Fireworks

Summer bulbs, with their exotic growth forms, splashy flowers and often mystic perfumes, are true scene stealers; 'The Drama Queens' of the summer border.

Most Summer Flowering bulbs hail from warm temperate- and sub tropical regions. They are often referred to as 'tender' bulbs, opposed to 'the hardier' bulbs we plant in the fall. Many, however, grow easily in US borders and are a lot hardier than commonly expected. Planted in sheltered spots in urban areas with some extra care s.a. a good winter mulch, many will survive zone 6-7 winter conditions after they have become established.

True Lilies and Crocosmia are the hardiest Summer Flowering Bulbs. They take little care and will bloom for years to come. Lilies come in a wide range of shapes and colors from which we selected the most suited garden types.

The smaller corms of easy and quick starters s.a.Acidanthera (Gladiolus callianthus), Crocosmia and the Lilium bulbs, are best planted directly at the site when ground temperature reaches 60 F in the spring. Scatter them around, 3-7 per spade dug planting hole (14-18 per square yard), through perennial borders, ornamental grasses or the cutting garden. These relative inexpensive spring bulbs are a real asset for every sunny informal summer border where they add subtle fireworks of color and fragrance.

Crinum, Eucomis, Galtonia, Hymenocallis, Nerine, Ornithogalum and Zanthedeschia (Calla lilies) are best planted in well defined garden spots, preferably in groups to grow into little colonies that can be easily protected by a good winter mulch. Look for extra protected spots, f.e. along brick walls and patios when you want to plant these varieties directly in the ground.

All Exotics are great container plants as well. Start them in early spring in containers in your plant yard. Pre-grown plants can be readily trans-planted into the garden; instant summer border additions, or used in patio container groupings to create a tropical feel.

Exciting Exotics for the Landscape

More Spring Planted Landscape bulbs