Early-Summer Bulbs
Winter Gardener : Episode TWG-125 -- More Projects »
To get a head start on summer bulbs, plant these garden favorites in indoor pots. Host John Cretti and horticulturist Kelly Grummons explain how begonias, caladiums, elephant ears and other summer bulbs planted in pots (and placed on a heat mat) will start to produce lush foliage.
- The lily (figure A) is one of the most favorite bulbs; start in early March for a June bloom.
- Canna is a dramatic plant, and grows well in a container.
- Dahlias are classic old-fashioned garden favorites that range from miniatures to tall-growing plants. Start early as a tuber in a container and by the time they are six to eight inches high, they will be ready for the garden.
- Caladiums (figure B) are classics for shade. They love to be in
wet, warm soil; the corms can be started early indoors. - Tuberous begonias (figure C) are the most spectacular of all begonias. Start the corms by planting them shallowly in a container. They should be kept warm and moist, but shouldn't be allowed to get too wet. Once they have sprouted and frost is gone, set them outside.
Planting Begonia Bulbs
- Start with a high-quality potting soil with sphagnum peat moss.
- Plant bulbs right side up--normally, rounded on the bottom and concave on the top.
- Plant the bulbs shallowly and cover them lightly, then moisten the soil.
Featured Plants
- red dahlia
- begonia
- tuberous begonia
- hanging begonia
- Crocosmia
- canna
- Lilium (hybrid)
- Lilium 'Littlegirl' 'Mona Lisa'
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