Complete Gardening
June may seem late for planting bulbs, but many summer blooms can still grace your garden. These flowers offer vibrant colors and unique shapes that can bring life to any landscape.
Even if you miss the early spring planting season, these selections ensure a beautiful payoff later in the year. Discover which bulbs are ideal for planting now and which can wait until fall for their best display.
1. Dahlias
Dahlias bring drama to any garden. With blooms as big as dinner plates, these flowers offer a show-stopping display. Plant them in well-drained soil with ample sunlight for the best results. Dahlias thrive in a range of colors, from bold reds to soft pastels. Did you know these beauties originate from Mexico? Their diverse forms, ranging from pom-poms to spiky cactus shapes, provide endless possibilities. Water regularly, especially in dry periods, to keep them thriving. As they bloom late into the season, you’ll enjoy their beauty well past summer’s end.
2. Gladiolus
Gladiolus stands tall and proud, with elegant spikes that add height to any flowerbed. Known as the ‘sword lily,’ its blooms come in a rainbow of hues. Plant these corms in well-drained soil, ensuring ample space for growth. Gladiolus can be planted in succession for continuous blooms throughout summer. These flowers originated in South Africa, known for their heat-loving nature. A favorite for cut flower arrangements, they’re both striking and versatile. With regular watering, they’ll reward you with vibrant displays from midsummer onwards.
3. Caladiums
Caladiums are all about foliage. Their large, heart-shaped leaves come alive with patterns of red, pink, and white. Perfect for shaded areas, they add a splash of color where flowers may not thrive. Originally from South America, these plants prefer warm, humid conditions. Plant them in rich, well-draining soil, and watch as they transform your garden into a tropical paradise. Caladiums are low maintenance; just ensure they’re protected from strong winds. Their vibrant leaves make them a captivating addition to any landscape.
4. Canna Lilies
Canna Lilies offer a taste of the tropics with their bold foliage and bright blooms. These plants are perfect for borders or as focal points in containers. Originating from tropical regions, they thrive in warm temperatures and full sun. Canna Lilies boast large, banana-like leaves and flowers in striking reds, oranges, and yellows. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and benefit from regular fertilization. With their fast growth, they can quickly fill a space with lush greenery and vibrant color throughout the summer.
5. Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous Begonias are shade-loving gems. Their extravagant blooms bring elegance to any garden. With flowers resembling roses, they thrive in cooler, shaded spots. These begonias require well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Originating from the Andes in South America, they handle cooler climates well. Their blooms, in pinks, yellows, and whites, add a touch of luxury to hanging baskets and pots. Just remember to protect them from harsh sun and wind. Tuberous Begonias reward care with abundant, beautiful flowers all summer long.
6. Elephant Ears (Colocasia)
Elephant Ears make a bold statement in any garden with their massive, heart-shaped leaves. These tropical plants are perfect for creating a lush, exotic feel. Native to Southeast Asia, they thrive in warm, humid environments. Plant them in rich, moist soil, providing plenty of space for their expansive growth. Elephant Ears require regular watering to maintain their impressive foliage. Ideal for borders or as a focal point, they add drama and texture to gardens. Enjoy their striking presence and the tropical vibe they bring.
7. Calla Lilies
Calla Lilies exude elegance with their smooth, curved blooms and rich green leaves. These flowers are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to gardens or containers. Native to southern Africa, they thrive in well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Calla Lilies bloom in various shades, from classic white to soft pinks and purples. Place them in sunny to partially shaded areas for optimal growth. Known for their resilience, they are a favorite in floral arrangements. Watch them transform your space with their graceful presence.
8. Acidanthera (Peacock Orchid)
Acidanthera, or Peacock Orchids, captivate with their delicate, star-shaped blooms. These fragrant flowers add an exotic touch to gardens, blooming late in the season. Originating from eastern Africa, they thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Plant them in groups for a striking display, and enjoy their sweet scent on warm evenings. Peacock Orchids are perfect for borders or mixed flower beds. Their unique appearance and pleasant aroma make them a garden favorite, offering elegance and charm well into the autumn months.
9. Montbretia (Crocosmia)
Montbretia, or Crocosmia, brings fiery color to gardens with its arching stems and bold blooms. These plants are easy to grow, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Originating from South Africa, they love warm conditions and require little maintenance. Montbretia’s striking red and orange flowers attract pollinators, making them a lively addition to any garden. Plant in groups for a dramatic effect or alongside other perennials for a vibrant contrast. Their long-lasting blooms add zest and a tropical flair to summer landscapes.
10. Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes)
Rain Lilies, or Zephyranthes, surprise with their delicate blooms, emerging after summer showers. These star-like flowers come in soft pinks and whites, adding subtle beauty to gardens. Native to the Americas, they thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant them in clusters for a naturalized effect, and enjoy their sporadic, enchanting blooms throughout summer. Rain Lilies are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established, making them perfect for rock gardens or borders. Their unexpected flowering adds a touch of magic.
