Summer-flowering bulbs: Expert-approved planting tips for a gorgeous garden
A summer garden in full bloom is a sight to behold. As our gardens shake off the dreary winter season, now is the ideal time to plant summer bloomers like dahlias, calla lilies, and freesias – planting summer bulbs in spring means you can enjoy beautiful colour right up until early autumn.
When should you plant summer-flowering bulbs?
Summer bulbs can be planted from mid-March to mid-June, as long as all risk of frost has passed. They can also be grown indoors and moved outside when the temperature rises.
'March is the best month to start planting summer-flowering bulbs, as the temperatures are slowly rising and the soil is warming up,' says John Collins, nursery manager at Somerset-based Ashridge. 'The ideal soil temperature for summer bulbs is around 13 degrees — planting them in colder soil may lead to root rot or prevent them from growing.'
What are the best summer-flowering bulbs to plant?
'If you want to add vibrant colours to your outdoor space, planting summer bulbs that will return year after year is a great option. Whether you prefer bold and bright blooms or delicate and fragrant flowers, there's a summer bulb out there for you,' say the experts at British Garden Centres.
For a burst of colour, the best ones to plant include:
Anemones
Begonias
Dahlias
Freesias
Gladioli
Lilies
Calla lilies
Bearded irises
Crocosmias
Liatris
Nerines
Cannas
Dahlia 'Rhubarb and Custard'
Pastel Freesia Mix
Tangerine dream dahlia collection
161 Summer Saver Bulb Collection
Waitrose Scented Flower Collection Bulbs
Lilium Forever Susan 10/12cm
When do summer-flowering bulbs bloom?
Summer bulbs typically bloom from June to August. The sooner you plant your bulbs, the sooner they will flower. Some summer bulbs come back every year, but not all. Examples of perennial bulbs include begonias, lilies, dahlias and gladioli.
What is the difference between spring and summer-flowering bulbs?
The main difference between spring and summer bulbs is when they are planted — and, of course, when they flower.
Spring bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, alliums and crocuses, are usually planted in the autumn between September and November. They flower in early spring after spending winter in the ground.
Summer bulbs are planted in spring, once the frost has passed. These bulbs flower in summer, often into the autumn months. Summer bulbs are also known as tender bulbs as they are not tolerant of cold temperatures.
How should you plant your summer-flowering bulbs for a dazzling display?
The best thing about bulbs is that they don't take up much space. Whether you plant yours in pots and containers or straight in the ground, place bulbs at least 20 centimetres beneath the soil. Keep the soil moist, but take care not to overwater.
'Be mindful of preparing the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure,' says John. 'This will provide all the nutrients your bulbs need to thrive and blossom with abundant flowering by summer.
'Mulching the area with organic material can help in both moisture retention and weed suppression, creating a favourable environment for growth.'
Don't forget to deadhead flowers to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. 'Keep feeding your plants with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season to enhance their performance and lead to more prolific blooms,' adds John.
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