Spring is a time of renewal and regrowth. As the weather warms, dormant plants begin to awaken and blossom. Trees start to bud and flower, filling the air with their sweet scent. Birds sing joyfully, celebrating the end of winter. The green hues of new growth provide a welcomed change after the brown earthy tones of winter. For many, spring represents hope and new beginnings.
The Science Behind Spring Bloom
The increasing sunlight and warmth of spring triggers plants to come out of dormancy. Here is an overview of the scientific processes behind spring blooming:
- Photoperiodism – Plants sense the lengthening days and increasing light. This signals them to initiate flowering.
- Phytochromes – These photoreceptor proteins detect red and far-red light wavelengths. They cue flowering in response to changes in day length.
- Florigen – A hormone produced in the leaves in response to light exposure. It travels to the buds to stimulate flowering.
- Temperature – Warmer weather accelerates plant metabolism and growth. Chilling hours during winter prime many plants to bloom in spring.
- Pollination – Bees become more active, traveling from flower to flower. This cross-pollination leads to fruit and seed production.
The vibrant colors and scents of spring blossoms are adaptations to attract pollinators. Together, light, temperature, hormones, and pollinators create the floral showcase of springtime.
Spring Flowers
Spring flowers are diverse, spanning many plant families, colors, and forms. Here are some of the most popular spring-blooming flowers:
Tulips
Native to central Asia, tulips shine in spring with cup-shaped blooms on erect stems. There are over 100 wild species and thousands of cultivated varieties. Colors range from red, pink, purple, yellow, and white.
- Botanical name: Tulipa
- Plant family: Liliaceae
- Perennial bulb
- Heights from 8 inches to 28 inches
- Blooms from March to May depending on climate
Tulips require a cold dormant period of 12-16 weeks below 45°F to flower properly. The variegated patterns and vivid colors of tulip blossoms never cease to brighten spring gardens and landscapes.
Daffodils
Distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers emerge on leafless stems, marking the transition from late winter to spring. Native to meadows and woodlands of Europe and North Africa.
- Botanical name: Narcissus
- Plant family: Amaryllidaceae
- Perennial bulb
- Heights from 6 inches to 28 inches
- Blooms from March to May
Daffodils are one of the most familiar and popular spring flowers. Their bright yellow hues signal the rebirth of sunshine. Over 50 species and thousands of cultivars exist in shades of white, yellow, orange, pink, and peach.
Hyacinths
Native to the eastern Mediterranean, hyacinths are prized for their strongly scented flower spikes in purple, pink, white, red, orange, and yellow. They require a cold winter period of 8-10 weeks below 50°F to bloom properly.
- Botanical name: Hyacinthus
- Plant family: Asparagaceae
- Perennial bulb
- Heights from 4 to 12 inches
- Blooms March to May
The lush, full flower spikes of hyacinths are sure signs of spring. The sweet, powerful fragrance perfumes gardens and bouquets. Take care not to damage the tender bulb when planting.
Crocuses
These low-growing, early-blooming flowers thrive in full sun with well-drained soil. The cup-shaped blooms add cheery color in purple, yellow, white, pink, orange and bicolors.
- Botanical name: Crocus
- Plant family: Iridaceae
- Perennial corm or bulb
- Heights from 3 to 6 inches
- Blooms February to April
Crocuses are one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter and early spring. The grass-like leaves emerge first, followed by solitary blooms on upright stems. These carefree bulbs naturalize readily to provide a welcomed pop of color.
Spring-Blooming Trees and Shrubs
Beyond showy bulbs, spring awakens many woody plants to produce abundant floral displays. Here are some of the best spring-flowering trees and shrubs:
Forsythia
This easy-to-grow, trouble-free shrub bursts into golden yellow bloom before the leaves emerge. Excellent for borders and hedges. Prune after flowering to maintain shape. Provide full sun and good drainage.
- Botanical name: Forsythia x intermedia
- Plant family: Oleaceae
- Deciduous shrub
- Heights from 5 to 10 feet
- Blooms March to April
The brilliant yellow of forsythia flowers provides one of the first signs of spring’s arrival. Branches cut for forcing will bloom indoors weeks before the landscape plants.
Lilacs
Classic spring-blooming shrubs with deliciously fragrant flowers ranging from deep purple to white. Performs best in cold winter climates. Susceptible to mildew in hot and humid regions. Prune immediately after flowering.
- Botanical name: Syringa vulgaris
- Plant family: Oleaceae
- Deciduous shrub
- Heights from 6 to 15 feet
- Blooms April to June
Lilac’s lush, spikes of flowers and unmistakable scent create a sensory experience. They remind many people of grandmother’s garden. Excellent as a specimen plant or informal hedge.
Flowering Dogwood
A staple of eastern U.S. forests, dogwoods are prized for their early spring blooms and red autumn foliage. Clusters of small yellowish-green flowers surround the center cluster. Prefers partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil.
