Imagine stepping into your garden on a warm summer day and being greeted by colorful blooms that brighten every corner of your yard. Planting bulbs in the spring is the secret to creating this magical summer garden.
So let’s explore everything you need to know about spring-planted bulbs, from choosing the right varieties to pairing them with other plants. Get ready to get your hands dirty and your garden blooming!
What are spring-planted bulbs?
Spring-planted bulbs – also known as summer bulbs or summer-flowering bulbs – are planted after the danger of frost has passed. They thrive in warmer soil and sunny conditions, beginning their growth in late spring and early summer and blooming during the summer months.
Spring-Planted Bulbs vs. Fall-Planted Bulbs
The main difference between these two types of bulbs is their planting time and blooming season. Their terminology can overlap (making it a bit confusing), but hopefully, this clears up the differences.
Fall-Planted Bulbs (aka, Spring-Flowering Bulbs)
- Examples: Tulips, daffodils, and Dutch irises
- Planted in the fall because they require a cold period (vernalization) to trigger blooming.
- Bloom in early to mid-spring, making them the first to add color to your garden after winter.
Spring-Planted Bulbs (aka, Summer-Flowering Bulbs)
- Examples: Gladiolus, freesias, and tuberous begonias
- Planted in spring, once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed.
- Bloom in summer to offer continuous color throughout the warmer months.
Planting summer-flowering bulbs is an easy and rewarding way to keep your garden fresh and full of life when the days get longer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, there’s a bulb out there waiting to make your summer spectacular!
Types of Spring-Planted Bulbs
Spring-planted bulbs offer endless opportunities to create a garden bursting with personality, color, and charm. From tall spikes to lush tropical leaves, here’s a closer look at some of the most popular bulbs to plant* in spring for spectacular summer blooms.
(*Though we provide information about each bulb type below, always check the planting instructions on bulb packages since planting requirements can vary by bulb type.)
Allium (Ornamental Onion)
Alliums produce globe-shaped clusters of tiny flowers atop tall, slender stems. They’re available in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow, adding texture and height to gardens.
How to Take Care of Them
- Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
- Water moderately since alliums are drought-tolerant once established.
- Fertilize lightly in spring to support healthy growth.
Planting Tips
- Plant bulbs 3–4 inches deep and about 12 inches apart.
- Group them in clusters for a striking architectural effect.
Bloom Time
Alliums bloom from late spring to early summer, bridging spring and summer flowers.
Caladiums
Caladiums are grown for their stunning foliage, which comes in shades of pink, red, white, and green with striking veining. They add vibrant color and texture, even in shaded areas.
How to Take Care of Them
- Caladiums thrive in partial to full shade and warm, humid environments.
- Plant in moist, well-drained soil and water regularly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting for sustained growth.
- Avoid cold temperatures – these plants prefer heat and do not tolerate frost.
Planting Tips
- Plant tubers 1–2 inches deep with the knobby side up.
- Space them 6–12 inches apart to allow for their spreading foliage.
Bloom Time
Caladiums usually don’t flower but will occasionally produce small white flowers. However, their vibrant foliage makes up for this. Leaves emerge in late spring and last throughout the summer.
Calla Lilies
Calla lilies are elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers that come in various colors, including white, yellow, orange, and purple. They are a favorite for both garden beds and cut arrangements.
How to Take Care of Them
- Calla lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
- Water regularly (especially during dry periods), but avoid overwatering.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks for healthy blooms.
Planting Tips
- Plant calla lily rhizomes 2–4 inches deep and 12 inches apart.
- Choose a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Bloom Time
Calla lilies bloom from early to mid-summer, depending on planting time and climate.
Cannas
Cannas are tropical showstoppers with bold, paddle-shaped leaves and vibrant red, orange, yellow, and pink flowers. Their striking foliage ranges from green to deep burgundy and adds visual interest to your garden (even when not in bloom).
How to Take Care of Them
- Cannas thrive in full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
- Regular watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer will keep them thriving.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and consider cutting back foliage in the fall to prepare for winter.
Planting Tips
- Plant canna rhizomes 4–6 inches deep and 12–24 inches apart (depending on the variety).
Bloom Time
Cannas bloom mid- to late summer and often continue blooming until the first frost.
Dahlias
Dahlias are the showstoppers of the garden. They offer a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. From small pom-poms to dinner-plate-sized blooms, they bring elegance and variety to flower beds.
How to Take Care of Them
- Dahlias prefer full sun and rich, well-drained soil.
