Complete Gardening
Gardening is a delightful way to connect with nature, and there’s no shortage of inspiration when it comes to planting bulbs and tubers. These bulbous plants are not only easy to grow but also offer a colorful display that can transform any garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these 20 plants provide an exciting range of options to beautify your outdoor space.
From vibrant spring blooms to hardy perennials, let’s explore these wonderful plants that can be grown from bulbs and tubers, bringing texture and color to your garden all year round.
1. Snowdrops
Snowdrops are charming little plants that herald the arrival of spring. Their delicate white blooms are often the first to emerge, sometimes even through the late winter snow. This resilience makes them a favorite among gardeners.
Plant snowdrop bulbs in the fall for a beautiful display come February or March. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer a dappled shade location. For an extra touch of magic, plant them in clusters to create a carpet effect.
Snowdrops symbolize hope and renewal, making them a meaningful addition to any garden.
2. Garlic
Garlic is not only a kitchen staple but also a rewarding plant to grow in your garden. Plant garlic cloves in the fall for a summer harvest.
Each clove will form a new bulb, providing you with a fresh supply. Garlic needs full sun and well-drained soil to flourish. It’s incredibly low-maintenance and can even deter pests from your garden.
Besides its culinary uses, garlic offers health benefits like boosting immunity. With its easy growth and versatility, garlic is a must-have for gardeners and cooks alike.
3. Tulips
Tulips are synonymous with spring, offering a burst of color that lights up gardens. They’re available in a wide range of hues and shapes, making them adaptable to any garden design.
Plant tulip bulbs in the fall for a stunning spring show. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny spot to thrive. To extend the blooming period, choose early, mid, and late-season varieties.
Tulips are perfect for borders, containers, or as cut flowers, bringing joy and elegance to any setting.
4. Iris
Iris flowers are known for their striking beauty and intricate patterns. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, and yellow.
Plant iris bulbs or rhizomes in late summer or early fall for a late spring bloom. These plants thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Iris symbolizes wisdom and hope, making it a meaningful choice for any garden. Their unique appearance makes them a standout feature in any landscape.
5. Allium
Allium, with its globe-like flower heads, adds a whimsical touch to any garden. These plants are related to onions and garlic, and they’re easy to grow.
Plant allium bulbs in the fall for a summer display. They do best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Alliums are fantastic for adding height and structure, and they attract pollinators like bees. Their architectural flowers create a stunning focal point in borders or mixed beds.
6. Daffodils
Daffodils are cheerful spring bloomers that bring vibrant color to gardens. With their sunny yellow petals, they are a symbol of new beginnings.
Plant daffodil bulbs in the fall for a stunning spring show. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade.
Daffodils are versatile and can be used in borders, containers, or naturalized in lawns. Their easy care and bright blooms make them a favorite among gardeners.
7. Crocus
Crocuses are one of the first flowers to appear in spring, often emerging through the snow. Their bright, goblet-shaped blooms are a delightful sight.
Plant crocus corms in the fall for a vibrant display in early spring. They do well in well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade.
Crocuses are ideal for rock gardens, borders, or lawns, where they can naturalize and spread. Their early blooms provide vital nectar for pollinators.
8. Hyacinths
Hyacinths are known for their intense fragrance and dense spikes of colorful blooms. They are a perfect choice for adding scent and beauty to your garden or home.
Plant hyacinth bulbs in the fall for a spring bloom. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Hyacinths are versatile and can be grown in borders, containers, or forced indoors. Their sweet scent makes them a popular choice for entryways or windowsills.
9. Anemones
Anemones, known for their simple yet striking blooms, are a wonderful addition to any garden. They come in a variety of colors, including red, blue, and white.
Plant anemone tubers in the spring or fall for a vibrant display. They do well in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Anemones are excellent for borders or as cut flowers. Their bright colors and delicate petals add a touch of elegance and movement to the garden.
10. Begonias
Begonias offer a burst of color and are perfect for shady spots in your garden. They produce clusters of flowers in various colors, including pink, red, and white.
Plant begonia tubers in the spring after the last frost. They prefer well-drained soil and dappled shade.
Begonias are excellent for containers, hanging baskets, or borders. Their vibrant blooms and attractive foliage make them a versatile choice for adding color and interest.
11. Cannas
Cannas are bold and tropical, bringing an exotic touch to gardens with their large, vibrant blooms. They come in a range of colors, including red, yellow, and orange.
Plant canna rhizomes in the spring for a summer to fall display. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Cannas are perfect for borders or as a focal point in the garden. Their tall stature and lush foliage add drama and interest to any landscape.
12. Calla Lilies
Calla lilies are known for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms, adding a touch of sophistication to any garden. They are available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and purple.
Plant calla lily bulbs in the spring after the last frost. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade.
Calla lilies are ideal for borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Their graceful blooms and striking foliage make them a popular choice for both formal and informal gardens.
13. Dahlias
Dahlias are a gardener’s delight, offering an array of colors, shapes, and sizes. They’re perfect for adding a dramatic touch to any garden.
Plant dahlia tubers in the spring after the last frost for a summer to fall bloom. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Dahlias make excellent cut flowers and are perfect for borders or containers. With their stunning blooms, they are guaranteed to be a showstopper in any garden setting.
14. Freesias
Freesias are cherished for their delightful fragrance and stunning blooms. These plants come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and purple.
Plant freesia corms in the spring for a summer display. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Freesias are ideal for borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Their sweet scent and vibrant colors make them a charming addition to any garden.
15. Gladiolus
Gladiolus are spectacular for their tall flower spikes and vibrant colors, making them a favorite for garden displays. They come in a wide range of hues, perfect for any color scheme.
Plant gladiolus corms in late spring for a summer bloom. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Gladiolus are excellent for cutting and make beautiful arrangements. Their striking appearance adds height and drama to any garden.
16. Lilies
Lilies offer elegance and a sweet fragrance, making them a classic choice for gardens. They come in a range of colors, including white, pink, and orange.
Plant lily bulbs in the spring or fall for a summer bloom. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Lilies are perfect for borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Their tall, graceful blooms add a touch of sophistication to any garden setting.
17. Ranunculus
Ranunculus are known for their rose-like, layered blooms that add elegance to any garden. They come in various colors, including pink, yellow, and white.
Plant ranunculus tubers in the fall or early spring for a late spring bloom. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Ranunculus are ideal for borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Their delicate petals and vibrant colors create a stunning display, perfect for adding charm to garden spaces.
18. Sparaxis
Sparaxis, also known as harlequin flowers, are admired for their bright, cheerful blooms and striking patterns. They come in a range of colors, including red, orange, and white.
Plant sparaxis corms in the fall for a spring display. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Sparaxis are excellent for borders, rock gardens, or as cut flowers. Their unique appearance and vibrant hues make them a lively addition to any garden.
19. Tuberose
Tuberose is prized for its intoxicating fragrance and elegant, white blooms. These flowers are perfect for adding scent and beauty to your garden.
Plant tuberose bulbs in the spring for a summer to fall bloom. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun.
Tuberose is ideal for borders, containers, or as cut flowers. Their captivating scent and graceful appearance make them a cherished choice for gardeners seeking to add olfactory delight to their landscapes.
20. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, also known as the African lily, is loved for its striking spherical clusters of blue or white flowers.
Plant agapanthus bulbs in the spring or fall for a summer bloom. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Agapanthus are perfect for borders, containers, or as focal points in the garden. Their tall, elegant blooms add a touch of drama and beauty to any landscape.