Choose the right bulbs:
When choosing bulbs to plant in Calgary, look for hardy varieties that can withstand cold winters and late frosts. Some good choices include tulips, daffodils, crocuses, alliums, and hyacinths. Zone 3b: -37.2°C to -34.4°C to be safe.
Choose the right location:
Most bulbs require well-drained soil and full sun, so choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Make sure its not clay soil.
Prepare the soil:
Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and mix in compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage. Can throw in peat moss to manage soil pH.
Dig the planting hole:
Dig a hole that is two to three times as deep as the height of the bulb. For example, if the bulb is 2 inches tall, dig a hole that is 4-6 inches deep. Always follow instruction on package.
Plant the bulb:
Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up. Make sure the bulb is sitting at the proper depth, as indicated on the bulb packaging.
Cover the bulb: Fill in the hole with soil and lightly tamp it down do not pack it down.
Water the bulb:
Water the bulb immediately after planting to help settle the soil around the bulb you dont want to flood the area just water at a normal rate.
Mulch the area:
Add a layer of mulch over the planting area to help conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Mark the area:
If planting bulbs in a mixed bed, use plant markers or other identifiers to mark the area where bulbs are planted so you don't accidentally dig them up. Usually can use the plastic markers that you can write on.
Care for the bulbs:
After planting, water the bulbs regularly and fertilize as needed. Once the foliage dies back, the bulbs can be dug up and stored for the next season.
Types of plants that grow well in Calgary:
Perennials are plants that come back year after year. Some good choices for Calgary include coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and daylilies. Fire Witch' Dianthus, Common Peony, May Night Salvia, Karl Forester Feather Reed Grass, Elijah Blue Blue Fescue
Shrubs:
Shrubs provide structure and interest to a garden. Some good choices for Calgary include lilacs, potentillas, and snowberry bushes, birchleaf spirea and bridalwreath spirea
Trees:
Trees provide shade and beauty to a garden. Some good choices for Calgary include aspen, birch, and spruce trees.
Annuals:
Annuals are plants that need to be replanted every year. Some good choices for Calgary include petunias, marigolds, and snapdragons.Remember about planing where you want your plant in the sun or shade read the label it should state.
Hanging Baskets:
Here are a few examples you can put in hanging plants.
Marigolds,Petunias.Osteospermum.Verbena.Lobelia.Calibrachoa,Geranium
Vegetables:
Many vegetables can be grown successfully in Calgary's short growing season. Some good choices include peas, lettuce, and carrots.
Herbs:
Herbs can be grown in pots or in a garden bed. Some good choices for Calgary include thyme, sage, and chives. These are great choices.
When choosing plants for your garden, be sure to check their hardiness zone and make sure they are suitable for Calgary's climate. With proper care and attention, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden in Calgary. Happy Gardening.