- They’re heavy feeders, so mix compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting and continue feeding throughout the growing season.
- Water deeply 2–3 times a week, but avoid soggy soil to prevent rot.
- Pinching back the stems early encourages bushier growth.
Planting Tips
- Plant dahlia tubers 4–6 inches deep and 12–18 inches apart (depending on the variety).
- Larger varieties will need staking for support.
Bloom Time
Dahlias bloom in mid- to late summer and continue until the first frost.
Elephant Ears (Colocasia)
Elephant ears are prized for their massive, heart-shaped leaves that add a tropical feel to gardens. They come in shades of green, purple, and variegated patterns.
How to Take Care of Them
- Elephant ears prefer full sun to partial shade and consistently moist soil.
- Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support their large foliage.
- They require plenty of space, so avoid crowding them with smaller plants.
Planting Tips
- Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep with the pointed end facing up.
- Space them at least 24 inches apart since these plants grow large.
Bloom Time
While elephant ears rarely flower, their striking foliage emerges in late spring and lasts until the first frost.
Freesia
Freesias are known for their sweet fragrance and funnel-shaped flowers that come in vibrant colors like white, yellow, pink, red, and blue. They’re perfect for cutting gardens and container displays.
How to Take Care of Them
- Freesias prefer full sun to partial shade and sandy, well-drained soil.
- Water consistently during the growing season but reduce watering after blooms fade.
- Protect plants from strong winds to prevent damage to their delicate stems.
Planting Tips
- Plant corms 2 inches deep and 2–4 inches apart.
- Freesias thrive in borders, containers, or as cut flowers.
Bloom Time
Freesias bloom in summer, with their flowers lasting several weeks.
Garden Gloxinia
Garden Gloxinia features velvety, bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink, red, and white. These compact plants bring a tropical flair to shaded gardens, containers, or indoor spaces.
How to Take Care of Them
- Garden Gloxinia thrives in partial shade and rich, well-drained soil.
- Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilize every 2–4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Protect them from strong winds and extreme heat.
Planting Tips
- Plant tubers 1–2 inches deep and 6–8 inches apart.
Bloom Time
Garden Gloxinia blooms from mid- to late summer to add color to shaded spots in your garden.
Gladiolus
Gladiolus are known for their tall, elegant spikes adorned with trumpet-shaped blooms in nearly every color imaginable. They’re a favorite for adding height and drama to garden beds or creating stunning cut-flower arrangements.
How to Take Care of Them
- Gladiolus thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy (especially during their growing season).
- Staking will be needed for taller varieties to prevent them from bending under their own weight.
Planting Tips
- Plant gladiolus corms 4–6 inches deep and 6–8 inches apart.
- For continuous blooms all summer, plant new corms every two weeks from early spring through midsummer.
Bloom Time
Gladiolus typically blooms 8–12 weeks after planting to provide a steady supply of flowers all summer.
Liatris (Blazing Star)
Liatris is known for its tall, spiky blooms in purple, pink, or white shades. These flowers bloom from the top down, making them a striking addition to flower beds and bouquets. They also attract pollinators like butterflies and bees.
How to Take Care of Them
- Liatris thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Once established, they are drought-tolerant and require little watering.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and tidy the plants.
Planting Tips
- Plant liatris corms 2–4 inches deep and 6–8 inches apart.
- Group them in clusters for a fuller, more impactful display.
Bloom Time
Liatris blooms from mid- to late summer and often lasts into early fall.
Peacock Flower
Peacock flowers are exotic and striking. They have large, three-petaled blooms in vibrant shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow. Their intricate spotted centers resemble a peacock’s feathers, making them a showstopper in any garden.
How to Take Care of Them
- Peacock flowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Water deeply, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot.
- They prefer warm climates, so plant only after the danger of frost has passed.
Planting Tips
- Plant bulbs 3 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart.
- For best results, plant in clusters or groups for a fuller display.
Bloom Time
Peacock flowers bloom in mid to late summer. Flowers open in the morning and last just one day. But fortunately, each plant produces multiple blooms over several weeks.
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias have large, rose-like blooms in orange, pink, red, white, and yellow shades. They are ideal for hanging baskets, containers, or shaded garden areas.
How to Take Care of Them
- They prefer partial shade and rich, well-drained soil.
- Water consistently, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot.
- Avoid wetting the leaves and flowers to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.
