Summer Flowering Bulbs

More About Summer Flowering Bulbs

Choosing the Right Summer Bulbs for Your Garden

The key to success with summer flowering is choosing the right bulbs for your space. Tall varieties such as gladioli and lilies excel at the back of borders, adding height and structure among shrubs and perennials. Compact dahlias and begonias shine at the front of borders or in containers, where their colour can be enjoyed up close.
Summer bulbs in containers are a brilliant choice for patios and balconies. They grow happily in pots, deliver impressive displays and can be moved into prime positions as they come into flower. Many summer bulbs for pots also suit mixed planting, allowing gardeners to combine colour, texture and foliage interest in a single container. Shadier gardens are not left out either. There are summer bulbs for shade, including begonias and certain lilies, which thrive away from strong midday sun while still producing plenty of colour.
Most summer bulbs prefer free-draining soil and a sunny or lightly shaded position. They cope well with typical UK conditions and, once established, many return reliably each year. This makes summer bulbs an excellent long-term investment for gardeners who want dependable performance without constant replanting.

Planting and Caring for Summer Flowering Bulbs

Plant summer bulbs once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Dig a hole around two to three times the depth of the bulb, position with the growing tip facing upwards, and backfill firmly. Water well after planting to help roots establish quickly. For containers, use a free-draining compost and ensure pots have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
During the growing season, summer bulbs appreciate regular watering, especially in dry spells. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser encourages stronger growth and more flowers, particularly for hungry plants such as dahlias and cannas. Removing spent blooms helps prolong flowering and keeps plants looking tidy.
Many perennial summer bulbs benefit from lifting and storing over winter in colder areas, while others can remain in the ground with a protective mulch. With minimal effort, summer bulbs will reward gardeners with weeks of colour, structure and seasonal excitement. Whether filling borders, brightening patios or creating eye-catching containers, summer flowering bulbs remain one of the most satisfying ways to enjoy summer flowering at its best.