The best bulbs for spring

Spring is the ideal time to plan for a garden that bursts into color in the summer. By planting bulbs now, you'll set the stage for a vibrant and visually stunning garden come the warmer months. Bulbs are an easy and effective way to add layers of beauty, fragrance, and texture to your landscape. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small patio, the right bulbs can create a show-stopping display. In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best spring-planted bulbs to ensure your garden is filled with beautiful blooms all summer long.

Why Plant Bulbs in Spring?

While many bulbs are planted in the fall for spring blooms, there are plenty of bulbs that should be planted in spring to bloom in the summer. These include summer-flowering bulbs, which thrive when given time to establish roots in the soil before they begin to flower. The key benefits of planting bulbs in the spring include:

1. Extended Blooms: Spring planting allows for a variety of blooms that last throughout the summer.
2. Low Maintenance: Once planted, many bulbs require little care, making them ideal for busy gardeners.
3. Visual Impact: Bulbs provide a high-impact garden display with minimal effort.
4. Versatility: Bulbs work well in containers, garden beds, or along walkways.

Best Bulbs for a Summer Garden

Here are some of the best bulbs to plant in the spring to ensure your summer garden is full of color, texture, and life:

1. Lilies (Lilium)

Lilies are a classic choice for summer gardens, known for their large, trumpet-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance. There are many varieties to choose from, including Asiatic lilies, Oriental lilies, and trumpet lilies. These bulbs should be planted in spring, ideally after the last frost, as they require warm soil to thrive. Lilies will bloom in mid to late summer, depending on the variety. They come in a wide range of colors, from bright yellows and oranges to deep pinks, reds, and whites.

• Planting Tips: Plant lilies in well-draining soil in a location that gets full sun to partial shade. Space the bulbs about 6-8 inches apart for best growth.

2. Dahlias

Dahlias are another fantastic bulb for late-summer color. These flowers are available in a stunning array of shapes, sizes, and colors, from vibrant reds and yellows to soft pastels. Dahlias bloom from mid-summer until the first frost, providing long-lasting beauty. These bulbs are best planted in late spring after the danger of frost has passed. They thrive in full sun and can be grown in the ground or in containers.

• Planting Tips: Dig a hole about 6 inches deep, and plant dahlias with the "eye" (the small shoot or bud) facing upward. Water them well after planting, but avoid overwatering.

3. Gladiolus

Gladiolus bulbs (or corms) produce tall, striking flower spikes that are perfect for creating a dramatic visual statement in your summer garden. These flowers bloom from mid-summer to fall, depending on when they are planted. Gladiolus are available in a range of colors, including white, pink, purple, red, and yellow. The spiky blooms make them excellent for cutting and using in floral arrangements.

• Planting Tips: Plant gladiolus bulbs in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. Space the corms 6 inches apart, and plant them about 4-6 inches deep. Plant them in succession, starting in late spring, for a continuous bloom throughout the summer.

4. Canna Lilies

Canna lilies are tropical plants that add a bold, exotic flair to any garden. Their large, showy flowers come in a variety of hues, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. These bulbs are not cold-hardy, so they should be planted in late spring, once the soil has warmed up. Cannas thrive in full sun and are perfect for creating a tropical feel in your summer garden. In addition to their vibrant blooms, canna lilies have large, dramatic leaves that add architectural interest.

• Planting Tips: Canna lilies should be planted in rich, well-draining soil. Bury the rhizomes 3-4 inches deep and space them about 12-18 inches apart. They will require regular watering, especially during hot summer months.

5. Begonias

Begonias are an excellent choice for adding both color and texture to shaded areas of your garden. They are available in many colors, including pink, red, white, and orange, with some varieties offering beautifully variegated foliage. Begonias will bloom from late spring into the fall, and they’re particularly well-suited for hanging baskets or containers, making them versatile for both gardens and patios.

• Planting Tips: Plant begonia tubers in a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. They prefer indirect sunlight and should be planted with the concave side facing up. Keep them consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.

6. Alliums

Alliums, known for their large, spherical flower heads, are a great addition to any summer garden. The blooms are composed of tiny star-shaped flowers that form a globe-like cluster, creating a dramatic effect. Alliums come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small ornamental varieties to larger, more striking forms. These bulbs are typically planted in the spring and will bloom in mid to late summer.

• Planting Tips: Alliums should be planted in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. Space them about 4-6 inches apart and plant them 3-4 inches deep. They require little maintenance once established.

7. Crocosmia

Crocosmia is a stunning bulb that produces clusters of tubular, orange or red flowers on tall, arching stems. This bulb is perfect for adding a touch of bold color and a bit of drama to your garden. Crocosmia blooms in late summer to early fall, and its flowers attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.

• Planting Tips: Plant crocosmia in well-drained soil and full sun for optimal growth. Space the bulbs about 6 inches apart and plant them 4 inches deep. They do best in warmer climates but can be grown in most regions with proper care.

Conclusion

Spring is the perfect time to plant summer-blooming bulbs that will provide your garden with beautiful color, texture, and fragrance during the warmer months. From lilies and dahlias to gladiolus and begonias, there are a wide variety of bulbs to choose from to suit your garden’s style and needs. By planting these bulbs in spring, you’ll ensure your garden becomes a visual feast of vibrant blooms, keeping it lively and colorful all summer long.

Remember, while bulbs are relatively low-maintenance, they still benefit from regular watering and good soil drainage. With the right care, these bulbs will reward you with years of stunning blooms.