%20(1).png)
Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer
Prepare spring bulbs for stunning blooms with 5-10-10 fall bulb fertilizer. Planting tips, rates, and expert advice from Old Cobblers Farm.
Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer
Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 is a granular commercial fertilizer specifically designed for autumn bulb planting. Unlike balanced fertilizers, its higher phosphorus and potassium ratios are tailored to the unique needs of flowering bulbs — plants that need to establish strong root systems quickly before the ground freezes. The 5% nitrogen component derived from both ammoniacal and urea sources provides just enough energy for initial root-zone activity without triggering vulnerable top growth heading into winter.
Gardeners use this fertilizer because spring-flowering bulbs have a narrow window to absorb nutrients and build root mass in fall. Without proper phosphorus levels, bulbs struggle to develop the root infrastructure needed for winter survival and spring flowering. The potassium component further strengthens cell walls and improves cold tolerance, leading to healthier plants that produce larger, more vibrant blooms.
NPK
5-10-10
Type
Non-Organic
Derived From
Ammoniacal Nitrogen (4%), Urea Nitrogen (1%), Available Phosphoric Acid (P2O5) 10%, Soluble Potash (K2O) 10%
Best For
Tulips|Daffodils|Crocuses|Hyacinths|Lilies|Alliums|Irises|Grape Hyacinths
Brand
Wicked Growth
NPK Breakdown
N
5
Supports steady leaf growth and early green-up without excessive top growth that weakens bulbs before winter.
P
10
Promotes strong root development and early bulb establishment before winter dormancy.
K
10
Strengthens disease resistance, winter hardiness, and overall bloom quality in spring.
What Is It ?
Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 is a specially formulated granular fertilizer designed to support the growth and development of spring-flowering bulbs planted in autumn. With a nutrient ratio of 5% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 10% potassium, this blend prioritizes root establishment and winter hardiness over excessive top growth — exactly what bulbs need before going dormant. The lower nitrogen content prevents soft, frost-vulnerable foliage, while elevated phosphorus and potassium fuel deep root systems, strong bulb development, and vibrant spring blooms. Ideal for tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and lilies, this fertilizer gives your bulbs the nutritional foundation they need to survive winter and emerge with color and vigor. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer is crafted for gardeners who want reliable, beautiful results every spring.
When To Apply ?
For best results, apply Fall Bulb Fertilizer at planting time by mixing it into the soil at the bottom of each planting hole or trench. This places phosphorus directly in the root zone where bulbs need it most. For established bulb beds, top-dress in early spring as shoots emerge and again in fall after foliage has died back. Always water in thoroughly after application to move nutrients into the soil profile and prevent surface runoff.
How to Apply ?
1.
Timing
Apply when planting bulbs in fall, typically 6–8 weeks before the first hard frost to allow root establishment.
2.
New Planting Rate
For new plantings, apply 1–2 lbs per 100 sq ft, mixing fertilizer into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole.
3.
Established Bulbs
For established bulbs, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons per plant around the base as top growth emerges in early spring.
4.
Flower Bed Rate
For flower beds, spread evenly and work into the top 3–4 inches of soil before planting.
5.
Container Rate
For containers, mix 1 teaspoon per gallon of soil before planting. Containers need lighter rates to avoid salt buildup.
6.
Water In
Water thoroughly after application to activate nutrients and settle soil around bulbs.
7
Established Bulbs
For established bulbs, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons per plant around the base as top growth emerges in early spring.
How To Store
Store in a cool, dry location away from moisture. Keep bag sealed between uses. Avoid contact with eyes and skin — wash hands after handling. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
FAQs
1.
What is the best fertilizer for fall bulbs?
The best fertilizer for fall bulbs is a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium formula like 5-10-10. Phosphorus (10%) promotes strong root development during the critical fall establishment period, while potassium (10%) strengthens bulbs against winter cold and disease. The low nitrogen (5%) prevents excessive leaf growth that could be damaged by frost. Apply at planting time by mixing into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole or broadcasting over the bed before covering bulbs. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 is specifically formulated to give tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and lilies the nutrition they need for spectacular spring blooms.
2.
When should I fertilize flower bulbs?
Fertilize flower bulbs at planting time in the fall, typically September through November depending on your region. This gives bulbs immediate access to phosphorus and potassium for root establishment before the ground freezes. A second application can be made in early spring as shoots emerge to support flowering. For established bulb plantings, top-dress with fertilizer each fall to replenish nutrients consumed during the previous bloom cycle. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers in fall, as they can stimulate soft growth vulnerable to frost damage. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 provides the ideal nutrient balance for fall planting and spring feeding.
3.
How much fertilizer do I put in a bulb planting hole?
For individual bulb planting holes, mix 1–2 teaspoons of 5-10-10 fertilizer into the soil at the bottom of the hole before placing the bulb. For larger bed plantings, broadcast 1–2 pounds per 100 square feet and work it into the top 3–4 inches of soil before setting bulbs. For container-planted bulbs, mix 1 teaspoon per gallon of soil. Ensure fertilizer does not sit in direct contact with the bulb base — mix it into the surrounding soil to prevent burning. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 delivers the phosphorus and potassium bulbs need for strong roots and vibrant spring blooms.
4.
Is 5-10-10 good for tulips and daffodils?
Yes, 5-10-10 is one of the best fertilizer ratios for tulips, daffodils, and other spring-flowering bulbs. The elevated phosphorus encourages robust root growth during fall establishment, which directly translates to larger, more colorful blooms in spring. The high potassium strengthens bulb tissue for better winter survival and disease resistance. Low nitrogen prevents leggy foliage that can flop over and detract from flower displays. Apply at planting in fall and again in early spring when shoots emerge. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 is trusted by gardeners for bigger, brighter tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and lilies.
5.
What nutrients do flower bulbs need?
Flower bulbs primarily need phosphorus and potassium for successful growth and flowering. Phosphorus supports root development and flower bud formation inside the bulb, while potassium improves cold hardiness, disease resistance, and overall bulb health. Only modest amounts of nitrogen are needed — too much nitrogen promotes excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers. Calcium is also beneficial for cell wall strength. A fertilizer with an NPK ratio like 5-10-10 provides the ideal balance for most spring-flowering bulbs. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer delivers precisely this nutrient profile for healthy, productive bulbs.
6.
Can I use bone meal instead of bulb fertilizer?
Bone meal provides phosphorus but lacks potassium, which is equally important for bulb health and winter hardiness. A complete bulb fertilizer like 5-10-10 delivers phosphorus, potassium, and a small amount of nitrogen for balanced nutrition. Bone meal also attracts digging animals like squirrels and raccoons, which can disturb newly planted bulbs. If you prefer organic options, consider pairing bone meal with sulfate of potash, or use a complete organic blend. Old Cobblers Farm™ offers both Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 for conventional programs and Wicked Organics Bone Char for organic gardeners seeking natural phosphorus sources.
7
Should I fertilize bulbs in spring?
Yes, a spring application of fertilizer benefits established bulb plantings. As shoots emerge in early spring, top-dress with 1–2 pounds of 5-10-10 per 100 square feet to fuel flowering and replenish nutrients used during fall root growth. This is especially important for bulbs that have been in the ground for multiple years, as soil nutrient levels deplete over time. Avoid fertilizing after blooms fade, as bulbs are entering dormancy. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Growth Fall Bulb Fertilizer 5-10-10 works well for both fall planting applications and spring top-dressing to maximize bloom quality year after year.