How to Plant Bulbs in the Grass

Claudia Parrott
October 18, 2023

Planting bulbs in the grass (sometimes called “naturalizing”) can create a beautiful display of color in the spring. The bulbs must be strong enough to withstand competition from grass roots. Plant early-blooming bulbs in grass that you’ll mow starting in spring: this allows their foliage enough time to wither before the grass is trimmed. The most commonly naturalized bulbs include crocuses, snowdrops, and daffodils, but there are many other bulbs suitable for this purpose. Here’s how to plant bulbs in the grass:

1. Preparing

Choose the Right Bulbs: Opt for bulbs that naturalize well. Crocuses, snowdrops, daffodils, and bluebells are all popular choices.

Time It Right: Fall is typically the best time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. The ground should be cool but not frozen.

2. Designing

Random Planting: For a natural look, avoid planting in straight lines or patterns. You can achieve a random pattern by tossing the bulbs onto the lawn and planting them where they land..

3. Planting

Digging Holes:

For individual bulbs, use a bulb planter or a trowel to dig holes to the required depth. (Usually 4 – 6 in or 2-3 times the height of the bulb).
For groups of bulbs, you can remove a section of turf and prepare the soil beneath before placing the bulbs and replacing the turf.

Planting the Bulbs:

Place each bulb with the pointy end facing up.

Refer to the planting instructions specific to your chosen bulb, as depth and spacing can vary.

Replace the Turf: After planting the bulbs, replace the turf or soil. Firm it down gently with your hands or feet.

Watering: Water the area to help settle the soil around the bulbs. This will also provide the bulbs with necessary moisture to initiate rooting.

4. Maintenance

After Care:

In the spring, once the bulbs have flowered, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This ensures the bulb stores enough energy for the next season.
It’s essential not to mow the area until the bulb’s foliage has yellowed and died back, which might mean leaving certain patches of your lawn longer for a while.
Over time, as the bulbs multiply, you can dig up and divide them if they become too crowded.

Best Tools: Bulb Grass Planting