Bulbs, cuttings, and seedlings can all be sowed quicker and easier with the right tools. A bulb planter can be used to make fast, uniformly measured holes across your garden to streamline the planting process. The hole it creates is perfect for bulbs but also works for small cuttings and seedlings as well. These are the best bulb planters in a few different shapes and sizes.
ProPlugger 5-in-1 lawn and garden tool
Back-saving design
If crouching over the dirt is not your favorite gardening posture, a standing bulb planter can prevent a lot of strain on the knees and back.
Pros:
- Works from a standing position
- Can be used for planting, transplanting, plugging sod, weeding, and more
- Creates holes up to 6-inches deep
Cons:
- It's expensive
Whether you're planting bulbs or plugging sod, this ProPlugger works quickly and easily from a standing position. You can use your hands and feet to create uniform holes without bending or crouching. It's excellent for anyone who suffers from back or joint pain. You can adjust it to dig 2, 4, or 6-inch holes.
Edward Tools bulb planter
The sensible choice
For a straightforward choice that works well for a good price, this simple planter from Edward Tools fits the bill.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to use
- Affordable
- Bend-proof frame
Cons:
- Not intended for hard, dry soil
Don't overthink it. If you just need a basic bulb planter, this one from Edward Tools will make holes up to 6-inches deep with very little effort. The automatic soil-release function makes the job even quicker. Keep in mind that for this type of planter, it's better to start with loose or pre-tilled soil.
FLORA GUARD bulb planter
Precise planting
The Flora Guard Bulb Planter comes with precise markings to indicate how deep the bulb will be planted.
Pros:
- Clearly marked depth measurements
- Anti-corrosion coating
- Spring-loaded soil release
Cons:
- Only plants to depths of 4 inches
Another compact, handheld planter, the Flora Guard is marked for precise depth measuring. Although it will only create holes up to 4-inches deep, this is sufficient for most types of bulbs. The quick soil release mechanism makes it easy to use, and the steel surface is coated to withstand corrosion and rust.
Yard Butler bulb and garden planter
The big one
Here's a full-size, heavy-duty planter that's made from powder-coated steel for resilience and longevity.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Large 3-by-6-inch barrel
- Standing design prevents back and knee pain
Cons:
- It's expensive
The Yard Butler is a robust, multi-functional planter with a larger barrel that can be used for any number of gardening tasks. Since the larger design digs larger holes, the planter is also great for sod plugging, weeding, and some types of transplanting. The powder-coated steel will last for years and promises not to rust. The best part is that this is a standing tool, so you don't need to bend or crouch to use it.
Berry&Bird garden bulb planter
Fancy planting
Berry&Bird offers a traditionally handled planter that's made by hand from quality materials.
Pros:
- Traditional look and feel
- Long-lasting build
- Excellent materials
Cons:
- No automatic soil release feature
If you like to garden the old-school way, this is a bulb planter that looks and feels a lot like the one your grandma probably owned. The traditional wood and steel design is handcrafted for quality and longevity. Although it doesn't have a spring-loaded soil release, the tool is simple and easy to operate. This bulb planter can also be used for weeding and transplanting.
Espace Auger drill bit for planting
The real deal
If your bulb planting requires speed and efficiency, a drill may be necessary. This is the ideal auger drill bit for planting bulbs.
Pros:
- Fast and efficient
- Heavy-duty materials
- Makes bulb planting easy
Cons:
- Requires a drill
For landscapers and serious gardeners, there's no time to waste. An auger drill bit like this one will make bulb planting much faster and more efficient. The powerful blades drill holes into the dirt in seconds. It even works for hard-packed, dry soil.
Planting made perfect
Don't wait to plant your bulbs! They can take months to come up, so it's best to get your bulb planters sooner rather than later. I'd go with the ProPlugger since the design is not so hard on your back and knees. This one also works for a variety of other gardening tasks as well.
If you're looking for something compact and affordable, the Edward Tools bulb planter will be a great fit. The small, lightweight size makes it easy to carry and use, and it comes in at a nice low price point. Consider your gardening style and pick the best bulb planter for your green thumb.
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