Summer Flowering Bulbs
Summer-flowering bulbs, like lilies, continue to be incredibly popular, both for the home and the garden. Whether you prefer elegant lilies or mixed flower bulb packs in a variety of colours, they’re perfect for creating a stunning sea of blooms in your garden or outdoor space. Many of these mixed packs are also ideal for attracting bees and butterflies, bringing even more vibrancy and life to your surroundings.
When to plant summer flowering bulbs in Ireland?
Summer-flowering bulbs are typically planted in the spring, once the soil has warmed up. In Ireland, the best time to plant summer-flowering bulbs is typically from late March to early May. This timing allows the soil to warm up enough after winter and ensures that the bulbs have enough time to establish roots before they start blooming in the summer.
Guidelines based on specific summer flowering bulbs
Here are a few guidelines based on specific summer flowering bulbs:
- Dahlias, Gladiolus, and Lilies: Plant in late April to early May, once the soil has warmed to at least 10°C (50°F).
- Begonias and Calla lilies: These can be planted a little later, around late May, as they prefer warmer temperatures to start growing.
It’s also good to wait until the risk of frost has passed, especially for tender bulbs. You can give them a head start by planting them in pots indoors a few weeks earlier and then transplanting them outdoors once the weather has warmed up.
Caring for summer-flowering bulbs
Caring for summer-flowering bulbs is relatively straightforward, but each type of bulb has specific needs. Here’s a general care guide for some popular summer-flowering bulbs like dahlias, gladiolus, and lilies:
Dahlias
- Planting: Plant dahlias in well-drained soil, preferably in a sunny spot. Space the bulbs around 12-18 inches apart, and plant them about 4-6 inches deep.
- Watering: Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Dahlias like moist soil, but not soggy conditions.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month after they begin to grow. You can also use slow-release fertilizers.
- Staking: Tall varieties need support as they grow, so use stakes or a cage to keep them upright.
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Pinch back the growing tips when they’re young to promote bushier growth.
- Overwintering: In Ireland’s colder climate, you’ll need to lift and store dahlia tubers after the first frost. Dry them out and store them in a cool, dry place until next spring.
Gladiolus
- Planting: Gladiolus bulbs should be planted in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant them 4-6 inches deep, and space them about 6-8 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil moderately moist but avoid soaking it. Gladiolus like regular watering, especially during their blooming period.
- Fertilizing: Use a high-potassium fertilizer, especially when the plants are starting to bloom. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can encourage too much foliage growth.
- Staking: Gladiolus can grow tall and may need staking to avoid falling over, particularly when they start flowering.
- Overwintering: Similar to dahlias, gladiolus corms need to be lifted after the first frost and stored in a dry, frost-free place for winter.
Lilies
- Planting: Lilies prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil and should be planted in a sunny spot. Plant them 4-6 inches deep with the pointed end facing up. Space them about 8-12 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water lilies at the base to avoid getting water on the petals, as it can cause rot.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Lily fertilizers with a higher potassium content are especially beneficial for flowers.
- Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to keep the plant looking neat and encourage more blooms.
- Overwintering: In colder climates, it’s best to mulch lilies with a layer of compost or straw to protect them during the winter.