Discover a Vibrant Burst of Spring Color – Order Bulbs Now!
Plant Fall Bulbs Now for a Colorful Spring: Your Guide to the Spokane Master Gardener Bulb Sale
Why Plant Bulbs in the Fall?
Think of bulbs like nature’s surprise packages. You tuck them into the ground in autumn when it’s cool, they sleep all winter, and then—pop!—they burst into colorful flowers when the snow melts.
After a long, gray winter (especially in areas touched by wildfires), those first spring blooms are like a high-five from Mother Nature. They tell us: "Hey, new life is coming back!"
The catch? You have to plant them now—in late September through October—to get that spring magic.
The Spokane Master Gardener Bulb Sale: Your One-Stop Shop
The Spokane County Master Gardener Foundation makes it super easy. Their annual bulb sale is happening right now through September 18.
What’s for Sale?
- 50+ unique bulb varieties
- Rare and unusual tulips and daffodils
- Specialty bulbs like brodiaea, erythronium (trout lilies), and fritillaria (checkered lilies)
- The top 5 best-sellers from last year are back by popular demand
- Everything else is brand new to the sale this year
Where Do They Come From?
All bulbs are sourced from Van Engelen Flower, a world-famous Dutch company that’s been growing top-quality bulbs since 1845. That’s almost 180 years of bulb expertise!
How to Order: Simple Steps
- Visit the website: spokane.mastergardenerfoundation.org
- Browse the selection—there are photos and growing instructions for every variety
- Place your order before September 18
- Pick up your bulbs starting October 17 at:
WSU Spokane County Extension Office
222 N. Havana St., Spokane
Mark Your Calendar!
Order deadline: September 18
Pickup starts: October 17
Planting window: Late September through October
Why This Sale Matters: It’s Not Just About Flowers
Every bulb you buy helps your whole community grow.
All proceeds support the Master Gardener Foundation of Spokane County, which funds the WSU Spokane County Master Gardener Program. Here’s what that program does for YOU:
Free Expert Help
- Plant clinics at 4 locations:
- WSU Spokane County Extension Office
- Shadle Library
- South Hill Library
- Cheney Library
- Bring your gardening questions—get research-based answers!
Education & Community
- Gardening classes for all skill levels
- Speakers available for community groups
- Youth programs (getting kids excited about growing things!)
- Community garden support
Demonstration Gardens: See It to Believe It
The program maintains beautiful gardens that show what works in our climate:
| Garden Type | Location | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|---|
| Full Sun & Shade Gardens | Extension Office | Which plants thrive where |
| SpokaneScape Drought-Tolerant Garden | Extension Office | How to replace thirsty lawns with water-wise plants |
| Native Plant & Pollinator Garden | Spokane Conservation District Quarry | Supporting bees, butterflies & local ecology |
| Wildfire-Resistant Garden (NEW!) | Extension Office | Landscaping tips to protect your home |
Quick Planting Cheat Sheet for Beginners
ELI5 Version: How to Plant a Bulb
- Dig a hole about 2–3 times as deep as the bulb is tall
- Drop it in pointy-side up (roots go down, shoot goes up)
- Cover with soil and pat gently
- Water once to settle the soil
- Wait for spring!
Most bulbs need well-drained soil and sunshine. Check the specific instructions for each variety when you order.
Summary
- Spring color starts in fall—plant bulbs late Sept–Oct
- Spokane Master Gardener Bulb Sale runs through Sept 18 online
- 50+ varieties from a top Dutch grower (since 1845!)
- Pickup Oct 17 at WSU Extension Office, 222 N. Havana St.
- Your purchase funds free plant clinics, classes, youth programs, and demonstration gardens
- New this year: A wildfire-resistant demo garden at the Extension Office
FAQ
I’ve never planted bulbs before. Is it hard?
Not at all! If you can dig a small hole and drop something in it, you can plant bulbs. The sale website has growing instructions for every variety, and Master Gardeners are available at plant clinics if you get stuck.
What if I have a shady yard?
No problem! Some bulbs (like certain daffodils and erythronium) do fine in partial shade. Check the growing info on the website or ask at a plant clinic.
Do bulbs come back every year?
Many do! Daffodils, crocuses, and some tulips are perennial and will return. Others (like fancy tulips) are best treated as annuals—enjoy them for one spectacular spring, then replant next fall.
Can I plant bulbs in a burn scar area?
Yes, and it’s a beautiful idea. Bulbs are tough and often thrive in post-fire soils. Just make sure the ground isn’t compacted—loosen the soil a bit before planting.
What if I miss the September 18 deadline?
The sale ends firm on that date to ensure bulbs arrive in time for October planting. Mark your calendar! But you can still visit the demonstration gardens year-round for inspiration.
Final Thought: Planting bulbs is an act of hope. You’re saying, "I believe in tomorrow’s beauty." And when those first green shoots push through the melting snow next spring? You’ll be so glad you did.