Question 1

What's the difference between bulbs, corms, tubers, and rhizomes?

Accepted Answer

Bulbs (like amaryllis) are layered underground storage organs. Corms (like gladiolus) are solid, compressed stems. Tubers (like dahlia, caladium) are swollen roots or stems storing nutrients. Rhizomes (like canna lily) are horizontal underground stems. All function similarly—storing energy for the plant—but structurally different.

Question 2

When should I plant gladiolus bulbs in Mumbai?

Accepted Answer

September-November is ideal in Mumbai when temperatures drop below 25°C. This gives corms cool conditions for root development. Blooms appear 60-90 days after planting (December-February). Avoid planting during peak summer (April-June) or monsoon (July-August).

Question 3

Do I need to dig up and store bulbs every year?

Accepted Answer

Depends on the type. Hardy bulbs (amaryllis, canna lily) can stay in ground year-round in most Indian climates. Tender bulbs (gladiolus, dahlia) should be lifted 10-12 weeks after flowering, dried, treated with fungicide, and stored in cool, dry place until next planting season for best results.

Question 4

Why didn't my bulbs bloom this year?

Accepted Answer

Common causes: planted at wrong depth (too deep or shallow), insufficient chilling period for temperate bulbs, bulbs too small or old (exhausted), planted in heavy clay soil with poor drainage, or not enough sunlight (most need 6+ hours). Check planting depth first—it's the most common error.

Question 5

How deep should I plant bulbs?

Accepted Answer

General rule: plant bulbs at depth 2-3 times their height. Small gladiolus corms (2-3 cm diameter): 6-10 cm deep. Large dahlia tubers (5-6 cm): 10-15 cm deep. Pointed end faces up. Mark depth with finger on trowel to ensure consistency.

Question 6

Can I grow bulbs in pots or only in ground?

Accepted Answer

Most bulbs grow excellently in pots with proper container size. Use pots at least 12-15 inches deep for gladiolus or dahlia, 8-10 inches for smaller bulbs. Ensure drainage holes. Pots actually make lifting and storage easier and give you control over soil quality.

Bulbs and Tubers: Growing Underground Powerhouses in Indian Gardens

Bulbs and Tubers: Growing Underground Powerhouses in Indian Gardens