What is a good site to purchase inexpensive plant bulbs?

Question

I live in the Upper Midwest (zone 4), and I'd like to order a bunch of bulbs to plant this fall. I'm looking for something a little unique- not just the same old red tulips. But I'd like to get a good deal! Any ideas?

Answer 1

Two good site links are below. They have excellent photos.
I'd go for good quality, large bulbs (12c). In your area the tulips and other bulbs will come back year after year. I have to recommend my all time favorite -- blushing lady tulip -- it turns color and changes form. You can enjoy it from a tght bud to totally open nearly saucer like.

http://www.netherlandbulb.com
www.dutchgardens.com
www.whiteflowerfarm.com

Answer 2

http://www.colorblends.com/

we have used colorblends with great sucess in oakland county, MI and cook/mchenry county IL. (both zone 5) After the first year, our neighbors were ordering from them too. The quality of the bulbs is amazing, big and so fresh and almost juicy looking. They ship in these great reusable crates too.

We planted 10 different kinds of tulips, hyacinths, ice follies daffodils, muscari and crocuses. Daffodils came back stronger each year. tulips and hyacinths diminished as expected. Check out the pink cloud double tulips, they were so beautiful.

Answer 3

I've tried several sites.

Bluestone Perrenials had the best plants for the money. www.bluestoneperennials.com

I was unhappy with the plant quality from Michigan Bulb Company. Most of them didn't grow.

Answer 4

I second the bluestone perennials suggestion. They're a very reputable company. I also ordered from Michigan Bulb and from Brecks and was not satisfied with anything I ordered from either company. Cheap prices led to really cheap products...not worth it.

Answer 5

I've used e-bay several times and been very satisfied with the bulbs.

Answer 6

I like Brent & Becky's, lots of different stuff, and a very informative catalogue.
http://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/spring/