 Tulips
Daffodils
Hyacinth
Crocus
Allium
Lilies
Iris
Other Bulbs
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One of the visual problems with spring bulbs is the foliage that
remains after bloom. The foliage can become unsightly after the beauty
of the flower is gone. However, foliage should not be mowed off until
it turns yellow and dies back naturally.
 | The foliage on the
smaller bulbs such as snowdrops
will die back rapidly and cause little problem. The foliage on the
larger bulbs like tulips and daffodils
will take several weeks to die back. Keep in mind that after
flowering, the plant needs the green leaves to manufacture food
(photosynthesis) that is stored in the bulb for next year’s growth. If
you mow or remove the foliage too early, the plant can no longer
manufacture nutrient reserves for next year. This results in a small,
weak bulb which will gradually decline and die out. |
There are several ways to divert attention from the yellowing bulb
foliage. Interplant the bulbs in the spring using one or two colours of
annuals. Place bulbs behind the plants on the front edge of a border
planting. Plant taller flowering bulbs behind lower growing foreground
shrubs. Plant bulbs with groundcovers and perennials like hyacinth or
lilies.
Use your imagination when it comes to planting your bulbs and you can
get creative enough to hide the dying foliage.
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How To: Planting & Care of Bulbs: Foliage Care
