Fall Bulbs in Northern New Jersey: Deer and Rabbit Resistant Varieties
Fall is the perfect time to plant bulbs that will rejuvenate your garden with bursts of color in early spring. In northern New Jersey, choosing deer and rabbit-resistant varieties ensures your efforts are not in vain.
Let's explore some of the best fall bulbs that not only add beauty but also deter these common garden pests:
1. Daffodils (Narcissus)
Why They're Great: Daffodils are toxic to deer and rabbits, making them an excellent choice for pest-prone gardens. They come in a variety of colors and forms, adding cheerful blooms to your spring landscape.
Standout Cultivars:
'Tête-à-Tête': This dwarf variety produces multiple bright yellow flowers per stem and is perfect for borders and containers.
'Ice Follies': Known for its large, white petals and lemon-yellow cups that fade to creamy white.
'Thalia': A fragrant, pure white daffodil that adds elegance to any garden.
Planting Tips: Plant daffodil bulbs in well-drained soil about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. They prefer full to partial sun.
2. Alliums (Ornamental Onions)
Why They're Great: Alliums have a strong, onion-like scent that repels deer and rabbits. Their globe-shaped blooms add a unique architectural element to gardens.
Standout Cultivars:
'Purple Sensation': Produces striking purple flower heads that reach up to 4 inches in diameter.
'Globemaster': Known for its massive, dense flower heads that can be over 10 inches in diameter.
'Christophii': Features star-shaped, metallic purple flowers in a loose, airy globe.
Planting Tips: Plant allium bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-drained soil. They thrive in full sun and can be spaced about 8-10 inches apart.
3. Crocuses (Crocus)
Why They're Great: Crocuses are early bloomers that bring bright splashes of color to the garden. They are generally unappealing to deer and rabbits due to their taste.
Standout Cultivars:
'Flower Record': Produces large, deep purple flowers with a bright orange stamen.
'Yellow Mammoth': Known for its large, vibrant yellow flowers that stand out against the early spring landscape.
'Ruby Giant': A small but vibrant crocus with rich purple flowers.
Planting Tips: Plant crocus bulbs about 3-4 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They do well in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil.
4. Snowdrops (Galanthus)
Why They're Great: Snowdrops bloom early, sometimes pushing through the snow. They are toxic to deer and rabbits, ensuring they remain unbothered by these pests.
Standout Cultivars:
'S. Arnott': Known for its large, fragrant flowers and vigorous growth.
'Flore Pleno': A double-flowered variety with layers of delicate white petals.
'Atkinsii': Tall, elegant snowdrops with long, narrow outer petals.
Planting Tips: Plant snowdrop bulbs about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. They do well in partial shade to full sun.
Planting and Care Tips
Timing: Plant fall bulbs in late September to November before the ground freezes.
Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent bulb rot.
Depth: Follow the recommended planting depth for each bulb type.
Watering: Water the bulbs well after planting to help them establish roots.
Mulching: A layer of mulch can help protect the bulbs from extreme cold and keep the soil moist.
In northern New Jersey’s zone 6, fall bulbs can bring a vibrant and pest-resistant splash of color to your garden. By selecting varieties that are deer and rabbit resistant, you can ensure a beautiful and hassle-free spring display. Plant fall bulbs in late September to November before the ground freezes. The highest quality bulbs can be sourced from John Scheepers, so place your order now before the best varieties are sold out!
