Summer bulbs are a simple way to achieve spectacular summer flowers! They bloom for months, bring vibrant color to borders, and make lovely cut flowers. Here are four of our favourite summer bulbs to buy and plant now.
- Gladioli
- Dahlias
- Lilies
- Begonias
Gladioli
Gladioli bring dramatic height and colour to borders with their tall spikes of stunning blooms, available in a spectrum from soft pastels to bold reds and yellows. Their striking flowers are also highly prized for arrangements. In warmer regions, mulch the bulbs for overwintering and enjoy their return in spring. For earlier blooms, start bulbs indoors in pots during early spring, or plant directly outdoors in late spring. Ensure well-drained soil in full sun; incorporate grit into potting compost for optimal drainage.
Dahlias
The remarkable diversity of dahlias encompasses a wide spectrum of shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from compact pompom flowers to large, showy dinnerplate varieties. These prolific bloomers provide a continuous display of flowers throughout the summer and autumn months, particularly with consistent deadheading, and are highly valued as cut flowers. Initiate tuber growth indoors in pots filled with moist multipurpose compost, maintaining a warm environment and refraining from watering until shoots emerge. Once shoots develop several pairs of leaves, pinch out the growing tips to encourage branching. If tubers produce more than five stems, selectively remove excess shoots to direct the plant’s energy towards developing a robust structure. Transplant the plants to a sunny location in the garden once the threat of frost has subsided.
Lilies
Lilies, from fragrant Orientals to elegant tigers, bring glamour and flair to gardens and containers. With ample sun, food, and water, they offer a breathtaking display. Plant bulbs directly outdoors from autumn to spring in well-drained soil enriched with compost. Oriental lilies prefer acidic soil or ericaceous compost in pots, while others thrive in neutral or alkaline soil or multipurpose compost. For heavy clay soils, pot planting is recommended.
Begonias
For vibrant, long-lasting summer displays in pots and hanging baskets, tuberous begonias are ideal. Their bold, colorful flowers are easy to grow and require minimal upkeep. Plant tubers indoors in spring, concave side up, in multipurpose compost. Water and keep warm. Pot on as they grow, and move outdoors after frost risk has passed.
Plant summer bulbs now for a garden bursting with vibrant color all season long! Explore our wide selection of fantastic summer bulbs at Carpenters Nursery in St.Albans.
