Deer-proof Bulbs for the Shade Garden

Virtues:  We love this mix of five spring-flowering bulbs from Colorblends. The Woodland Blend combines five different early-blooming, mostly deer-proof bulbs that stand up to squirrels and rabbits, too. They also survive shade, provided they receive sun in early spring. That means these bulbs can be planted under deciduous trees and shrubs in the shade garden.

Plants: Colorblends does not reveal the specific species or cultivar name of the bulbs in its mixes, but the Woodland Blend includes a miniature daffodil, crocus, winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis), squill (Scilla siberica) and glory-of-the-snow (Chionodoxa sp.).

Flowers: These bulbs bloom in early spring, in yellow, purple and blue.

Foliage: The foliage of these spring-blooming bulbs persists for a short time after the flowers fade. During that time it recharges the energy stores of the bulb, so it is important to let it remain until it dies back naturally.

Habit: All five varieties grow between 3 and 6 inches tall.

Season: Early spring, for flowers.

Exposure: Full sun or in the shade of deciduous trees and shrubs. These early-blooming bulbs work in the shade of deciduous trees because they grow before the trees leaf out.

How to grow Colorblends’ Woodland Blend: Plant this mix of deer-proof bulbs in the fall, in soil that drains well. Site the bulbs where they will receive full sun in early spring, when they are growing. The location can receive part or full shade during the times of year when these bulbs are dormant—mid-spring through summer, fall and winter. Colorblends notes that this mix contains mostly deer-proof bulbs; the crocus may be nibbled by deer, squirrels or rabbits but the other bulbs typically aren’t bothered.

More tips on planting and choosing flower bulbs

Image courtesy of Colorblends