11. Pineapple Lily (Eucomis)
Pineapple Lilies intrigue with their unusual flower spikes that resemble tiny pineapples. These South African natives thrive in sunny gardens with well-drained soil. Their strap-like leaves and quirky blooms add texture and interest to landscapes. Plant them in groups for a bold display, and enjoy their long-lasting flowers from summer into early fall. Pineapple Lilies are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only regular watering and occasional feeding. Their distinctive appearance makes them a conversation piece, adding whimsy to any garden setting.
12. Spider Lily (Hymenocallis)
Spider Lilies enchant with their graceful, spider-like blooms and sweet fragrance. Originating from the Americas, these plants thrive in sunny, well-drained spots. Their striking white flowers bloom on tall stems, adding vertical interest. Ideal for coastal gardens, Spider Lilies tolerate sandy soils and salt spray. Plant them in groups for a captivating display, and enjoy their aromatic presence. With minimal care, they reward gardeners with stunning blooms from late summer into fall. Their ethereal beauty and scent create a serene garden atmosphere.
13. Mexican Shell Flower (Tigridia)
Mexican Shell Flowers dazzle with their vibrant, tri-petaled blooms. These striking flowers, native to Mexico, thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Plant them in masses for a bold statement, and enjoy their vivid colors from mid-summer onwards. Each flower lasts only a day, but they bloom in succession, ensuring a continuous display. Mexican Shell Flowers attract pollinators, adding life to your garden. They’re low-maintenance and ideal for cutting gardens or borders. Their exotic appearance makes them a standout choice for any flower lover.
14. Freesia
Freesias charm with their sweet scent and delicate, funnel-shaped flowers. These South African natives are perfect for adding fragrance and color to gardens or containers. Plant them in sunny, well-drained areas, and enjoy their blooms from late summer into fall. Freesias come in various colors, including whites, yellows, pinks, and purples, offering a pastel palette. They’re popular in bouquets for their beauty and aroma. With regular watering and a bit of patience, Freesias reward with plentiful blooms and delightful fragrance.
15. Oxalis (Wood Sorrel)
Oxalis, or Wood Sorrel, is a charming addition to gardens with its clover-like leaves and petite flowers. These plants thrive in well-drained soil with partial shade, making them ideal for woodland gardens. Originating from diverse regions, they adapt well to different climates. Oxalis comes in shades of pink, yellow, and white, adding soft color to the garden. Plant them in masses for a carpet-like effect, and enjoy their low-maintenance nature. These plants also make great ground covers, offering a delicate touch to any landscape.
1. Tulips
Tulips are spring favorites known for their iconic, cup-shaped blooms. These bulbs are best planted in the fall for a vibrant spring display. Originating from Central Asia, Tulips thrive in well-drained soil with full sun. They come in nearly every color imaginable, adding a pop of color to gardens. Tulips are versatile, perfect for flower beds, borders, or containers. While they require a chilling period, their stunning blooms make it worth the wait. Their classic elegance and variety ensure they remain garden staples.
2. Daffodils
Daffodils herald spring with their bright, cheerful blooms. These bulbs should be planted in the fall to ensure a vibrant display. Originating from Europe, Daffodils flourish in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Their sunny yellow and white flowers are synonymous with the season’s renewal. Perfect for naturalizing, they spread easily and return yearly. Daffodils are low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and make excellent cut flowers. Their iconic trumpets bring joy and warmth to gardens after a long winter, uplifting any landscape.
3. Hyacinths
Hyacinths captivate with their dense, fragrant flower spikes. These bulbs are planted in the fall for a springtime spectacle. Native to the eastern Mediterranean, Hyacinths thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Their blooms come in a range of colors, including purples, pinks, and blues. Hyacinths are popular for their strong scent, often used in perfumes. They’re ideal for borders or containers, filling gardens with fragrance and color. As spring arrives, these flowers announce their presence with vibrant hues and delightful aromas.
4. Alliums
Alliums add architectural interest with their tall, spherical blooms. Plant these bulbs in the fall for a late spring display. Originating from Central Asia, they prefer sunny locations with well-drained soil. Alliums come in various sizes and colors, including purple and white, providing bold focal points. They’re excellent for adding height to borders or as cut flowers. Alliums are drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, requiring minimal maintenance. Their unique, globe-like flowers bring intrigue and structure to gardens, making them a favorite among designers.
5. Crocus
Crocuses signal the end of winter with their early blooms. These bulbs are best planted in the fall to greet spring with color. Hailing from Europe and Asia, Crocuses thrive in sunny, well-drained spots. Their delicate, cup-shaped flowers come in shades of purple, yellow, and white. Perfect for naturalizing, they spread easily and create a carpet of color. Crocuses are hardy and low-maintenance, ideal for rock gardens or lawns. As one of the first flowers to bloom, they bring hope and cheer to any garden.