Varieties to Plant This Fall

Looking for inspiration? At Nagel Glads, we offer a curated collection of tulip and daffodil bulbs that are perfect for fall planting. Here are a few customer favorites:

🌷 Tulip Favorites:

• Don Quichotte Triumph Tulips – A rich pink bloom that adds elegance to garden beds.
• Ile de France Triumph Tulips – Classic red tulips with bold, velvety petals.
• Novi Sun Darwin Tulips – Bright golden blooms with strong stems.
• Foxtrot Double Tulip Mix – Soft pastels and ruffled textures for a romantic touch.
• Prince Tulip Mix – A charming combination of short-stemmed tulips in varied hues.

🌼 Daffodil Essentials:

• Tete a Tete Daffodils – Early bloomers that are great for borders and containers.
• Replete Pink Daffodils – Double blooms with blush pink centers.
• Dick Wilden Daffodils – Frilly yellow petals with a full, showy form.
• Ice King Daffodils – Creamy white and yellow ruffles bring regal charm.
• Mixed Daffodils – A beautiful blend for effortless variety in your garden.

When to Order Your Bulbs

Now is the time to place your bulb orders! Fall planting windows are short, and popular varieties sell out quickly. At Nagel Glads, we ship bulbs at the ideal time for your planting zone so they arrive ready to go in the ground.

Final Tips for Fall Bulb Success

• Water well after planting and then only as needed if the weather stays dry.
• Mark where you planted to avoid accidental digging in early spring.
• Pair early, mid, and late-blooming varieties to extend your spring flower season.

Let Your Spring Garden Start Today

Planning ahead is the secret to a vibrant spring display. Whether you're a first-time gardener or a seasoned pro, there’s no better time to stock up on tulips and daffodils than right now. Shop our full collection of Tulip Bulbs and Daffodil Bulbs to get started.

🌱 Looking for a shortcut? Try our bestselling Triumph Tulip Mix and Mixed Daffodils for an easy way to fill your garden with spring cheer.

Happy planting!