I am getting married in October. Instead of having a "candy bar" where guests can select different types of candy to take home I am doing a "bulb bar" where each guest can fill up a sack with different flower bulbs that they can plant before winter. I would like to start looking at what bulbs to buy but I have several questions including 1) What would be the cheaper kinds of flower bulbs that my guests could plant in the fall? 2) When I should I purchase the bulbs (now or in the fall?) Any info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
The best way to get even the more expensive bulbs at a reasonable price is to order bulk from reputable mail order bulb companies. Don’t buy them in little packages at a garden center!
An important point to consider when you choose which bulbs to get is the climate that most of your guests will be going home to. Not all bulbs are suited to all climates.
Another consideration is to choose bulbs that are likely to give your guests years of pleasure rather only one spring show. Most tulips, for example, are not reliably perennial.
If you and your guests live in an are with cold winters a few suggestions for very inexpensive bulbs are crocuses, some of the narcissus (daffodils), some species tulips, muscari, rock garden irises, and Dutch irises.
You should look at some online catalogs and think about some selections. Then you will have lots of time to narrow your list down.
I suggest pre-ordering in July so you will encounter fewer "sold-outs" with a delivery date of a couple weeks before your wedding. Make sure you get the delivery date right – and you are likely to if you order from some of the many companies with lousy customer service.
The first company I suggest you try is Brent and Becky’s Bulbs. During their off season, call them and ask for help. That is the main reason I am suggesting this company first. Talking with a real person who has hands on experience is possible with them.
http://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/spring/
The second company I recommend is John Scheeper. They have a wide selection, good prices, and good service.
http://www.johnscheepers.com/
Hope this is helpful.