When to plant summer bulbs
The timing for planting summer bulbs can vary depending on your location and climate. As a general rule, summer bulbs should be planted in the spring when the soil has warmed up and there is no longer a risk of frost.
Here are some specific guidelines for planting some popular summer bulbs:
Dahlias – Dahlias should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area. In most regions, this is in late April or early May. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Dahlias are fantastic cut flowers and look stunning in a bouquet.
Gladiolus – Gladiolus should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun.
Lilies – Lilies can be planted in the spring or fall, but for summer blooming, they should be planted in the spring. They prefer well-drained soil and partial to full sun. Lilies are perfect for a bridal bouquet.
Cannas – Cannas should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Caladiums – Caladiums should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area. They prefer well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
When planting summer bulbs, it’s important to follow the planting instructions for each specific bulb variety, including planting depth and spacing. Providing proper soil preparation, fertilisation, and watering can help ensure successful growth and blooming of your summer bulbs.
What Dahlias are easy to grow?
Dahlias are a beautiful and popular summer-blooming flower that come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. While some dahlia varieties can be more difficult to grow than others, there are many varieties that are easy to grow and maintain. Here are a few easy-to-grow dahlia varieties:
‘Bishop of Llandaff’ – This variety has dark red flowers and dark foliage, making it a striking addition to any garden. It grows to a height of about 3 feet and blooms from midsummer to early autumn.
‘Cafe au Lait’ – This variety has large, creamy-white flowers with a hint of pink. It is a popular choice for weddings and other special events. It grows to a height of about 4 feet and blooms from midsummer to early autumn.
‘Mignon’ – This variety has small, pom-pom-like flowers in shades of pink, white, and red. It is a dwarf variety, growing to a height of about 18 inches, and blooms from midsummer to early autumn.
‘Spartacus’ – This variety has bright red flowers with a yellow center. It grows to a height of about 4 feet and blooms from midsummer to early autumn.
‘Yellow Star’ – This variety has bright yellow flowers with a star-like shape. It grows to a height of about 3 feet and blooms from midsummer to early autumn.
Overall, dahlias are easy to grow in well-drained soil with plenty of sunshine and regular watering. Deadheading spent flowers can help encourage more blooming throughout the season. With proper care and attention, these easy-to-grow dahlia varieties can provide a stunning display of color in your garden.
What Gladiolus is easy to grow?
Gladiolus are a popular summer-blooming flower that come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. While some gladiolus varieties can be more difficult to grow than others, there are many varieties that are easy to grow and maintain. Here are a few easy-to-grow gladiolus varieties:
‘Atom’ – This variety has bright red flowers with white accents. It grows to a height of about 3 feet and blooms in midsummer.
‘Green Star’ – This variety has green flowers with white accents. It grows to a height of about 4 feet and blooms in midsummer.
‘Priscilla’ – This variety has soft pink flowers with a white throat. It grows to a height of about 4 feet and blooms in midsummer.
‘Purple Flora’ – This variety has deep purple flowers with a white throat. It grows to a height of about 3 feet and blooms in midsummer.
‘White Friendship’ – This variety has pure white flowers with a yellow throat. It grows to a height of about 3 feet and blooms in midsummer.
Overall, gladiolus are easy to grow in well-drained soil with plenty of sunshine and regular watering. Planting them in a protected area that is sheltered from strong winds can also help prevent the tall flower spikes from falling over. With proper care and attention, these easy-to-grow gladiolus varieties can provide a beautiful display of color in your garden.
Are cannas easy to grow?
Yes, cannas are generally considered easy to grow and maintain. They are a tropical plant that thrives in warm weather and full sun, and they produce large, showy flowers in a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white.
Here are some reasons why cannas are easy to grow:
Tolerant of a wide range of soil types – Cannas can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is well-draining. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil can help improve soil health and fertility.
Drought-tolerant – Cannas are relatively drought-tolerant and can survive periods of dry weather. However, regular watering is still recommended, especially during hot, dry spells.
Prolific bloomer – Cannas produce large, showy flowers on tall spikes throughout the summer and into fall. Deadheading spent flowers can help encourage more blooming.
Low maintenance – Once established, cannas require very little maintenance beyond regular watering and occasional fertilization. They are relatively pest- and disease-resistant, and do not require pruning or staking.
Versatile – Cannas are versatile plants that can be grown in garden beds, containers, or as a focal point in a landscape. They can also be used as a backdrop for other plants or as a privacy screen.
Overall, cannas are a great choice for gardeners who want an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant that produces beautiful flowers all season long.
