Bulb Spacing Calculator

Calculate how many bulbs fit in your flower bed with proper spacing. Get planting recommendations for tulips, daffodils, crocus, and other popular bulbs.

Length of planting area

Width of planting area

Only for custom bulb type

Total Bulbs = (Length / Spacing + 1) × (Width / Spacing + 1). Bulb Density = Total Bulbs / Area. Recommended spacing varies by bulb type (7-30cm). Planting depth: 2-3× bulb height.
3m × 2m bed for tulips (10cm spacing): (3/0.1 + 1) × (2/0.1 + 1) = 31 × 21 = 651 bulbs. Area: 6m², Density: ~108 bulbs/m²

How far apart should I plant flower bulbs?

Spacing varies by bulb size: Small bulbs (crocus): 7-8cm (3"). Medium (tulips, daffodils): 10-15cm (4-6"). Large (allium, lilies): 20-30cm (8-12"). General rule: space bulbs 2-3× their diameter apart. Closer spacing creates fuller display but may need dividing sooner. Follow specific recommendations for each species.

How many bulbs do I need for my flower bed?

Calculate: (Bed area in m²) × (Bulbs per m²). Bulbs per m²: Crocus ~200, Tulips ~50-70, Daffodils ~35-50, Large allium ~12-25. Example: 2m × 3m bed = 6m². For tulips at 10cm spacing: ~350 bulbs. Add 10-15% extra for failures. Plant in groups for impact.

What is the rule for planting bulb depth?

General rule: Plant bulbs 2-3× their height deep. Small bulbs (crocus): 7-10cm (3-4"). Medium (tulips, daffodils): 15-20cm (6-8"). Large (lilies): 15-25cm (6-10"). Deeper planting: better cold protection, more stable plants, less likely to be dug up. Always plant pointed end up, flat end down.

Should I plant bulbs in rows or groups?

Groups look more natural! Plant in clusters of odd numbers (5, 7, 9) for informal gardens. Rows work for formal designs or cutting gardens. "Drift" planting: toss bulbs gently and plant where they land for naturalized look. Avoid single bulbs - they get lost visually. Layering: plant different bulbs at various depths for extended blooms.

Can I plant different bulbs together?

Yes! Layering technique: Plant large bulbs (tulips) deep, medium (daffodils) mid-depth, small (crocus) shallow - all in same spot for successive blooms. Choose complementary colors and bloom times. Avoid mixing very aggressive spreaders with delicate bulbs. Ensure compatible water/sun requirements. Creates spectacular, long-lasting displays.