We are approaching the window for planting summer-blooming bulbs, so it\u2019s time for planning<\/p>\n
Summer-blooming bulbs might be called \u201cspring-planted bulbs,\u201d just to be confusing.<\/p>\n
For clarity, geophytes, i.e., plants that have underground organs, are grouped in just two categories: spring-planted\/summer-blooming, and fall-planted\/spring-blooming.<\/p>\n
Because plants often do not always follow our categories strictly, blooming seasons include early, mid and late bloomers. Good catalogs and labels will identify a plants bloom season, for reference in planning extended periods of color in the garden.<\/p>\n
In the Monterey Bay area\u2019s moderate climate, summer bulbs could be planted anytime between February and April. It\u2019s now too late to plant spring-blooming bulbs.<\/p>\n
Many gardeners call all geophytes \u201cbulbs,\u201d but they actually include several kinds of specialized storage organs:<\/p>\n
Here is a sampling of popular summer-blooming \u201cbulbs:\u201d<\/p>\n
Consider planting uncommon \u201cbulbs,\u201d to bring variety into the garden:<\/p>\n
Planting guidelines for all geophytes: locate in full sun; select a well-drained bed (underground storage organs could rot in soggy soil); choose plants that are best for your climate; and amend with compost or aged manure for tallest, lushest and healthiest plants.<\/p>\n
When selecting plants, check the storage organ for good health. This check can be done easily with dormant bulbs, which might be marketed in plastic baggies, and small potted plants can be lifted gently from their pots to examine their health. If the organ looks black, unusually soft, or otherwise troubled, leave it behind and consider shopping elsewhere.<\/p>\n
Summer bulbs can be found now or in the next few weeks at local garden centers. As always, specialized mail order suppliers have online and printed catalogs with larger selections. Here are three to consider:<\/p>\n
Brent and Becky\u2019s<\/a> ((877) 661-2852)<\/p>\n McClure & Zimmerman<\/a> (800) 883-6998)<\/p>\n John Scheepers, Inc<\/a>. ((860) 567-0838<\/p>\n Prepare now for color in the summer garden. As always, planting in odd numbers of three or more\u2014if you have space\u2014creates the most attractive displays.<\/p>\n Enjoy your garden!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" We are approaching the window for planting summer-blooming bulbs, so it\u2019s time for planning Summer-blooming bulbs might be called \u201cspring-planted bulbs,\u201d just to be confusing. For clarity, geophytes, i.e., plants that have underground organs, are grouped in just two categories: … Continue reading