Planting Tips
- Plant tubers with the hollow side facing up, about 1–2 inches deep and 6–8 inches apart.
- Start indoors in pots before moving them outdoors after the frost has passed.
Bloom Time
Tuberous begonias bloom from early summer to early fall, offering non-stop color in shaded spaces.
Best Spring-Planted Bulbs for Beginners
For first-time gardeners or those looking for low-maintenance options, these bulbs are the easiest to grow:
- Gladiolus: Easy to plant, requires minimal care, and blooms continuously.
- Dahlias: They’re forgiving and thrive with basic sun, soil, and watering care.
- Tuberous Begonias: Perfect for shaded areas and easy to maintain with simple watering and soil requirements.
- Caladiums: These thrive in shady areas with minimal maintenance.
- Liatris (Blazing Star): Drought-tolerant once established, they require little watering and are great for pollinator gardens.
- Allium (Ornamental Onion): Drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and needs minimal upkeep.
Preparing Your Garden for Spring Bulb Planting
By giving your garden the right foundation, you’ll have spring-planted bulbs that thrive and reward you with stunning summer flowers.
Soil Preparation
Preparing your soil before planting bulbs sets the foundation for healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Ideal Soil Types and Amendments
Bulbs grow best in loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Sandy or loamy soils work wonders since they allow bulbs to establish roots easily.
- If your soil is heavy clay or overly compacted, mix in compost, aged manure, or peat moss to improve its texture and fertility.
- Adding a small amount of sand will further boost drainage.
To understand more about your soil, read Test Your Soil to Grow What You Love.
Importance of Drainage
Good drainage is crucial for preventing bulb rot.
- Waterlogged soil will suffocate bulbs and lead to decay before they even sprout.
- To test your soil’s drainage, dig a hole and fill it with water. If the water takes more than an hour to drain, consider raising your garden bed or planting bulbs in containers with well-draining potting mix.
Planting Depth and Spacing
Proper planting depth and spacing give bulbs the best start by ensuring healthy root development and preventing overcrowding.
Tip: When measuring planting depth, measure from the top of the bulb to the soil surface. A simple rule of thumb is to plant bulbs two to three times as deep as the bulb’s height.
Spacing Bulbs
- Follow the recommended spacing in the above section for each bulb type to avoid overcrowding. Overlapping roots will compete for nutrients and water, leading to weaker plants.
- If you’re planting bulbs in clusters, aim for odd-numbered groupings (e.g., 3, 5, or 7) for a more natural, organic look.
- When mixing bulb varieties in the same area, group those with similar height and bloom times together for a cohesive display.
Planting Spring-Planted Bulbs
Planting bulbs is a simple process that promises big rewards.
When to Plant
Here’s how to make sure you’re planting at the right time for your region:
- Check frost dates: Wait until the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to about 50°F. In most regions, this means planting bulbs in early to mid-spring.
- Know your region: In warmer climates (Zones 8–10), spring-planted bulbs can often be planted as early as February or March. In cooler climates (Zones 3–7), planting typically begins in late April to early May once the soil is workable and frost-free.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
1. Choose the right location.
- Select a spot in your garden that matches the needs of your chosen bulbs.
- Check that the soil is well-draining to prevent bulb rot, and consider raised beds or containers if drainage is an issue.
2. Dig the hole to the recommended depth.
- Refer to the planting depth for each bulb type (see previous section).
- A simple rule of thumb is to dig a hole two to three times the bulb’s height. For example, a 2-inch bulb should be planted 4–6 inches deep.
3. Place the bulb with the pointed end up.
- Bulbs should be planted with the pointed side or growing tip facing upward.
- For tubers, like begonias and dahlias, look for the side with visible “eyes” or buds and place that side up.
4. Cover the bulbs with soil and water thoroughly.
- Once the bulb is in place, gently cover it with soil, being careful not to pack it down too tightly.
- After covering, water the area to help settle the soil and jumpstart root growth.
Caring for Your Spring-Planted Bulbs
Once your bulbs are planted, proper care keeps them growing strong and blooming beautifully.
Watering Schedule
For new bulbs: Water your bulbs thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root growth. During the first few weeks, as the bulbs establish themselves, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
For established bulbs: Once the spring-planted bulbs have sprouted, continue watering regularly (especially during dry spells). Most bulbs prefer about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Check the soil – if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.
Fertilizing Tips
Before planting: Mix a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or bulb-specific fertilizer into the soil before planting to give your bulbs a nutrient-rich start.
