We often think of planting bulbs for spring colour, but there are many summer-flowering bulbs that can brighten up the garden. These flowers are more common in warm climates, where the bulbs can be left in the ground all year. Here are five summer-blooming bulbs to consider for your garden.
1. Dahlias
Dahlias can bloom all summer long, and with so many varieties to choose from. 'Myrtle's Folly’ variety of Dahlia has large ruffled blooms in shades of coral-pink and yellow from summer to fall, and 'Rembrandt,' Dahlia has a neat, compact habit and can adorn patio pots with soft pink blooms all season. If you want to include flowers that attract bees, choose dahlias with single flowers.
2. Begonias
Begonias, another summer bulb that can flower throughout the season and into late fall, tolerate both shade and full sun. There are many options, including begonia 'Angelique,' which has multiple, large blooms from summer to the first frosts and has a lovely fragrance. Begonia 'Picotee Sunburst,' on the other hand, will bring zingy colour to a lightly shaded area from summer to late fall. 'It's an excellent choice for patio containers or borders.
3. Canna Lily
The lush, colourful foliage of canna lilies adds a jungle vibe to borders and containers all season and is topped off with a vibrant flower in late summer. When grouped together in borders, these tall, narrow plants look fantastic. Cannas are among the exotic plants popular and are available in multiple colour options.
4. Agapanthus
Agapanthus has fantastic, large globe-shaped flower heads that are usually purple, blue, or white, making them an excellent addition to your summer bulb collection. You do need to restrict its roots to get agapanthus to grow. You must ensure that they have excellent drainage. Adding grit to the compost and putting three plants in a pot that's just big enough.
5. Pineapple Lily- Eucomis
'The pineapple lily, Eucomis, adds an exotic touch to a planting. Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy’ has pale pink flowers and maroon flushed leaves, near the front of a border to provide architectural presence. They're also great plants for growing under glass if you're building a greenhouse.
Slightly tender, they require good drainage and a sheltered location to thrive all year and they grow best in terracotta pots in colder gardens.
Dahlias, begonias, and cannas are examples of plants that bloom throughout the season. When you combine these with bulbs that bloom at different times, you'll have a constantly changing flower bed display.
