2024 bulb sale
Once again, we’re delighted to offer this selection of our favorite spring-blooming bulbs and our own divided peony roots for sale! All the varieties listed are bulbs that we would plant ourselves for our own CSA customers as well as market sales. Bring some brightness to your gardens next spring by planting bulbs this fall.
All packages will be labeled with variety name and brief planting instructions. For answers to other frequently asked questions see below.
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UPTON FARMSTAND PICKUP AVAILABLE SATURDAY 11/16 TO SUNDAY 11/24. Once we have processed your order you will receive an email that you order is ready for pickup. Bulb pickup will run Saturday 11/16 to Sunday 11/24. Daily hours are 10am - 4pm. All orders not picked up by Sunday 11/24 will incur a 25% restocking charge.
BULB FAQs
Can I still plant bulbs now?
If your soil has yet to freeze solid, you can still plant! Here on the farm in Central Massachusetts, we usually finish planting bulbs by early/mid December. Bulbs need enough chill-hours to bloom properly - we recommend planting your bulbs as soon as you receive them. Once planted, we recommend mulching with a thick layer of leaves so that your bulbs have time to root before the soil freezes and to prevent frost heaving.
How deep should I plant my bulbs?
A good rule of thumb to follow for spring-blooming bulbs is to plant bulbs at a depth 2-3 times the bulb’s height. Large bulbs like Allium should be planted 8” deep, medium bulbs like tulips and narcissus around 6” and smaller bulbs like Muscari (grape hyacinth) should be planted no more than 3” deep.
Where should I plant my bulbs?
Bulbs do best in full-sun. If you do not have full sun, plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sun. More importantly, plant bulbs in well-draining soil. They hate wet-feet!
What about critters?
While narcissus, muscari, and alliums are deer-resistant and usually squirrel-resistant, tulips are not! If you have squirrels/chipmunks/rabbits, plant your tulips deeper - around 8”. You also use chicken wire/wire mesh to deter these friends from digging your tulip bulbs out. First plant your bulbs then as you are back-filling your planting space, bury the chicken wire/wire mesh 2” from ground level. Lift the mesh out once the bulbs begin to sprout in the spring.
Can I plant bulbs in containers?
Yes! However, flower bulbs need a period of cold (40-45*) in order to flower properly. The amount of “chill” needed depends on variety, but you can simulate them being in the ground by planting in containers and storing your pots in a cold basement/garage. Muscari will need 10 weeks of cold, daffodils 12 weeks of cold, and tulips 14 weeks of cold. When you plant in containers, be sure to choose a vessel that provides good drainage. Plant your bulbs in containers as you would in the ground, close but not touching. Plant bulbs pointy side up, cover with potting mix and water thoroughly. Do not water again until you see sprouts coming up. If during the winter you find that your pots are dry, water sparingly to keep the soil moist, but not wet. Once your cold period is up, bring your pots to a cool, 60* area for a week for new shoots to emerge. Once you see leaves begin to form, move your pots to a sunny window or outside (if temperature allows), water regularly and enjoy your potted bulb garden!