What are Bulbs in the Green?

Bulbs in the Green refer to flowering bulbs that are sold and planted while they still have their green foliage. Unlike dormant bulbs that are planted during the autumn or winter months, bulbs in the green are active and flowering bulbs that are dug up in late winter or early spring before being sent to the customer for replanting. This practice is especially common for certain species such as bluebells, snowdrops, and aconites, which transplant better when they are in leaf.

Viability of Bulbs in the Green

Buying bulbs in the green guarantees that the bulb is viable and more likely to establish and flower in your garden compared to dormant bulbs. The higher water content of bulbs in the green makes them ideal for planting, as it reduces stress on the bulb and increases the success rate of establishment.

Types of Bulbs in the Green

Bulbs in the green encompass various types of storage facilities for plants, including true bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers. These storage structures allow the plants to survive adverse conditions and come back year after year as perennial plants.

Benefits of Planting Bulbs in the Green

Planting bulbs in the green offers several advantages:

  • Higher success rate: The higher water content of bulbs in the green reduces the risk of desiccation and improves their chances of successful growth and establishment.
  • Easy placement: Planting bulbs in the green allows you to see the plants’ foliage, making it easier to plan your garden borders and ensure proper spacing between the bulbs.
  • Quick results: By planting bulbs in the green, you can enjoy a fabulous display of flowers the following year, without having to wait for years for them to establish.

Availability and Planting Time

Bulbs in the green are typically available for purchase from December to March, and sometimes even into April. It is important to plant them promptly after purchase to ensure their successful growth.

Suitable Plants for Bulbs in the Green

Some popular spring flowers that are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and iris. These plants can be purchased as bulbs in the green and provide beautiful displays of color in the spring.

Planting Options

Bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers or directly into garden borders. This flexibility allows you to choose the planting method that best suits your gardening preferences and needs.

Snowdrop Establishment

Snowdrops, in particular, can take some time to establish. However, planting them in the green can help speed up the process and ensure a quicker and more successful establishment.

Source Reliability

The information provided in this article is based on reliable sources, including The Boston Bulb Company Ltd, Winter Gardens, and Garden Ninja: Lee Burkhill Garden Design.

Sources:

  • The Boston Bulb Company Ltd. Guide to Bulbs in the Green. Link
  • Winter Gardens. What are Bulbs in the Green? Link
  • Garden Ninja: Lee Burkhill Garden Design. How to Plant Bulbs in the Green. Link

FAQs

What are bulbs in the green?



Bulbs in the green refer to flowering bulbs that are sold and planted while they still have their green foliage. This is different from dormant bulbs, which are planted during the autumn or winter months.

Why should I choose bulbs in the green over dormant bulbs?

Buying bulbs in the green guarantees that the bulb is viable and more likely to establish and flower in your garden compared to dormant bulbs. The higher water content of bulbs in the green reduces stress on the bulb and increases the success rate of establishment.

Which types of plants can be purchased as bulbs in the green?

Bulbs in the green encompass various types of storage facilities for plants, including true bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers. These storage structures allow the plants to survive adverse conditions and come back year after year as perennial plants.

What are the benefits of planting bulbs in the green?

– Higher success rate: Bulbs in the green have a higher water content, making them ideal for planting and reducing stress on the bulb.
– Easy placement: Planting bulbs in the green allows you to see where they will flower, making it easier to plan your garden borders and ensure proper spacing.
– Quick results: By planting bulbs in the green, you can enjoy a fabulous display of flowers the following year, without having to wait for years for them to establish.

When can I purchase bulbs in the green?



Bulbs in the green are typically available for purchase from December to March, and sometimes even into April.

When should I plant bulbs in the green?

Bulbs in the green should be planted promptly after purchase to ensure their successful growth. Delaying planting can increase the risk of desiccation and reduce their chances of establishment.

Which plants are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green?

Some popular spring flowers that are suitable for buying as bulbs in the green include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and iris. These plants provide beautiful displays of color in the spring.

Can I plant bulbs in the green in pots or containers?

Yes, bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers, as well as directly into garden borders. This flexibility allows you to choose the planting method that best suits your gardening preferences and needs.