How to Select Quality Spring-Planted Bulbs

Planting premium quality bulbs and plants is the best way to get your garden off to a great start.

PLANT SIZE: Bareroot plants are graded by size. The larger the root, the sooner the plant will settle into your garden and reach its mature size.

TRUE BULBS AND CORMS: True bulbs and corms are graded by size, which is determined by measuring their circumference in centimeters. Larger bulbs and larger corms produce stronger plants with more flowers.

RHIZOMES: Rhizomes are graded by the number of growth points or "eyes" they display. More eyes will give you a plant with more sprouts, stems, foliage, and flowers.

TUBERS: Tubers are graded by size and sometimes by weight. Grade #1 is the best quality tuber you can buy. Large tubers will produce larger plants with a bigger presence in your garden.

FIRMNESS: Healthy bulbs, corms, tubers, and rhizomes should be firm to the touch. This indicates they have been properly stored and are in good condition. Bareroot plants are shipped in a dormant state and should be firm, not mushy.

SIZE MATTERS: In the comparison images below, it's easy to see what bigger plants can do for your garden!

Quality Gladiolus

A size 14/12cm gladiolus bulb produces larger flowers and stronger stems compared to a 10/12cm gladiolus bulb which produces smaller flowers and weaker stems.

Quality Calla

A 14/16cm calla bulb will result in more flowers and stronger stems compared to a 12/14cm calla bulb which will result in fewer flowers and weaker stems.

Quality Dahlia

A #1 dahlia bulbs result in more flowers and stronger stems compared to a #2 dahlia bulb which will produce fewer flowers and weaker stems.

Quality Canna

A size 3/5 eye canna will result in more flowers and stronger stems compared to a 2/3 eye canna which will produce fewer flowers and weaker stems.

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