Flower Garden Guide
A seasonal guide to vibrant blooms and garden care in Renaissance Lakes.
Spring bulbs in Atlanta are generally planted in the fall. Because our winters are mild, some varieties require a bit of extra help to produce the vibrant blooms you expect.
Planting Instructions
Where to Plant
Choose a spot with well-draining soil. Atlanta clay holds water; if it stays soggy, bulbs will rot. Amend with compost or "Soil Conditioner" (pine bark fines).
When to Plant
Late October through December, once soil temperatures drop below 60°F. This allows roots to establish without premature sprouting.
How to Plant
Plant bulbs 3 times as deep as the bulb is tall. Always place the "pointy side" up to ensure the stem grows Toward the sun.
Pre-chilling Requirement
Certain bulbs like Tulips and Hyacinths often require "pre-chilling" in a refrigerator for 6–8 weeks before planting to simulate a colder winter.
Spring Bulb Variety Table
| Bulb Name | Light | Depth | Spacing | Height | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windflower (Anemone) | Full/Part Sun | 3" | 4" | 8-12" | Early Spring |
| Glory of the Snow | Full Sun | 3" | 2" | 4-6" | Late Winter |
| Autumn Crocus | Full/Part Sun | 4" | 4" | 6" | Fall (Late) |
| Dutch Crocus | Full Sun | 4" | 3" | 4-6" | Late Winter |
| Flowering Onion (Allium) | Full Sun | 6-8" | 8-12" | 12-48" | Late Spring |
| Snowdrops | Part Shade | 3" | 3" | 4-6" | Late Winter |
| Hyacinths | Full Sun | 6" | 6" | 10" | Mid Spring |
| Bearded Iris | Full Sun | Rhizome surface | 12-18" | 24-36" | Mid-Late Spring |
| Dutch Iris | Full Sun | 6" | 4" | 18-24" | Late Spring |
| Iris Reticulata | Full Sun | 4" | 3" | 6" | Late Winter |
| Summer Snowflake | Part Shade | 4" | 4" | 12-15" | Mid Spring |
| Hybrid Lilies | Full/Part Sun | 6" | 8" | 24-48" | Late Spring |
| Spider Lilies (Lycoris) | Part Shade | 5" | 6" | 18-24" | Late Summer |
| Grape Hyacinth | Full/Part Sun | 3" | 3" | 6" | Early Spring |
| Daffodil (Narcissus) | Full/Part Sun | 6" | 6" | 12-18" | Early-Mid Spring |
| Striped Squill | Full Sun | 3" | 3" | 4-6" | Early Spring |
| Perennial Buttercup | Full Sun | 2" | 4" | 10-14" | Mid Spring |
| Bluebell (Spanish) | Part Shade | 4" | 4" | 12" | Mid Spring |
| Wood Hyacinth | Part Shade | 4" | 4" | 12" | Mid Spring |
| Tulip | Full Sun | 6-8" | 5" | 12-24" | Mid Spring |