old bulbs

[gan heather]

While doing some Spring cleaning I came across some bulbs of crocus, narcissus, and anemone. They're a year and a half old now. Is it worth holding on to them for planting this Fall or should I just chuck them out?

[Jeanied]

While doing some Spring cleaning I came across some bulbs of crocus, narcissus, and anemone. They're a year and a half old now. Is it worth holding on to them for planting this Fall or should I just chuck them out?

Another culprit here. I usually squeeze the bulb to see if there is anything there - usually they have dried up totally. I soak any of them that look like they may have half a chance for a couple of days in water. Then I either plant them in a tub or throw them away, depending on how optimistic I feel! I have some freesias in a small tub at the moment - that will get tipped out if nothing happens by the summer. Anemones may work - they go quite woody when dry and that is how they are sold. I am not sure how long many bulbs stay viable for, to be honest.

[stella]

I always give any plant a try before I throw it away even if it looks really dead, it never ceases to amaze me how wonderful nature is. If they dont come to anything you can bin them later

[shushkin!]

Dont give up!

I think there are a lot of us out there who have done exactly the same thing
so you are not alone.
Well, I go and plant them where it was I had originally intended. Bulbs
seem to be amazing in their determination to survive and dont be surprised
if quite a few pop next spring. Even the most shrivelled and sad looking
little things seem to come to life when nature kicks them off with the right
conditions.

[sagegreen]

I always give any plant a try before I throw it away even if it looks really dead, it never ceases to amaze me how wonderful nature is. If they dont come to anything you can bin them later

Same with me, always worth a try. I would suggest soaking the anemonies for a few hours before planting anytime now. The planting season for crocus and narcissus is now not really until the autumn, but if the bulbs have been kept dry and feel firm they will still be ok then!