In order for onions to grow and bloom early in the new season, they must be planted in good time. Can you plant flower bulbs in January? Here we explain what you should know if you want to plant flower bulbs in winter.
It is certainly possible to plant some bulbs in winter temperatures, but it is important to note that summer-flowering bulbs cannot withstand low temperatures. Spring bloomers such as tulips, daffodils or hyacinths can easily be planted in January in frost-free soil.
Which temperatures are suitable for winter planting of flower bulbs
Of course, if it's -10 degrees outside, you can't do any gardening. But at 0 – -3 it is definitely possible. Such temperatures are not fatal to onions. Onions can now be planted:
- in open ground
- into a basket
How to plant flower bulbs in open ground in winter
How to properly plant flower bulbs outdoors? It's not that difficult. However, it is desirable to carry out some preparatory work first. It is best to dig a basket for bulbous flowers in the ground. You can do this in October when it is warm outside and the ground is soft. Such a basket is then covered with soil and compost. This means the ground doesn't freeze as much; it is warmer than the surrounding ground. This increases the likelihood that the bulbs will root successfully.
If you have not yet been able to prepare for planting, do not be discouraged. There are still warm places where bulbs root more easily. This includes digging up the ground next to fruit trees. Also suitable locations above water wells or supply lines. It is always warmer in such areas and the snow starts to melt earlier.
Also interesting:Which trees should be cut in winter: January is the best time for pruning the following perennials
Preparation of the onions
Before planting, the bulbs should be picked and prepared. This should happen in any case, but above all,when planted in winter. Good, strong onions have the strength to survive even at low temperatures.
Don't buy onions if you know they are not viable. The flower bulbs should be prepared before planting. Treat them with an antibacterial agent. This will rid the upper layers of the bulb of pests and ensure its safety in the soil, at least for the time being.
Preparation of the soil
To plant onions, you need to prepare good, loose soil. It should be warm. Take care of fertilizers immediately. Compost is best.
The easiest method for planting flower bulbs
Dig a hole in the ground. Pour the prepared soil into the bottom of the hole. After planting, cover the bulbs with the same soil you prepared earlier. This way they will be surrounded by good, unfrozen soil. This increases the likelihood that they will root well.
At what depth should onions be planted in winter? As a rule, dig a hole for 20 centimeters. This depth is optimal because the flower bulbs planted this way do not freeze. At the same time, they can germinate at this depth in spring. You can cover the planted bulbs in winter. To do this, use cardboard boxes, branches, polyethylene and other items from which you can make an insulating material.
Planting in a basket or vase
How do you properly plant flower bulbs in a basket in winter? It's easy and quick. You don't have to expect frozen ground here yet. This means that even the latest planting is possible if you don't have the bulbsplant in the open ground.
You can buy bulb baskets for this planting. They are very practical to use. Ordinary vases or even vegetable boxes are also suitable. Fill the container with good potting soil. The soil should be mixed with humus or a small amount of compost, that is, it should have nutritional value. The soil should also have good air and water permeability.
Choose the onions. The better they are, the more successful the planting will be. How deep should I plant bulbs in a vase for the winter? The pits can be dug 15 centimeters deep. After planting the bulbs in a box or vase, place them in an unheated room. In case of frost, the flowers are covered with insulation. Polyethylene or old jackets can be used as insulation material.
Also read:5 flowers to plant in January: these beauties provide lush blooms throughout spring and summer
