When planting spring-flowering bulbs, the only problem is having to wait until next spring to see them come up. But if you plant fall-blooming ones, there's no delayed gratification. In fact, they'll flower three weeks after they're put in the ground.

There are two fall-blooming types: colchicum and crocus. Crocus looks similar to its spring-flowering cousin. It pops up amongst the fall leaves in shades of yellow and purple. Colchicum looks like larger crocus. Both of these typically bloom during September and October.

You can buy fall-blooming bulbs in garden centers and nurseries, or you may order them online, in late summer or early fall. Once you get your bulbs, it's important that you plant them right away. They'll appreciate a location that gets at least six hours of sun each day, and well-drained soil is a must. As far as planting goes, the smaller crocus should be planted so its tip is two inches below the soil surface. However, with the larger colchicum, dig a hole so its tip is four inches deep.