Storing flower bulbs until planting season – practical tips from Holland Bulb Market
Storing flower bulbs until planting season – practical tips from Holland Bulb Market
Many gardening enthusiasts and landscaping professionals purchase flower bulbs in summer. This way, you secure the most beautiful varieties and can plan ahead for a colourful spring. Whether it’s vibrant tulips, early crocuses, fragrant hyacinths, or striking allium – proper storage is essential. The experts at Holland Bulb Market explain how.
Why proper storage matters
Flower bulbs are living plant parts. Poor storage can cause them to lose energy and weaken flowering.
Too warm: bulbs sprout too early.
Too damp: risk of mould and rot.
Too dry: dehydration leads to weaker blooms.
With the right storage conditions, your tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, and allium will stay strong until planting season.
The ideal storage location
Temperature: 15–20°C, cool but frost-free.
Dry & dark: avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
Good ventilation: paper bags, wooden crates, or mesh sacks.
Examples: well-ventilated cellar, garage, or pantry.
💡 Landscaping tip: for large projects, store all bulbs in one central dry location until planting day.
Preparation before storage
Inspect each bulb and remove soft or damaged ones.
Clean off loose soil but never wash with water.
Sort and label – useful for planting tulips alongside crocuses or hyacinths near allium.
Store loosely to avoid pressure damage.
Common mistakes
Storing near fruit (apples, pears) – ethylene accelerates ageing.
Plastic bags without ventilation – moisture is trapped.
Not checking regularly – inspect monthly.
Conclusion
Whether you’re tending a private garden or a large landscaping project, proper bulb storage keeps quality high and ensures impressive flowering. With tips from Holland Bulb Market, your spring will be colourful and healthy.
