Tulips, daffodils and crocuses are the best-known bulbs, but there are many other types which add immensely to the spring floral display. Unusual bulbs include the less common forms of the most popular species. Tulips have the widest color range of all the fall bulbs in solid and mixed colors, from while to black brilliant scarlet to a curious lime green. Their flowers vary greatly in shape, with the more unusual including parrot types, fringed, double-petalled flowers and those with multiple flowers per stem. Most of these varieties bloom early.
Species tulips are perfect for planting in rock gardens and along the edge of raised flower beds.
Avoid the large-flowered Dutch crocuses, as they are not reliably hardy in our area. Shop early for bulbs for the best selection, and be cautious of bargain-basement prices. Bulbs are graded for quality in a manner similar to meat and eggs. Top-grade daffodils, for example, are more expensive because each bulb produces three to four flowerstalks, whereas the next grade down will produce one or two. The lowest grade often produces only a single flowerstalk per bulb.