During growth: Apply a water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy foliage and blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing since this leads to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Post-bloom care: After the flowers fade, lightly fertilize to replenish the bulbs for the next growing season.
Staking Taller Plants
Some spring-planted bulbs grow tall and will need extra support to stay upright.
Bulbs that grow tall: Gladiolus, dahlias, cannas, Liatris, and peacock flower
When to stake: Stake plants as soon as they reach about 12 inches tall to avoid damage from strong winds or heavy blooms.
How to stake: Use bamboo stakes, garden twine, or plant-specific supports. Gently tie the stems to the stakes so there is some room for natural movement. For larger groupings, consider using a garden grid or trellis.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Protecting your bulbs from pests and diseases is crucial to maintaining a healthy garden.
Common Pests
- Aphids: Spray plants with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap to keep aphids at bay.
- Slugs and Snails: To deter these pests, use organic slug bait, crushed eggshells, or copper tape around plants.
- Rodents: To protect bulbs from squirrels and mice, consider planting them with wire mesh or sprinkling cayenne pepper around the planting area.
For more help with pests, check out Pest Control Solutions for a Successful Garden
Preventing Diseases
- Check for proper drainage to avoid root and bulb rot.
- Space plants appropriately to allow for good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
- Remove and dispose of any diseased foliage to prevent spreading.
What to Pair with Your Spring-Planted Bulbs
Companion planting is a smart and creative way to increase the beauty of your garden while helping your spring-planted bulbs thrive. By pairing bulbs with complementary plants, you’ll create stunning visual effects, improve soil health, and even ward off pests.
Accent Caladiums with Compact Annuals
Caladiums are grown for their striking foliage, so pair them with compact, low-growing annuals (like impatiens or browallia) to complement their leaves without competing for attention.
These companions thrive in similar shaded conditions and help fill the space around the caladiums. Read Shade Gardening that Lasts All Year Long for more shade gardening ideas.
Use Cannas to Add Structure to Mixed Beds
Cannas’ bold, tropical foliage and tall flowers are excellent for creating structure in mixed flower beds. Pair them with sprawling plants like sweet potato vines or colorful zinnias for a balanced look.
The cannas provide height and drama, while the lower plants fill the gaps with texture and color.
Combine Elephant Ears with Bold, Textured Plants
Elephant Ears’ massive, tropical leaves pair well with other bold plants like castor beans, cannas, or banana plants to create a lush, jungle-like garden.
Alternatively, balance their large size by planting low, delicate flowers like wax begonias or lobelia at their base.
Highlight Freesias with Fragrant Herbs
Freesias are highly fragrant, so pair them with aromatic herbs like lavender, rosemary, or thyme for a sensory-rich garden.
These herbs thrive in similar sunny, well-drained conditions and boost the visual and olfactory appeal of freesias.
Pair Tall Gladiolus with Shorter Annuals for a Layered Look
Gladiolus grow tall and dramatic, so plant them behind shorter annuals like petunias or marigolds to create depth and a layered effect.
The shorter flowers will also help hide the gladiolus stems, which sometimes look bare at the base.
Blend Liatris with Pollinator-Friendly Flowers
Liatris (Blazing Star) attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, so pair it with flowers like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, or salvia to create a pollinator-friendly garden.
This pairing adds both vertical interest and ecological benefits to your garden.
Group Peacock Flowers with Low-Growing Ground Covers
Peacock Flowers are exotic and vibrant, making them a stunning focal point.
Surround them with low-growing ground covers like creeping thyme or sedum to highlight their blooms and keep the area around them tidy and visually appealing.
Mix in Tuberous Begonias with Shade-Tolerant Perennials
Tuberous begonias love partial to full shade, making them perfect companions for shade-tolerant perennials like hostas or ferns.
Their bright colors will pop against the lush green foliage of these plants to add vibrancy to shaded areas.
Pro Tip: Mix in Plants That Deter Pests
Adding plants like lavender, garlic, or marigolds near your bulbs to help ward off pests like aphids and rodents. This gives your bulbs extra protection while adding variety to your garden.
Why Spring Bulb Planting Is Worth It
Planting spring bulbs is a simple yet transformative step toward creating a stunning summer garden. And with so many options, there’s a spring bulb for every style and space.
What are you waiting for? Visit Wilco Farm Store to stock up on bulbs, tools, and everything you need to bring your summer garden to life.
Start planting today, and look forward to a season filled with color, fragrance, and joy!
