Pest-resistant Flower Bulbs
Fall Planting Guide
Plant pansies, snapdragons, stock, calendulas, and primroses now to replace summer annuals. Garlic sets can be planted now for an easy crop to harvest next spring. Choose from hard-neck, soft-neck, or Elephant garlic varieties. Compost fallen leaves instead of burning them—they break down into rich humus by next summer.
Chrysanthemums can be planted in pots or flower beds for bright fall blooms. Look for vibrant foliage on deciduous trees and shrubs like burning bush, Liquidambar, snowball bush, and maples.
Pest-Resistant Flower Bulbs
Deer and squirrels are persistent garden pests, especially in fall. While popular bulbs like tulips and crocuses are vulnerable, others are naturally resistant due to their bitter taste or toxicity.
- Daffodils: Shunned by deer, these bulbs spread and multiply yearly. Varieties include large King Alfreds and fragrant Narcissus.
- Hyacinths: Available in red, pink, blue, and white, their strong fragrance deters pests. Interplant with edible bulbs to protect them.
- Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow): Early spring bloomer with sky-blue flowers. Thrives in sun or partial shade and naturalizes easily.
- Grape Hyacinth (Muscari armeniacum): Long-lasting blue flowers ideal for mass plantings. Creates a "river of Muscari" effect when planted densely.
- Snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum): White bell-shaped flowers on 12-inch stems. Blooms prolifically if left undisturbed for years.
These bulbs combine beauty with low pest appeal, ensuring a thriving spring garden.