- Botanical name: Cornus florida
- Plant family: Cornaceae
- Deciduous tree
- Heights 15 to 30 feet
- Blooms March to May
The showy bracts of dogwood flowers provide a beautiful spring focal point. Take care to provide the preferred growing conditions for best performance. Avoid compacted or soggy soil.
Redbud
A harbinger of spring, redbuds burst into an abundance of pink to purplish-red blooms before the heart-shaped leaves emerge. Does best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Withstands drought and urban conditions.
- Botanical name: Cercis canadensis
- Plant family: Fabaceae
- Deciduous tree
- Heights 20 to 30 feet
- Blooms March to April
The profuse, delicate blooms lining the branches give redbuds a soft, delicate appearance unique among flowering trees. Excellent for naturalizing. Choose named cultivars for deeper flower colors.
Flowering Cherry
These spring blooming beauties are prized for their frothy, candy-colored blooms. Many cultivars available including weeping forms. Performs best in full sun and slightly acidic, well-drained soil. Susceptible to fungal diseases in humid climates.
- Botanical name: Prunus species
- Plant family: Rosaceae
- Deciduous tree
- Heights 15 to 40 feet
- Blooms March to May
Nothing speaks of spring’s arrival like the cotton-candy blooms of a flowering cherry tree. Shop for named cultivars selected for disease resistance and growth habits. Provide good air circulation.
Caring for Spring Flowers
A little planning and care will help your spring flowers thrive and extend their floral display:
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil. Amend with compost if needed.
- Water spring bulbs and bloomers regularly if rainfall is insufficient. Avoid soggy soil.
- Apply a slow-release bulb fertilizer in fall for good spring growth.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
- Cut back ornamental grasses and perennials in early spring before new growth emerges.
- Prune spring-flowering shrubs and trees immediately after blooming.
- Divide crowded clumps of bulbs and perennials in fall.
- Shop for deer and rabbit resistant options if needed. Daffodils and hyacinths are rarely damaged.
- Layer bulbs for a continuous sequence of spring blooms. Combine early, mid, and late flowering varieties.
With a little forethought and care, you can craft a stunning display of spring flowers. Their blossoms provide some of the most welcome sights after winter.
Planning a Spring Flower Garden
Here are some tips for designing a garden to highlight all the beauty spring flowers have to offer:
- Select a sunny spot. Most spring bulbs and bloomers need full sun for best performance. This encourages prolific flowering.
- Improve drainage if needed. Spring flowers dislike soggy soil. Incorporate organic matter or use raised beds if the site is poorly drained.
- Choose a color scheme. Stick with a cohesive color palette for big visual impact. Blue muscarii + yellow daffodils + purple tulips for example.
- Incorporate spring-flowering shrubs. Forsythia, viburnum, lilac and more provide bold backdrops for smaller blooms.
- Layer bulbs. Early, mid and late-season bulbs extend interest. Grape hyacinths, daffodils, tulips, alliums, etc.
- Feature fragrant varieties. Scent is powerful! Prioritize hyacinths, viburnum, lilacs, and flowering trees.
- Add vertical interest. Include taller bulbs like tulips behind low-growers like crocuses and squills.
- Use spring ephemerals. Anemones, scilla, trout lilies bloom then disappear quickly. They complement bulbs.
- Add pollinator favorites. Plants like hyacinths, crocuses, cherry trees attract vital early season bees and butterflies.
With creativity and smart plant choices, you can design a show-stopping spring flower display. The possibilities are endless!
When to Plant Spring Bulbs
Spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths require planting in the fall for vibrant spring flowers. Here are some guidelines on ideal planting times:
- Early fall: September – October is ideal in zones 3-8. Earlier in warmer zones.
- After first frost: Wait until the soil cools below 60 F to avoid premature sprouting.
- Before ground freezes: Get bulbs in at least 6 weeks before frozen soil to allow root growth.
- Spring planting: Best for warm climates. Won’t bloom until the next spring.
- Successive planting: Extend bloom by planting in October, November and December.
Other planting tips:
- Loosen soil and mix in compost or bulb fertilizer.
- Plant bulbs 2-3x their height deep. Spread apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting and as needed until frost.
- Add mulch over planting sites to insulate soil.
- Mark spots with golf tees or plant tags for identification.
Follow proper planting depth, spacing, soil preparation and timing for optimal spring flowering. Pay attention to each variety’s requirements.
Unique Spring Blooming Bulbs
Looking to spice up your spring bulb selection? Here are some unique spring bloomers that will add intrigue:
Snowdrops
Delicate white blooms on 6 inch stems emerge while snow still dusts the ground. Lovely in mass plantings. Early pollinator favorite.
Winter Aconite
Buttery yellow cupped blooms on short stems surround lacy collar-like foliage. Naturalizes easily. Goes dormant fast.
