Techniques for Fall Planting

The results of a little research on how best to plant hyacinths in your garden now (fall) for spring planting:

	dutch gardens.com	ehow.com	National Gardening Assoc.
When	Plant hyacinths in late fall		Plant hyacinth bulbs in fall, 6 to 8 weeks before a hard frost is expected and when soils are below 60 degrees F. This is usually during September and October in the North, and October and November in the South.
Prepare Bulbs		If necessary, chill bulbs such as tulips and hyacinths (which need a certain amount of cold weather to bloom properly) by storing them in the refrigerator for six to eight weeks before planting.
Select Your Spot	Plant hyacinths ... in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Choose a spot that gets plenty of sun.	Improve the soil, if necessary, by incorporating ample organic matter. Soil preparation is not always necessary as long as drainage is good.	Select a site with full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. Prepare the garden bed by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches...
Dig the Holes	Plant bulbs about 8 inches deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in beds	A depth of two to three times the width of the bulb is a good rule of thumb. Alternatively, dig a long trench instead of individual holes.	Dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep.
Fertilize	Add a small amount of bulb fertilizer in the planting hole.	Add bulb fertilizer to the bottom of the hole and roughly mix it into the soil.	...then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost.
Place Bulb		Place the bulb in the hole. Make sure you have the right side up (usually point up, roots down). The bottom of the bulb should rest firmly on the bottom of the hole.	Set the bulb in the hole, pointy end up
Cover		Refill the planting hole, tamping the soil lightly.	...then cover with soil and press firmly
Water		Water the bulbs thoroughly.	Water thoroughly after planting.