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Planting summer-blooming bulbs is a simple way to keep your garden full of color as the season unfolds. These bulbs are easy to grow and bring bold, beautiful blooms.
Here are nine summer bulbs that will add vibrant color to your outdoor space all season.
Dahlia
Dahlias are loved for their vibrant, showy blooms. They come in a wide array of colors and sizes and are a favorite among pollinators. Whether used in flower beds, borders, or containers, dahlias add a burst of color and charm to any outdoor space.
Blooming from mid-summer until the first frost, these perennials thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. They are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Eucomis (Pineapple Lily)
Eucomis, commonly known as pineapple lily, is a summer-blooming bulb with striking, unusual flowers that resemble a pineapple, thanks to the tufted cluster at the top of its sturdy stem. This unique appearance gives the plant its popular name.
Flowering from late summer through early autumn, Eucomis is easy to grow and adds a tropical flair to sunny borders or sheltered gardens. They come in shades of white, pink, and violet.
Gladiolus
These summer-flowering bulbs are a favorite for adding vertical interest to garden beds. Plant them in spring for a spectacular display of blooms from mid-summer to fall.
Gladiolus are low-maintenance; they thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7-10 and need regular watering and fertilization for healthy growth. Gladiolus attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Daylilies
Daylilies are a staple of summer gardens, known for their stunning beauty and intoxicating fragrance. These beauties attract all sorts of pollinators, from butterflies to bees.
Daylilies, with their elegant blooms, come in many varieties, from delicate Asiatic lilies to Oriental hybrids. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, preferring well-drained soil and partial to full sun. Adequate moisture and regular fertilization are needed when growing lilies.
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Begonia
Begonias are beloved for their lush foliage and vibrant blooms in many colors and shapes, ranging from upright bedding begonias to cascading tuberous begonias. Thriving in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, they prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them perfect for summer blooms.
Begonias may attract pests like slugs, snails, and aphids. Soft pest control measures, such as handpicking or organic repellents, can help mitigate these issues without damaging the blooms.
Canna Lily
These heat-loving plants come in fiery reds, sunny yellows, and rich oranges. Cannas thrive in USDA hardiness zones 7-10, preferring full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
While cannas attract pollinators, they may be susceptible to pests like caterpillars and spider mites, so it’s important to monitor them constantly for signs of infestation to preserve their health. Opt for organic solutions to prevent harm to the flowers.
Calla Lily
Calla lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms, add a touch of sophistication to any garden. These stunning bulbs prefer partial shade or indirect sunlight and thrive in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. Calla lilies are planted in early spring to ensure blooms from late spring to early summer.
Agapanthus
Agapanthus, also known as the Blue Lily of the Nile, produces large clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white.
These perennial bulbs must be planted in early spring to bloom in late summer. They do well in USDA hardiness zones 7-11. There are many varieties of Agapanthus, but the most popular ones are ‘Peter Pan,’ ‘Midnight Blue,’ and ‘Twister.’
Liatris
Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, is native to North America. It is characterized by tall spikes of densely packed purple or pinkish-purple florets that bloom from top to bottom in summer and early fall.
Because of its shape, Liatris attracts pollinators and adds vertical interest to gardens. Liatris thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.
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