Understanding Bulbs in the Green: A Guide to Flowering Bulbs with Green Foliage

Flowering bulbs add vibrant colors and beauty to gardens, signaling the arrival of spring. Among the various methods of purchasing and planting bulbs, “Bulbs in the Green” have gained popularity among gardeners. This article aims to provide an expert guide to Bulbs in the Green, drawing information from reputable sources such as The Boston Bulb Company Ltd, Plews Garden Design, and Garden Ninja.

Definition of 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, which are sold without any visible signs of growth, bulbs in the green are purchased during the late winter and early-mid spring months, typically from December to March, and sometimes even into April.

Viability and Advantages of Buying Bulbs in the Green

One of the primary reasons for buying bulbs in the green is to ensure their viability. Purchasing bulbs in this state guarantees that the bulb is healthy and more likely to establish and flower in your garden compared to dormant bulbs. Historically, there have been issues with incorrectly stored or treated bulbs, leading to poor growth or rotting. Buying bulbs in the green reduces the risk of such problems.

Types of Bulbs in the Green

Bulbs in the Green encompass various types of perennial plants that store energy in specialized structures. True bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers are all considered bulbs in the green. True bulbs are underground shoots with modified leaves attached to a basal plate. Corms are swollen underground stems, and rhizomes are underground stems that store energy. Tubers can be either stem or root tubers and serve as storage organs.

Benefits and Planting Considerations

Planting bulbs in the green offers several advantages. Firstly, it reduces stress on the bulb since it is already actively growing. Secondly, the green foliage provides better visibility for planting, ensuring that bulbs are positioned correctly. Additionally, planting bulbs in the green allows for better planning of garden borders, as you can see the exact location and spacing of the plants.

Plant Options for Bulbs in the Green

Various spring flowers are suitable for purchasing as bulbs in the green. Some popular choices include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and iris. These plants can be planted as bulbs in the green to quickly introduce beautiful blooms to your garden.

Planting Locations

Bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers or directly into garden borders. Planting them in pots and containers allows for a rolling display of flowering plants, while planting them in garden borders fills bare spots in your winter garden.

Establishment Time and Longevity

The time it takes for bulbs in the green to establish and grow varies depending on the specific plant. For example, snowdrops may take a few years to establish, while daffodils can grow relatively quickly. When planted properly, bulbs in the green have the potential to survive and thrive, providing beautiful blooms for years to come.

References:

  • The Boston Bulb Company Ltd. Guide to Bulbs in the Green – [link]
  • Plews Garden Design. What are Bulbs in the Green | Winter Gardens | Spring Flowers – [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. They are purchased during the late winter and early-mid spring months when the bulbs are actively growing.

Why should I buy bulbs in the green?

Buying bulbs in the green guarantees their viability and increases the chances of successful establishment and flowering in your garden. It reduces the risk of purchasing dormant bulbs that may have storage or growth issues.

What types of bulbs are considered bulbs in the green?



Bulbs in the green include true bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers. These are all types of perennial plants with specialized storage structures that store energy for growth and flowering.

What are the benefits of planting bulbs in the green?

Planting bulbs in the green offers several advantages. It reduces stress on the bulb, provides better visibility for planting, and allows for better planning of garden borders. Additionally, bulbs in the green have a higher chance of establishing and flowering compared to dormant bulbs.

When are bulbs in the green available for purchase?

Bulbs in the green are typically available for purchase from December to March, and sometimes even into April. This is the period when the bulbs are actively growing and have green foliage.

When should I plant bulbs in the green?

Bulbs in the green should be planted promptly after purchase to ensure their successful growth and flowering. Planting them while they are actively growing increases their chances of establishing in your garden.

What are some popular spring flowers suitable for buying as bulbs in the green?



Some popular spring flowers that can be purchased as bulbs in the green include snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, crocus, and iris. These plants provide beautiful blooms and are well-suited for planting in the green.

Can bulbs in the green be planted in pots or garden borders?

Yes, bulbs in the green can be planted in pots and containers or directly into garden borders. Planting them in pots allows for a flexible and portable display of flowering plants, while planting them in garden borders adds color and interest to specific areas of your garden.