Glory-of-the-Snow
Starry sky-blue flowers with white centers carpet the early spring garden. Looks dazzling mixed with yellow crocuses.
Checkered Lily
Unique white bell-shaped blooms feature bold purple stripes. Hardy bulb grows 6-10 inches tall.
Spanish Bluebell
Vibrant violet-blue spikes bloom April-May, reaching over 12 inches tall. Beautiful massed under trees.
Crown Imperial Fritillaria
Showy orange bell-shaped blooms top impressive 2-3 foot stems in spring. Makes a bold statement.
Beyond the standard tulips and daffodils, explore unique spring bulbs for fresh excitement in your garden. Discover intriguing new colors, shapes, heights and bloom times.
FAQ about Spring Bulbs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about growing spring flowering bulbs:
What bulbs can be left in the ground?
Daffodils, crocuses and grape hyacinths are hardy and can remain in the ground year-round in most climates. Tulips and hyacinths perform best if lifted and stored dry over summer.
How long do spring bulbs bloom?
Bloom times vary, but most bulbs flower for 2-3 weeks. Small bulbs like crocus and squill may bloom for just 1-2 weeks while tulips can flower for 3-4 weeks in cool spring weather.
Do spring bulbs come back every year?
Most spring blooming bulbs are perennials and will return for many years if healthy. Exceptions include tulips which are short lived, and annuals like snowflakes.
Why are some spring bulbs expensive?
Hard to propagate varieties like some types of lilies, tulips, hyacinths and daffodils can be costlier. Prices also reflect the bulb size and maturity. Larger, more mature bulbs command higher prices.
How close together should bulbs be planted?
Check specific variety recommendations, but a general guideline is to plant bulbs 2-3 times their height. For example, plant 2 inch crocuses 1-2 inches apart and 8 inch tulips 4-6 inches apart.
Can bulbs be planted in pots?
Yes! Choose bulbs suited to container growing and use a quality potting mix. Shallow rooted varieties like muscari, crocus and grape hyacinths work well. Supply supplemental water as potted plants dry out faster.
When should I fertilize spring bulbs?
Apply bulb fertilizer upon planting in fall. You can also lightly fertilize when growth emerges in spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can inhibit flowering.
What causes bulbs not to flower?
Insufficient chilling, improper planting depth, overcrowding, soggy soil, animal damage, nutrient deficiencies, diseases, early removal of foliage, and planting the wrong season can prevent flowering.
Follow proper planting and care guidelines and your spring bulbs will thrive and flower abundantly year after year.
Other Signs of Spring
Beyond blooming bulbs and blossoming trees, keep an eye out for these other harbingers of spring:
- Robins returning and singing their cheerful songs. Watch for nest building activity.
- Frogs and toads emerging and filling wetlands with nighttime choruses. Listen for their breeding calls.
- Vibrant green shoots poking up from snow or soil as plants like hostas, ferns and daylilies return to growth.
- Leaf buds swelling noticeably on branches of trees and shrubs before they burst open.
- Bees, butterflies and other pollinators taking advantage of early blooms for nourishment.
- Seeds sprouting in the warming soil and seed trays. The miracle of new life!
- Migrating birds winging their way back north and flocking at feeders.
Spring’s arrival isn’t only marked by flowers. Keep an eye out for all of nature’s revivals and renewals.
Celebrating Spring
The universal celebrations of spring span cultures and history:
Holi – India
- Ancient Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil.
- Takes place in March around the spring equinox.
- Marked by vibrant colors, parades, bonfires, feasts and general merrymaking!
Nowruz – Iran
- “New Day” marks the start of spring and Persian New Year.
- Celebrated on the spring equinox in March by over 300 million people worldwide.
- Festivities last 2 weeks with elaborate meals, family visits, gift exchanges and more.
Easter – Christianity
- Commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and arrival of spring.
- Celebrated by Christians worldwide in April, on the first Sunday after the full moon.
- Traditions include painted eggs, egg hunts, feasting, blooming flowers, bunnies.
Passover – Judaism
- Weeklong celebration in March or April commemorating the liberation of Jewish people from slavery.
- Traditions include spring cleaning of homes, special seders, avoiding leavened bread.
Springtime celebrations highlight renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings. The shared joy in welcoming spring connects us across cultures.
Sourcing Spring Flowers and Bulbs
Here are some recommendations on where to buy top quality spring blooming bulbs and plants:
- Online bulb retailers – Specialty nurseries like John Scheepers, Holland Bulb Farms, Breck’s and Van Engelen. Massive selection, low prices.
- Local garden centers – Support small businesses. Inspect bulbs at purchase for defects. Have expertise.
- Mail order catalogs – Renowned companies like White Flower Farm and McClure & Zimmerman. Order by season.
- Big box stores – Affordable bulbs sold in garden sections of stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Limited selection.
- Wholesale bulb companies – Dutch and domestic wholesale growers like Colorblends and Johnston’s. Buy bulk commercial sizes.
