Autumn is more than just falling leaves in Pennsylvania—it’s the perfect time to plan for spring magic. Bulbs planted now will burst into color just as winter fades.
It’s like planting a promise for brighter days ahead. These 13 easy bulbs will make Pennsylvania gardens pop next spring.
1. Tulips
Few flowers announce spring quite like tulips do. Pennsylvania gardeners love them because they’re super forgiving and come in practically every color imaginable.
Plant them about six inches deep in well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with stunning blooms. They prefer sunny spots but can handle a bit of shade.
2. Daffodils
Bright and cheerful, daffodils are practically foolproof for beginners. These hardy bulbs naturalize easily, meaning they’ll come back year after year without much fuss.
Plant them in clusters for maximum impact. They tolerate various soil types and bloom reliably each spring.
3. Crocuses
Among the earliest bloomers, crocuses often push through snow to greet you. Their delicate purple, white, and yellow flowers are a welcome sight after Pennsylvania’s long winters.
Plant them shallow, about three inches deep. They spread naturally and look fantastic under trees or along walkways.
4. Hyacinths
Want your garden to smell as good as it looks? Hyacinths deliver incredible fragrance along with vibrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white.
Pennsylvania gardeners plant them near walkways and patios to enjoy their sweet scent. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Space them about four inches apart for dense, colorful displays.
5. Grape Hyacinths
Don’t let their small size fool you—grape hyacinths pack a punch. These charming blue or white flowers resemble tiny grape clusters and naturalize beautifully throughout Pennsylvania landscapes.
Plant them in borders or let them carpet areas under shrubs. They bloom reliably and pair wonderfully with taller bulbs.
6. Snowdrops
True to their name, snowdrops often bloom while snow still lingers. These delicate white flowers are among the toughest bulbs for Pennsylvania’s unpredictable spring weather.
Plant them in drifts for a natural woodland effect. They self-seed readily and require virtually no maintenance once established.
7. Alliums
Looking for something a bit different? Alliums produce dramatic globe-shaped flower clusters atop tall stems. Pennsylvania gardeners appreciate their architectural interest and the fact that deer won’t touch them.
They bloom later than most spring bulbs, extending your color season. Plant them in sunny areas with good drainage. Their unique spherical blooms make stunning focal points.
8. Scilla
Scilla’s brilliant blue flowers create stunning carpets of color. Sometimes called Siberian squill, these tough little bulbs thrive in Pennsylvania’s climate and spread enthusiastically.
Plant them shallow and watch them multiply. They’re extremely cold-hardy and bloom early alongside crocuses and snowdrops.
9. Anemones
Anemones bring bold, poppy-like flowers in striking colors. While they’re slightly less common, Pennsylvania gardeners who try them become instant fans.
Soak the bulbs overnight before planting for best results. They look stunning in cutting gardens and mixed borders throughout the state.
10. Chionodoxa
Also called glory-of-the-snow, chionodoxa produces star-shaped blue flowers with white centers. These charming bulbs naturalize beautifully in Pennsylvania gardens and require almost no care.
Plant them in groups for maximum visual impact. They tolerate partial shade and spread to create lovely drifts over time.
11. Fritillaria
For something truly unique, try fritillaria with its checkered or bell-shaped blooms. Pennsylvania gardeners find them fascinating conversation starters.
They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade. Plant them where you can admire their unusual beauty up close in your Pennsylvania landscape.
12. Leucojum
Often confused with snowdrops, leucojum blooms slightly later with larger flowers. Sometimes called summer snowflake despite its spring bloom time, these elegant white bells thrive in Pennsylvania’s climate.
Plant them in moist, well-drained areas. They naturalize beautifully and require virtually no maintenance once established in your yard.
13. Iris Reticulata
These miniature irises pack incredible color into tiny packages. Pennsylvania gardeners treasure them for their early blooms in shades of purple, blue, and yellow.
Plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sun. Despite their delicate appearance, they’re surprisingly tough and handle Pennsylvania winters beautifully.