PLANT THESE BULBS NOW FOR SUMMER-BLOOMING TREASURES

When gardeners think of bulbs, they generally think of spring-blooming tulips and daffodils which are planted the preceding fall. There is a great selection of summer-blooming bulbs that can be planted now which offer colorful flowers, bold foliage and splendid fragrance. They can be accents or focal points. Blend them into the perennial border or use them in container plantings. During the excitement of spring plant shopping, don’t overlook those packages of summer bulbs - they can indeed become beautiful and rewarding summer flowers.

Summer bulbs are easy to grow. Plant them outside after the danger of frost has passed, usually about the third week of May in the Chicago area. Plant at the depth listed on the package and mix a slow release, balanced fertilizer into the soil. To get a head start, plant them in pots outdoors in April. Some nurseries also carry pots of started summer bulbs such as canna, caladium, begonias and agapanthus. Consider some of the following bulbs for this season’s garden.

Acidanthera or Peacock orchid is a member of the Iris family which is evident by its straplike leaves which grow to about 3 feet tall. The flower spikes each carry about 6 white blossoms, blotched with reddish-brown spots, that hover like white butterflies. It is a superb cut flower. This summer-blooming bulb has been known to "wow" visitors at The Chicago Botanic Garden each summer. Its delightful scent led to a common name of Fragrant Gladiolus. Like gladiolus, acidanthera corms need to be dug in the fall and stored over winter.

Another fragrant bulb which is often used in floral arrangements is Polianthes or Tuberose. The white, waxlike, tubular flowers are arranged in spiky clusters above grassy foliage reaching 2 feet tall. The fragrance is so outstanding it is used in the making of French perfume. This native of Mexico will not survive our winters here if not lifted in fall.

Agapanthus or Lily of the Nile is best known as a container plant because it flowers best when its roots are crowded. The clusters of blue or white flowers top a 20 inch leafless stalk that emerges from grasslike leaves. Its interesting foliage makes Agapanthus attractive even when not in flower. They can be kept in the same container for about 3 years before needing division. Reduce the water in fall and let them go dormant. Then store them in a cool area that will not freeze. In the spring, resume water, light and fertilizer.

Calla lilies have wonderful tropical foliage and long-lasting spathe flowers. They are available in white, yellow, pink and red. Some varieties have variegated or speckled foliage. Callas can be grown indoors as a houseplant, outdoors in containers or planted in the ground. They grow well at the edge of ponds. They prefer to go dormant for a few months a year, usually after flowering. Just reduce the water and let the foliage dry up. Store them where they won’t freeze.

Cannas are popular for their bold ornamental foliage and orchid-like flowers. Watch for the variety ‘Praetoria’ which features green and yellow variegated foliage and vibrant pumpkin-orange flowers. Cannas can be easily grown in containers, in wet soils or even in standing water - in full sun or partial shade. To overwinter, dig up the rhizomes after the foliage is killed by frost, allow to dry and store in a cool, dry location.

Buttercups is the common name for many of the species of Ranunculus due to their butter yellow flowers. Those sold as summer bulbs are usually sold as a mixture of yellow, white, pink and red. These bright-colored, fully double flowers are held above fernlike foliage growing 1 to 2 feet tall. Ranunculus are wonderful as container plants and cut flowers.

Most gardeners are familiar with dahlias, considered beloved, old-fashioned garden plants. There are many flower forms from which to choose - well beyond the dinner-plate size that may not fit into everyone’s garden scheme. Double, single, anemone, and pompom are just a few. Height can reach from 1 to 7 feet. If deadheaded regularly, dahlias will put on a colorful show throughout the summer. Dahlias must be lifted after frost has blackened the leaves. They should be stored in material such as peat moss or vermiculite in a dry location between 35 and 45 degrees. Check the tubers from time to time to be sure they are not drying out. If needed, moisten the packing medium lightly.

Gardeners who desire a steady supply of elegant cut flowers in summer can plant a succession of gladiolus. Either set aside an area where "glads" can be grown in rows specifically to be used for cut flowers or plant them in the perennial garden to add some vertical interest. The satin-textured flowers are available in a wide selection of colors, suitable for any garden or home interior. The ‘nanus’ types are shorter and generally available in white and shade of pink. Gladiolus bloom about 10 weeks after planting.

Lilies can be purchased in bulb form or as containerized plants. These are hardy bulbs that can remain in the garden over winter. Asiatic bulbs bloom in June and July, whereas, the Orientals flower in July and August. Popular varieties include ‘Stargazer’, crimson petals with white margins, and ‘Casa Blanca’, a pure white. Species lilies are also available such as the Regal and Tiger lily. Magnificent garden plants and cut flowers, lilies create a memorable impression.

Date: March 10, 1998
Author: Laura Widhalm